Adopting a cat is one of the best decisions in life for many people. It is a commitment that brings immense joy, companionship, and purring into your life. But how do you care for a cat properly, so it thrives both physically and mentally? As professionals at Tassu & Tassu pet hotel, we encounter cats daily and know that a happy cat is much more than just a fed cat. It is a family member that feels understood, engaged, and safe.
In this guide, we compile practical tips based on the daily work and experience of our trained animal caregivers.
The Basic Nature of Cats: Understanding the Predator on Your Sofa
It all starts with understanding a cat’s nature. A cat is essentially a small predator, and its instincts do not disappear even if it lives entirely indoors. Three traits define a cat: it is territorial, it is a hunter, and it is an extremely clean animal.
In our work at the cat hotel, we see this every day. A cat arriving in a new environment immediately surveys its surroundings: where are the safe hiding spots, where can it observe, where is the food, and where is the litter box? It needs its own safe territory. That is why we always allow the cat to settle into its own room peacefully and on its own terms.
When you understand these basic instincts, you can create an environment for your cat where it can express itself and feel secure.
Feeding – More Than Just Filling a Bowl
Proper feeding is the cornerstone of a cat’s health. A common mistake is to offer dry food continuously for convenience. However, cats are naturally poor drinkers and get a large portion of their required moisture from their food. Therefore, high-quality, meat-rich wet food is the foundation of a cat’s diet.
Based on our experience, the best model is:
- Main food: wet food: Offer high-quality, meaty wet food 2–3 times a day. This ensures adequate hydration and supports urinary tract health.
- Dry food for activation: Use dry food as a stimulus. Hide kibble in activation toys or around the house. This allows the cat to fulfil its hunting instincts.
- Water always available: Place several water bowls in different locations, but not right next to the food bowl. In the wild, cats do not eat and drink in the same place.
At Tassu & Tassu, our trained staff tailors each guest’s diet according to the owner’s instructions. We know that some cats are picky eaters and others have special dietary needs, and we ensure that everyone gets exactly what they need.
A Stimulating Environment is Key to Happiness
A safe and stimulating environment is the A and O of a cat’s happiness. Simply having floor space is not enough, as cats live in a three-dimensional world.
Check that your home includes these elements:
- Climbing opportunities: Cats love high places from which they can safely observe their territory. A sturdy, floor-to-ceiling cat tree is the best single investment. Wall-mounted shelves and platforms serve the same purpose.
- Scratching spots: Scratching is vital for a cat. It maintains their claws, marks their territory, and relieves stress. Provide various surfaces: a vertical post, a horizontal mat, or a cardboard scratching board. A common mistake is to place the scratching post hidden in a corner. Position it where the cat spends time, such as in the living room or along a central pathway.
- Hiding spots: Every cat needs a place where it can retreat completely in peace. This could be a cardboard box, the top of a cupboard, or under a bed. Never disturb a cat in its hiding place.
- Window spots: ”Cat TV,” or watching outside, is the best entertainment. Ensure that the cat has a safe spot on the windowsill where it can observe birds and people.
We designed the rooms in our cat hotel according to these principles. Each room features climbing levels, hiding spots, and opportunities for environmental observation to make the stay as stress-free as possible.
How to Care for a Cat Through Play and Activation?
Play is vital for a cat to express its hunting instincts, not just for fun. Without regular play, a cat can become frustrated, which may manifest as behavioural problems, such as destroying furniture or even aggression.
We prefer interactive play, where you are involved. Wand toys with feathers or ribbons are excellent. Remember the play sequence: chase → catch → ”kill.” Allow the cat to catch the prey at the end and reward it with a treat. This mimics the natural hunting cycle and is extremely satisfying for the cat.
A few short play sessions of 5–15 minutes each day are much more effective than one long session once a week. Our caregivers read the cat’s body language and tailor playtime to each individual – whether it is a shy rescue cat or an energetic kitten.
Health and Hygiene: Prevention is the Best Care
Basic health care for cats is straightforward, as long as a few fundamentals are in place.
Litter Box ABC
Most indoor litter box issues stem from the litter box itself. The rule of thumb is simple: one box per cat, plus one extra. If you have one cat, you need two boxes. If you have two cats, there should be three boxes. The boxes must be located in different places, not next to each other.
Clean the box regularly. Remove clumps at least once a day, change the litter, and wash the box thoroughly on a regular basis. As a clean animal, a cat does not want to use a dirty toilet.
Grooming Fur and Claws
Short-haired cats usually groom themselves, but regular brushing reduces loose hair and prevents hairballs. Long-haired cats require daily brushing to prevent tangles.
It is advisable to trim the claws if the cat does not wear them down sufficiently. Get the cat accustomed to the procedure from a young age. At Tassu & Tassu, we can also trim claws during the stay as an additional service if it feels challenging at home.
What to Do When the Owner Goes on Holiday?
Planning a holiday raises concerns for many cat owners: who will take care of the cat? Is it enough for the neighbour to come once a day?
Our experience has shown that a short daily visit is not enough to meet a cat’s social or stimulation needs. A cat left alone may feel insecure and anxious. A professional pet hotel is often the best and safest option, especially for longer holidays.
At Tassu & Tassu, the cat receives continuous care and stimulation in a safe environment. Each cat has its own quiet room, and our trained caregivers spend time with the cats, play with them, and monitor their well-being around the clock. We can also administer medications and care for pets with special needs.
Our location in Helsinki, along the Raide-Jokeri line and next to the train station, makes us an easy stop, for example, on the way to the airport or the harbour. You can easily drop off your cat for care and pick it up upon your return.
The well-being of cats is close to our hearts. If you are planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Let’s discuss together what would be the best solution for your cat. You can explore our services and book a care period directly from our website.
Book a care period for your cat or contact us to ask for more information!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I play with my cat?
At least two interactive play sessions of 10–15 minutes each day is a good goal. This helps to release the cat’s hunting energy and strengthens your bond. Consistency is more important than the length of a single play session. Morning and evening are often the most active times for cats and thus the best moments for play.
Is dry food harmful to cats?
Dry food is not inherently harmful, but it should not be the only source of nutrition for a cat. A cat’s natural thirst drive is weak, and a cat fed solely on dry food is at risk of dehydration and urinary tract problems. Use dry food as a stimulus and supplement, but keep high-quality wet food as the foundation of the diet.
Why does my cat scratch the sofa instead of the scratching post?
There are usually two reasons for this: the scratching post is the wrong type or in the wrong place. Ensure that the post is tall and sturdy enough for the cat to stretch fully. Place it in a visible spot where the cat spends time – not hidden in a corner. You can also try different materials, such as sisal, cardboard, or carpet.
How do I know if my cat is happy?
A happy cat can be recognised by its relaxation and curiosity. Its body language is relaxed: tail held high (often with a slight curve at the tip), eyes calmly squinted, and ears facing forward. A happy cat plays, eats well, uses the litter box, and seeks your company on its own terms. Purring and head-butting are also clear signs of affection and contentment.
Can two cats share the same litter box?
We do not recommend this. Cats are territorial even when it comes to toilet matters and generally do not want to share their litter box. Sharing can lead to stress and litter box issues. The rule of thumb is to have at least one box per cat and one extra. Place the boxes in different areas of the home to give the cats options.
How do I acclimatise my cat to travelling or a care facility?
Acclimatisation should start well in advance. Keep the transport crate visible as part of the decor, so it is not a frightening object that is only brought out for vet visits. Place blankets and treats inside. When bringing your cat for care, take along something familiar and comforting, such as its own blanket or toy. At our facility, caregivers always allow the cat to settle in at its own pace.