Chin scritches
Getting to pet your kitty is one of the best parts of being a cat owner, but if you really want your feline friend to be comfortable, you need to pay attention to the signals they’re giving you about what kind of touch they like, says Dr Ochoa. “The truth is, most cats only like to be petted on their face and neck and do not like their feet, tail or body touched,” she explains. “Your cat will let you know if it is OK to pet them elsewhere.” And remember: just because their belly is showing, it’s not an invitation to touch it.
An a-‘lure’-ing toy
Your fluffy house cat may not look like a lethal hunter, but don’t be deceived: all cats are predators, and nothing brings them more joy than the opportunity to hunt, says Stemcosky. “Actively engaging with your cat in interactive play provides mental and physical enrichment,” she explains. “Using a quality ‘lure’ toy can make all the difference, as they move and feel like the real thing.”
Scratching posts that don’t match your furniture
Scratching is a basic feline instinct, so your cat needs you to provide appropriate things to scratch, Kavanaugh says. The trick is to make the scratching items different from your decor so your cat doesn’t get confused. “Don’t give them a carpeted cat tree and then not let them scratch your carpet,” she says. Instead, she recommends scratching posts or mats made from corrugated cardboard or sisal, as they are not items typically found in the home.