What many purr-ents don’t understand is how much movement their cats need. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, if you pay enough attention to your cat’s activity levels, you will avoid possible long-term issues.

Here’s how you can make sure your cat is getting solid amounts of exercise.

How Much Exercise Do Cats Need?

Most cats need an hour of activity a day, or sometimes more, though it depends on their age. Kittens need nonstop exercise, while adult cats are different, needing about 30 minutes of daily exercise to keep them healthy. Senior cats might need as few as 15 minutes of activity to remain in good condition.

Numbers aren’t fixed, though, as age, breed, lifestyle, gender, and personality all play a role. Some cats are fine with short bursts of play, while others require a more intense and structured activity.

In the outdoors, cats stay active through hunting and that instinct doesn’t disappear just because a cat lives indoors. Outdoor cats move a lot more, but indoor cats can still get a lot of exercise with the right setup and environment, even if the place is smaller or tight.

Normal Cat Activity Levels for Indoor Cats

What it looks like:

• Low Activity – short bursts, mostly lounging, minimal engagement
• Normal Activity – 2 to 3 play sessions, chasing toys, climbing, exploring
• High Activity – high-energy play, zoomies, climbing, hunting-style behavior

🐾 Most healthy indoor cats’ activity levels should fall in the 20 to 40 minute range daily, split into short sessions. Anything below that consistently is where boredom and weight gain problems start to show up.

Normal Cat Activity levels by Age

What is the type of behavior pattern:

• Kittens – constant bursts of energy, frequent play, high curiosity
• Young Adults – peak energy, playful, needs structured activity
• Adults – balanced routine, shorter play sessions
• Seniors – slower movement, less intense play, more rest

🐾 Activity drops with age, but it should never hit zero because a lazy cat isn’t always normal. Sometimes it is just an under-stimulated one so pay close attention to how many times your furry baby plays.

Why is it Important for Cats to be Active?

The reason why it is very important for cats to be active is because it directly affects your cat’s physical and mental health and well-being.

When cats do not get enough activity, the effects show up fast. Weight gain, low energy, behavioral issues, are just a few that stack up and over time might turn into serious health problems, making them harder and more expensive to fix.

For these reasons, it is important for your furry baby to balance regular and normal activity levels. It supports their body, sharpens their mind, and gives them an opportunity for zoomies and to blow off steam.

Health & Physical Benefits

Regular activity has numerous health benefits for your furry baby, including:

• Burn calories and maintain a healthy weight
• Reduce the risk of obesity-related issues like diabetes and arthritis
• Build and maintain muscle strength, especially important for older cats

Moreover, exercise improves overall flexibility and mobility, making active cats less likely to become sluggish, stiff, or prone to injuries.

It also supports better circulation and digestion, which can play a vital role in your cat’s overall health. Simply put, a cat that moves regularly tends to stay healthier for longer.

Mental & Stimulation Benefits

Stimulation and mental health is just as important as physical well-being and exercise can engage your cat the right way. A normal cat activity level helps to:

• Reduce stress, anxiety, and restlessness
• Prevent destructive behaviors like scratching furniture or chewing
• Keep your cat alert, engaged, and easier to manage

Cats’ natural instincts are to hunt, change, and explore, and when they don’t have an outlet, it can show up as frustration.

Regular play gives your cat a way to release that built-up energy in a controlled and healthy way. It also strengthens the bond between you and your cat, making them more responsive and less likely to develop behavioral issues.

How to Exercise Your Cat

The best way to exercise your cat is to find out what they actually enjoy. Many cats might want to play on their own, while others won’t move unless you are involved.

Timing is also important, as cats sleep a lot during the day and might be active at dawn or dusk, so that’s when play sessions tend to work best.

If your furry baby is not moving a lot, it might not be laziness, but a lack of stimulation. To avoid this, here are a few practical ways to get them active:

• Interactive toys – motion-activated toys keep cats engaged without needing you every time
• Wand toys – these are some of the most effective tools you can use as they trigger your cat’s hunting instincts and create real interaction, which also strengthens your bond
• Cat trees and vertical spaces – climbing, jumping, and perching mimic outdoor behavior is a very good activity for your furry baby
• Scratching posts and mats – scratching is also movement and helps with muscle use and overall activity, while saving your furniture at the same time
• Exercise wheels – for high-energy cats, a wheel can provide a serious outlet, though be wary as some cats might not use it
• Multi-level environments – adding ramps, shelves, or elevated walkways turns your home into a more dynamic space that naturally encourages movement
• Controlled outdoor access – if it is possible, a safe outdoor setup or catios give your cat more space to explore without the risks

Conclusion

A normal activity level is all about giving your furry baby enough stimulation and movement to stay balanced and healthy. When your cat is active, everything improves, from their mood, to their weight, behavior, and overall health. Therefore, pay close attention to their habits and make play part of their routine as this small effort is enough to make a noticeable difference every single day.

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Overweight cats are more likely to develop issues like urinary problems, joint pain, or diabetes. On the other side, unexpected weight loss can also signal there is something seriously wrong going on under the surface.

With that in mind, please pay attention to your cat’s weight and make note of any sudden changes, so you can easily correct them before they turn into a bigger problem.

What is a Healthy Weight for Cats?

A healthy weight for cats is a range between 8 and 12 pounds (3.5 to 5.5 kilograms), though weight alone is not enough to measure health and well-being.

For example, two cats can weigh the same and look totally different, depending on the following:

• Body Frame Size
• Muscle Mass
• Breed and Genetics

For these reasons, the best way to know if your furry baby is at a healthy weight range, is to look beyond the scale. A veterinarian can assess your cat’s overall weight condition and help you dial in on the ideal weight for them.

Regular checkups also make it easier to catch gradual weight gain or loss before it becomes a serious problem.

4 Factors That Influence the Ideal Weight for Cats

Here is the reality that most cat purr-ents do not realize. About 61% of all cats are either obese or overweight and this is far from a small issue.

This is a widespread problem as extra weight puts serious strain on your furry baby’s body, increasing the risk of:

• Diabetes
• Urinary disease
• Arthritis
• Reduced lifespan

However, being underweight is not harmless either. Lower weight than normal can point to a different issue, such as illness, health concerns, or poor nutrition.

Now, while 8 to 12 pounds (3.5 to 5.5 kilograms) is an ideal weight for cats and a solid guideline, other factors influence how healthy your cat is, and they include age, gender, breed, and medical history.

Let’s break down each and dive into the details:

1. Age

A cat’s weight changes with every stage of life, it is never static. Kittens grow fast, especially within the first few months, which means that rapid weight gain is normal for them.

After that, growth usually slows down between the first 6 to 12 months, and by around year one, they reach their full size.

This is where most problems often start.

As cats move into adulthood, their metabolism slows down and their lifestyle becomes more relaxed. Less activity plus the same feeding habits equals weight gain in adult cats.

Senior cats, on the other hand, flip the script entirely. Instead of gaining weight, they are more likely to lose weight due to conditions like hyperthyroidism or kidney disease.

Sometimes you may see unexplained weight loss in older cats, which is why regular vet checkups are a must, especially as our furry babies grow older.

Cat Weight Chart by Age

2. Gender

Gender plays a key role in weight gain or loss because of biology – male cats are usually larger than female cats.

This means that a healthy weight for male cats and female cats may vary. The general range for both also sits around the 8 to 12 pound mark (3.5 to 5.5 kilograms), though male cats often tend to land on the higher end, especially if they were not neutered early in their life stage. Female cats tend to be smaller and lighter, but breed and body frame play a role too.

With that in mind, do not compare both blindly, just look at your cat as an individual to determine the ideal weight.

3. Breed

Every cat is different and breed plays a very big role in what a healthy weight should look like for each.

Smaller, leaner breeds like the Abyssinian cat can be perfectly healthy at just 6 to 8 pounds (2.5 to 3.5 kilograms). Larger breeds on the other hand, like the Maine Coon, can easily exceed 20 pounds (9 kilograms) and still be in great shape.

Comparing your cat to a genetic average without considering their breed is a mistake as structure matters more than numbers on a scale.

Cat Weight Chart by Breed

4. Spayed/Neutered

Things change quickly after spaying/neutering a cat as they might rapidly gain weight. Hormone levels drop, appetite goes up, and suddenly, your furry baby is more prone to gaining weight.

If you keep feeding them the same way after this, then gaining weight is almost always a guarantee.

In most cases, cats need about 30% fewer calories after the procedure, so be sure not to ignore this to avoid setting up your cat for long-term weight issues.

The fix is pretty straightforward:

• Adjust portion sizes
• Get spayed/neutered cat food
• Monitor weight regularly
• Stay consistent with vet checkups

How to Keep a Healthy Weight for Cats

When it comes to keeping a healthy weight for cats, your vet should always be your first checkpoint. What you do at home is what will actually keep your cat in shape on a daily basis, so here are a few pointers to get you started:

1. Fix the Diet Right

Nutrition is where everything starts in life and cats are no exception. Work with your vet to choose the right food for your cat’s age, weight, and overall health. If your cat needs to lose or maintain weight, then focus on high-quality food with lean protein to support muscle.

Lastly, ingredients matter a lot, so when you choose cat food, make sure there are fewer ingredients within the cat food and there is a sole protein source, instead of multiple. A wrong diet will undo everything else you are trying to fix.

2. Stop Free-Feeding

Many cats might eat out of boredom, not hunger, so if you leave food out all day, you might overfeed your furry baby.

It will all depend on your cat’s preferences and needs during the day. For example, we leave food out all day long for our Kiki and Lily and they would eat only what they need or if they feel hungry, and never too much.

It is important to see how they behave and then adjust your feeding schedule accordingly. You can do the following:

• Measure portions and stick to set meal times
• Split food into smaller meals throughout the day
• Use puzzle feeders or slow feeders to make meals last longer

This alone can fix a lot of weight gain or loss problems without changing anything or straying away from their routine.

3. Make Them Move

This is a must! Cats won’t exercise on their own, so you have to make sure they are active throughout the day.

A few short interactive playtime activities and play sessions each day can make a huge difference. Make sure to focus on:

• Wand toys and laser pointers for active chasing
• Interactive toys if you’re not always available
• Occasional outdoor time with supervision for extra stimulation

Even 15 to 20 minutes of real activity can help prevent weight gain and keep your cat mentally sharp.

4. Control the Treats

Regular treats can add up weight really fast and people underestimate this a lot. We have noticed huge changes in our Kiki and Lily’s behavior when we are giving them treats and wet food and how that affects them.

So, keep treats under control with these few tips:

• Limit them to no more than 10% of daily calories
• Avoid constant reward feeding
• Use play or attention as a reward instead when possible

Wrapping Up

Keeping your cat at a healthy weight is all about consistency, awareness, and making the right daily choices. Proper nutrition and portion control, combined with healthy activity levels and habits, can go a long way to keeping your cat in an ideal weight range.

Weight changes rarely happen overnight and ignoring this can lead to long-term health issues. Therefore, pay attention, adjust when needed, and have a general range of how much your cat should weigh.

Ideally, a healthy weight for cats would fall into the 8 to 12 pounds range (3.5 to 5.5 kilograms), though don’t always stress if your furry baby is slightly lower or higher than this range. Age, gender, breed, and life stage all account for how much your cat should weigh. When you get the basics right, your cat stays active, comfortable, and far less likely to run into preventable health issues down the line.

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They are natural predators, so they conserve energy between short bursts of activity. Rest is what keeps them alert, sharp, and ready to pounce when it matters.

However, if you feel like your furry baby is always sleeping, you are not wrong. The key is to know what is normal and when that extra sleep may point to something else.

How Much Do Cats Sleep Per Day?

During the day, a healthy adult cat can sleep anywhere between 12 and 16 hours, especially if they are alone in the home. While this may sound extreme, especially since we sleep far less, in essence it is not once you understand how cats operate.

Staying alert, hunting, or playing all burn energy fast, even for indoor cats, who are wired the same way. They rely on frequent rest to recharge.

How Much Do Cats Sleep by Age?

Age also plays a role as kittens need the most sleep, sometimes up to 20 hours a day as they grow. Adult cats settle into a steady routine, while senior cats often sleep more as their activity levels drop.

Cats don’t have fixed sleeping habits and they change as they grow, slow down, or adapt to their lifestyle. Age is a big factor in determining how many hours a day a cat sleeps, so make sure to understand these stages as they will help you spot if something feels off.

Let’s see how much sleep you expect your furry baby to get depending on their life stage:

Breakdown of How Much Do Cats Sleep by Life Stage

Why Do Cats Sleep So Much – 5 Possible Reasons

Sleep habits vary depending on diet, lifestyle, breed, indoor vs outdoor, and how much stimulation they get during the day. There is no exact number for every cat and it all comes down to the surroundings and way of life.

Bored cats will often sleep more to pass the time, while active cats tend to stay more balanced. Indoor and outdoor cats might have different sleeping cycles and patterns as well.

So if your furry baby appears to sleep more than usual, here are a few reasons behind it:

1. Boredom

Oftentimes, your cat might not be tired, just bored. Yes, cats do sleep when they are bored as they don’t get enough stimulation.

This might seem harmless, but can often lead to issues like these:

• Destructive behavior around the house
• Constant meowing or attention-seeking
• Over-grooming or obsessive habits

To avoid this from happening and keep your cat engaged, focus on:

• Vertical spaces like cat trees, shelves, and scratching posts
• Puzzle feeders or interactive toys
• Daily play sessions, even if it’s just 10 to 15 minutes

If you are often away from home, introducing a second cat might help, but only if the introduction is done properly. We learned this the right way when we introduced Lily to our already grown Kiki and what we had to do to get them to accept each other.

2. Catnaps

Cats usually take short naps throughout the day and they often last 15 to 30 minutes. These little catnaps let them rest without fully switching off, so they can instantly react if something catches their attention.

This is a cat’s built-in survival trait that keeps them alert even while resting. So, if you were wondering how much sleep do cats get, it usually is in shorter intervals, as opposed to thinking they sleep for long, uninterrupted hours like we humans do.

3. Conserving Energy

Cats burn energy very fast when they hunt, play, or explore, even if they are indoor cats. They need frequent rest to recover and is also the reason behind why indoor cats sleep so much, especially if they are very engaged in playtime activities.

After taking a nap, don’t be surprised if your furry baby suddenly:

• Sprints across the room for no reason
• Climbs furniture like it’s a jungle gym
• Locks onto a toy like it’s real prey

This burst of energy is exactly what their sleep is preparing them for. We noticed this in our second baby, Lily, as she would often go wild after taking a nap.

4. Stress or Anxiousness

Cats are sensitive to changes in routine and stress can show up quickly in their behavior, particularly in sleeping patterns.

So, if your cat starts to sleep more than usual, it could be due to the following:

• New people or pets in the home
• Changes in routine, like feeding times
• Environmental shifts, like moving or rearranging spaces

While it is good to switch up the routine every now and then, it is best to keep things as normal and the same as possible. Sleep is how they cope and it is easy to miss this little detail if you’re not paying attention.

5. Injury or Sickness

Lastly, sometimes the reason might be health related. A cat sleeping more than usual might mean they are dealing with an injury or pain, and will often rest more to recover.

Health issues might include:

• Muscle strains or ligament injuries
• Wounds or infections
• Joint pain or arthritis, especially in older cats

Moreover, certain health conditions can increase sleep, such as:

• Hyperthyroidism
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease
• Heart or liver disease
• Cancer

That said, if you notice any of these warning signs, like low energy, appetite changes, weight loss, or stiffness, do not wait or hesitate! Get your furry baby checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Conclusion

A cat that sleeps a lot isn’t unusual, though changes in sleep patterns are a sign that things are getting serious.

Even though boredom often plays a factor, it can sometimes be caused by stress, pain, or sickness. Make sure to pay attention to these signs and act immediately.

When you understand what is normal for your furry baby, it will be much easier to spot if something is off. Cats usually sleep more than 12 hours a day, so stay aware and keep them physically and mentally engaged.

These are one of the simplest ways to protect your cat’s health and well-being without overcomplicating matters.

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A well maintained litter box keeps bad odors away, helps prevent health issues, and keeps your furry baby consistent in their habits.

Let’s break down how often you need to scoop, when to fully replace litter, and what are the clear signs that it is time for a change.

How Often to Change Cat’s Litter

First things first, you need to know that not all cat litter works the same and this is where most people get it wrong. What type of cat litter you use plays a direct role in how often you are going to need to fully change it.

With that in mind, one rule never changes, and that is that you need to scoop and clean your cat’s litter every single day.

Here’s a breakdown of how often to replace different types of cat litter so you don’t end up guessing.

What Actually Affects How Often You Should Change Cat Litter

There is no universal schedule for cleaning your cat’s litter box, as your setup, your cat, and your home all affect this.

What really moves the needle is the following:

1. Number of Cats – more cats means more waste, faster odor buildup, and more frequent changes
2. Litter Box Size – smaller boxes fill up faster and most people underestimate how much that matters
3. Litter Quality – cheap litter breaks down quickly and stops controlling odor, while higher-quality options last longer because they clump better and trap smells more effectively
4. Airflow – good ventilation slows down odor, while cramped, closed-off spaces make everything worse
5. Your Cat’s Habits – some cats are clean and predictable, others kick litter everywhere or seem to have the worst timing possible.

These are the 5 essential elements that greatly affect the nature of cleaning and frequency of changing a litter box. Now, let’s see the most common signs that it is time to fully change your cat’s litter.

Signs That It’s Time to Change the Litter Completely

Even if you are scooping on a daily basis, there comes a point when the litter is done for. If you ignore this, problems may pile up, so watch out for these signs:

• Lingering odor that doesn’t go away after scooping
• Litter that looks damp, dark, or broken down
• Waste sticking to the bottom or sides of the box
• Excessive scratching or digging
• Avoiding the litter box or going outside of it
• More tracking and mess around the box

All of these are not minor inconveniences, they are a clear signal that you have pushed it too far. When this happens, make sure to change the litter completely and reset the box before it turns into a bigger issue.

Why Regular Litter Changes Matter for Overall Health

Scooping daily helps, but it’s not enough on its own. If you let the litter sit for too long, you are creating a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites.

Cat waste can carry things like roundworms and toxoplasmosis, which can also spread to humans. On top of that, poor litter hygiene can contribute to infections that may affect both you and your furry baby.

For cats specifically, a dirty litter box can lead to:

• Urinary tract infections
• Feline interstitial cystitis (FIC)
• Bladder stones and urine crystals
• Stress-related behavior issues

These are not minor issues, they can be very painful, serious, and often expensive to treat. If you do notice signs like straining, blood in urine, vomiting, low energy, or even appetite loss, don’t wait or hesitate. Get your cat checked by a vet immediately.

Other Factors That Can Force You to Change Litter More Often

Even if your setup is right and you have a solid routine, some situations will push you to reset the litter box more frequently, such as the following:

• Multiple cats using the same box
• Cats that urinate more often than usual
• Smaller litter boxes that fill up quickly
• Warm or humid environments that speed up odor buildup
• Cats that dig aggressively or track litter everywhere

If your household has more than one cat, you will probably need to scoop more than once a day and replace the litter more often.

We have two big closed-top litter boxes for both Kiki and Lily and we scoop once a day and sometimes we do it twice a day, depending on how active our furry babies are. There are no shortcuts here.

Summary

Changing your cat’s litter regularly is all about preventing problems before they arise. When the litter box is clean, your cat stays consistent, there are no bad smells in your home, and you avoid unnecessary stress.

Failure to often change cat litter can turn small issues into bigger ones quite quickly. So, pick a routine and stick to it, adjust when necessary, and always treat litter maintenance for what it is, a basic part of keeping your cat healthy.

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We know that changing your furry baby’s litter box is the least favorite activity. Do know that skipping it should never be an option as a clean litter box keeps your cat comfortable, reduces accidents, and makes your home a lot more livable.

Now, let’s dive into the details and see how best you can approach this least popular task.

Litter Box Choice, Cleaning Supplies & Preparation

To start things off, if your overall setup is bad, you will hate the process. On the other hand, if it is right, it will take only a few minutes, so let’s start with the basics.

You need to get the following things right:

• Litter Box
• Cat Litter
• Location
• Litter Scoop
• Litter Waste Bags

And for deep cleaning:

• Disposable Gloves
• Baking Soda or Deodorizer
• Sponge or Brush
• Dish Soap
• Paper Towels

1. Choose the Right Litter Box

The litter box should be at least as long as your cat from nose to tail, easy to open up and clean, and very sturdy.

Open-top designs are best for kittens and younger adult cats who are not yet grown too big. They offer a better airflow and visibility that allow cats to view their surroundings and pounce quickly once they finish.

Closed-top designs are best for adult cats and senior cats as they provide shelter-like form so they can easily do their business. These types usually come with filters to trap and cover the smell.

In any case, one of the best ways to clean a litter box is to pick a non-stick base. These can make your life easier, though first ensure that your cat won’t avoid the box.

2. Choose the Right Cat Litter

This part is equally important as there are cats that like scented litter while others prefer unscented. Cats usually don’t like heavily perfumed litter, so make sure to avoid it and go for options like corn, cassava, or tofu since these are easier to clean.

We found out that our Kiki and Lily like lightly scented litter, so we make sure to get Lavender scented litter with small particles and mix it with a non-scented normal-sized granules litter for best effect. Their poop and pee form into solid clumps, which makes it very easy for us to scoop up and clean.

3. Pick the Right Location

Location is extremely important for cats so they can often use the litter box and not break away from their habits. Make sure to put the litter box in a quiet and low-traffic area of your room where your furry baby can access it all the time. This can help you to easily clean the litter box due to access to your tools and waste disposal units.

Additionally, if you can create an enclosed drawer where the litter box will be hidden from plain sight but easy to access, that would be the most ideal scenario for your cat. Most importantly, keep the litter box away from your cat’s food and sleeping spots.

4. Get Your Cleaning Setup Ready

Now, the next things you need to prepare are your supplies and tools to use for cleaning the litter box. Make sure to have everything within reach and this is why an enclosed litter box drawer is a fantastic choice.

With that in mind, make sure to have the following:

• A sturdy litter scoop with tight slots that catch clumps but let clean litter fall through
• Waste bags or a small trash bag for quick disposal
• A covered trash can nearby to control odor
• Fresh litter for topping up
• Disposable gloves if you want go for a deep clean
• Baking soda or deodorizer for odor control
• A dedicated sponge or brush just for the litter box
• Dish soap and paper towels or a towel for deeper cleaning

🐾 Even though many would say that you can flush down some types of litter, we would recommend not doing this as it is not safe everywhere or with the type of litter you use. Our suggestion would be to use waste bags and a covered trash can where you can put the litter after cleaning.

How to Clean a Litter Box Daily

At minimum, you should be cleaning your litter box at least once a day. Cats prefer a clean space and if the box gets too dirty, they might avoid it.

To go one step further, you can even create a routine of cleaning it at the same period. This will go hand-in-hand with your cat’s habits as they love to have everything in order at any point in the day.

Moreover, daily scooping keeps the odor under control, so your home doesn’t end up smelling like a litter box.

How you scoop depends on the type of litter you’re using:

• Clumping Litter – remove solid waste and clumps, making sure to scoop all the way to the bottom. Give the scoop a light shake so clean litter falls back in and nothing gets wasted.
• Non-Clumping Litter – remove solid waste, then stir the remaining litter so it can absorb moisture more evenly.
• Wood Pellets (with a sifting box) – scoop solids and stir the pellets so wet ones break down into sawdust. Every few days, give the box a shake to help the sawdust fall through.

Once you’re done, seal the waste in a bag and toss it in a covered trash can. Then wash your hand thoroughly every single time.

How to Deep Clean a Litter Box

Deep cleaning is something that should happen once a month, so think of it as a full reset. This means dumping everything, getting rid of built-up odors, leftover residue, and anything that daily scoops miss.

Starting a fresh process looks like this:

• Empty all the litter into a trash bag
• Scrape off any stuck residue
• Wipe out loose dust with a damp paper towel
• Wash the box with hot water and a small amount of mild, unscented soap
• Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely
• Refill with about 3 to 4 inches of fresh litter
• Change filters if you use closed-top litter boxes

A step-by-step process will look like this:

Step #1 – Scoop the Waste

First, remove all clumps and solid waste using a scoop and toss everything into a bag. Scrape everything off the base and the sides of the litter box, then add a layer of baking soda to help control the odor.

Step #2 – Wash the Box

Next, empty the litter completely and rinse the box with hot water. This alone will do most of the work, though for a deeper clean, add a small amount of dish soap and scrub the base and the sides of the box. Feel free to add vinegar to deal with lingering smells or bacteria, just make sure not to overdo it.

Step #3 – Dry and Refill

Lastly, dry the box with paper towels and make sure to throw away everything you use, sealed in a waste bag, and into another sturdier disposable bag. Then, sprinkle a little soda on the bottom and refill the litter box with new clean litter.

Bonus Tip – Litter Box Cleaning Hacks

Here’s a quick tip – skip harsh chemicals and heavily scented cleaners as these leave smells behind that your cat won’t like or tolerate. Keep it simple, especially if you’re dealing with lingering odors or some stubborn stains.

Cleaning the inside of a litter box is one thing, but cleaning everything around is another. Cats naturally track litter on their paws when they exit the litter box or when they kick it out when digging, so they might leave trails outside of the box.

Here’s what actually helps when this happens:

• Add a Litter Mat – a good mat catches loose litter before it spreads across your floor
• Keep Cleaning Tools Nearby – even with the best setup, you’ll still need to sweep or vacuum regularly
• Use Low-Tracking Litter – pellet or low-dust options tend to stay in the box better
• Choose the Right Box – high-sided boxes help contain scatter, while covered or top-entry boxes can reduce mess but aren’t always comfortable for every cat

Wrapping Up

A clean litter box shapes your cat’s comfort, overall health and hygiene, and behavior. So when the setup is right and the routine is consistent, you will spend less time dealing with bad odors, accidents, or unnecessary stress.

Moreover, your cat will stay relaxed, predictable, and very easy to manage. This is one of those small habits that pays off every single day, for both you and your cat.

We hope this article was helpful and assists you in how to clean the litter box with ease.

Happy cleaning!

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Most cats use the litter box multiple times per day, with age, hydration, diet, and stress influencing that pattern.

This is one of those topics that many purr-ents rarely think about or discuss, until something feels off. So, let’s dive into the details and see how frequently cats use the litter box.

Cat’s Health & Litter Box Frequency Usage

Cats are very consistent with their habits, and on average, the frequency in which your cat should use the litter box ranges from as little as 1 time per day up to 6 times. That said, this range isn’t just a random number as it depends on age, hydration, diet, and overall health and well-being.

Kittens and senior cats tend to use the litter box more often than adult cats, who would usually settle for a consistent routine. It is important to monitor the frequency as it is the best and most powerful way to track your furry baby’s overall health.

Small changes, such as behavior, frequency, or amount of litter can show up before the obvious symptoms.

The best way to notice if something is off with your cat’s health, it is the litter box habits. Most common issues may include the following:

• Urinary tract infections, where your cat may strain or make frequent trips with little output
• Kidney disease, which often shows up as increased thirst and more frequent urination early on
• Diabetes, leading to excessive drinking and constant trips to the box
• Digestive problems like constipation or diarrhea that disrupt normal use

These are not minor problems and you should never ignore them as they can escalate quite quickly if not addressed. This is why regular vet visits are necessary as veterinarians can pay close attention to litter box patterns.

How Often Do Cats Use The Litter Box?

The Cornell Feline Health Center states that healthy adult cats have a very predictable pattern that looks like this:

• Urination – 2 to 4 times per day
• Bowel Movement – 1 to 2 times per day

Consistency is what matters most, though sometimes a little variation is quite normal. We’ve noticed that our Kiki visits the litter box at least 4 to 5 times per day. We ensure to clean the litter boxes each day at the same hour.

🐾 If your cat suddenly starts going a lot more or a lot less than usual, this is a sign to pay attention and maybe visit the vet.

How Often Do Kittens Use The Litter Box?

Kittens are different from adult cats as their metabolism is faster and they have smaller bladders. This means frequent trips to the litter box with usually smaller litter.

For kittens, these are the normal numbers:

• Urination – 5 to 6 times per day
• Bowel Movement – 2 to 3 times per day

As kittens grow, so do the number of times they visit the litter box during the day. Our Lily, which just recently grew into an adult cat, did so exactly the same. There is one funny comparison to Kiki that we noticed and it was that Lily’s litter was so small that we instantly knew that was hers.

🐾 If a kitten skips the litter box for more than 12 hours, this is something to act on as it could point to dehydration or a different issue.

How Often Do Senior Cats Use The Litter Box?

Senior cats tend to change habits as they age, which is quite normal, though these shifts can go either way.

For senior cats, there are no fixed number of times they use the litter box, so instead, pay attention to this:

• Lower Frequency – they use the litter box less often because of lower food and water intake
• Higher Frequency – they use the litter box more often because of conditions like hyperthyroidism or kidney disease

Senior cats are more vulnerable to chronic health problems and this is where consistency matters more than basic numbers. Pay attention to frequency and consistency, especially in times of the day when senior cats usually use the litter box.

🐾 Small changes can be early warning signs and catching them as early as possible can make a big difference.

Factors That Influence Frequency of Use

A cat’s routine and litter box habits are not random. They are shaped by everyday factors like diet, hydration, comfortability in the environment, and safety above all. When there is a change, there is also a pretty good reason behind it.

Most common factors that can influence this include:

• Age – kittens and senior cats tend to have less predictable habits than healthy adults
• Diet – what your cat eats affects digestion and overall frequency
• Hydration – more water intake usually means more frequent urination
• Health – issues like urinary infections or kidney disease can quickly change normal patterns

The most important aspect is to know what is normal for your cat and to pay attention when something shifts. Here are the 3 most important factors that can affect how your furry baby uses the litter box:

1. Diet and Water Intake

What your cat eats and how much water it drinks play a big role. Cats on wet food tend to urinate more often because wet food is high in moisture, which is a good thing. Essentially, cats should pee as often as 2 to 4 times in 24 hours.

Proper hydration supports urinary health and helps lower the risk of crystals, which is among the most common causes of urinary issues in cats.

2. Stress, Environment, and Territory

Cats are very sensitive to changes and stress can creep up fast in their litter box habits. Introducing a second cat, moving to a new place, or even a tiny routine shift can throw them off. Many cats avoid the litter box when this happens as they don’t feel safe. Sometimes, though, a cat only uses the litter box twice a day, in which case they make the extra effort to use the litter box, while not falling prey to the surroundings.

Here’s a simple rule you can follow – have one litter box per cat, plus an additional one as extra, then keep the litter boxes in a quiet and low-stress area.

3. Medical Issues to Watch For

Sometimes, the main cause can be medical. Frequent urination can point to problems like urinary tract infections or even diabetes. Visiting the litter box less frequently can also be linked to kidney issues or dehydration.

On the flip side, a cat only uses the litter box once a day may mean it has issues with constipation. Moreover, digestive problems like diarrhea can also affect how your furry baby uses the litter box.

So, pay attention to sudden or extreme changes and don’t wait it out, act on it, and get a vet check.

Tips to Maintain a Healthy Routine

Now that we’ve covered even the most common factors, here’s what you can do to control the basics and maintain a healthy routine:

• Keep the litter box clean – scoop daily and refresh it regularly
• Have enough boxes – one per cat, plus one extra, no exceptions
• Use the right litter – if your cat avoids the box, the litter might be the problem
• Support a solid diet – good nutrition and hydration keep everything running smoothly
• Stay on top of vet visits – routine check-ups catch issues before they escalate

Signs Your Cat Uses The Litter Box Too Much

Frequency does not necessarily mean only good things or the only thing that matters. How your cat behaves in and around the litter box can pretty much tell you all you need to know.

With that in mind, if your cat uses the litter box a lot, then pay attention to these signs:

• Urinating more than 5 to 6 times a day
• Not urinating for over 24 hours
• Changes in urine or stool color, smell, or consistency
• Straining, crying, or staying in the box longer than usual
• Avoiding the litter box completely
• Having accidents outside the box

These are not quirks or tantrums, these are clear warning signs. If you notice any of these, it’s time to involve the vet before things get worse for your furry baby.

Wrapping Up

A cat should use the litter box anywhere up to 6 times per day as it is one of the clearest signs of their overall health and well-being. Most cats follow a consistent routine, though even a small change in behavior, frequency, or appearance can be a sign to act. Factors like diet, hydration, age, and stress play a role, but a sudden shift should never be ignored.

To stay on top and ensure your cat’s health is always optimal, become familiar with your furry baby’s patterns and habits. More importantly, stay consistent when cleaning the litter box, ensure a proper setup, and never hesitate to call the vet when something feels off.

This simple habit can make a huge difference in your cat’s long-term health.

People Also Ask

The post How Often Do Cats Use The Litter Box – Healthy Habits appeared first on PurrfectlyKiki.

There are so many options and every single one looks like an amazing toy for our furry babies to play with.

The question remains – should you spend money on cat toys?

The short answer is, yes, you should definitely spend money on cat toys. That said, let’s dive a bit deeper into this topic and learn the whys and hows on doing so.

4 Important Values of Cat Toys

Buying cat toys for your feline friend is all about mimicking a real-life outdoor scenario where your cat hunts and hones their natural instincts.

With that in mind, there is great value in buying cat toys and these include:

• Physical Health
• Mental Stimulation
• Overall Happiness
• Long-Term Health Benefits

1. Physical Health

Toys that encourage active play help keep your cat fit and healthy. Regular exercise through play can prevent obesity and keep their muscles and joints in good shape.

Engaging in physical activity also supports cardiovascular health and overall vitality, making playtime an essential part of your cat’s well-being.

2. Mental Stimulation

Engaging toys challenge your cat’s mind and prevent boredom. For these reasons, puzzle toys and interactive games can keep your feline friend mentally sharp and satisfied.

This mental engagement helps reduce stress and anxiety, ensuring your cat remains balanced and content throughout the day.

3. Overall Happiness

A happy cat is an active and well-adjusted cat. Toys provide an outlet for natural behaviors like hunting and pouncing, contributing to a more content and well-rounded cat.

When cats fulfill their instinctual needs through play, toys can help strengthen the bond between you and your cat. This is very wholesome in creating a more harmonious and joyful home environment. We’re a testament to that as my husband just loooves to play with both Kiki and Lily throughout the day in various ways and with different toys.

Bonus Point: Long-Term Health Benefits

This is the biggest benefit of buying your cat toys from a store. When you invest in quality toys, it can have a huge benefit in your cat’s long-term health and well-being.

You can see the following results:

• Behavioral Prevention – engaging toys can help prevent destructive behaviors that often pop up from boredom or lack of stimulation. Interactive toys keep your cat occupied and reduce the likelihood of unwanted behaviors.
• Obesity Prevention – regular play helps maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related health issues. Active toys encourage exercise and keep your cat moving.

What to Consider Before Buying Cat Toys

Now that we’ve learned why it is important to buy new toys for your cats, it’s time to think about what to consider before buying them.

With that in mind, before you go into a pet store and splurge money on fancy new toys, keep in mind the following, as we’d want you to get the best value for your money:

1. Preferences

The first thing you need to do is check what types of cat toys your furry baby enjoys the most:

• Do they prefer to chase balls?
• Do they prefer to pounce on feather wands in an interactive playtime with you?
• Do they play with crinkly materials?

The answers to these questions will reveal your cat’s preference so you can match their interest to a new toy and keep them engaged.

• If your cat prefers to chase balls – get them a plain old ball in various colors or a self-moving mechanical ball
• If your cat prefers to pounce on feather wands – get them wands that have a ton of feathers that they can easily catch and carry
• Lastly, if your cat prefers crinkly materials – make sure to get them puffy-type paper balls or just get an aluminum foil and turn it into a ball

2. Safety

We can’t stress enough just how important a safe toy is for our furry babies, so always prioritize this aspect. Make sure the toy you buy doesn’t wear off easily and doesn’t contain any sharp edges or materials.

Here’s what to look for:

• Small parts that can easily fall off and be swallowed
• Material that can easily be chewed off and ingested
• Strings that can easily loosen up and potentially choke/squeeze your cat around the neck

3. Durability

Lastly, a toy needs to be durable so that your cat can play with it for a longer time. Our Lily, for example, has a few toys that she absolutely adores, always plays with, carries them around, and sometimes talks to them in her cute little kitty murmurry voice.

To get the most durable toys out there, make sure:

• Quality of design and material is consistent
• Toy is well-made and/or crafted
• No hazardous materials on it (same as previous section)

A toy that can last longer and hold up to a lot of vigorous play is quite sustainable and will provide long-term enjoyment.

Homemade DIY & Budget-Friendly Options

Keeping your cat active and entertained does not have to come with a hefty price tag. A little creativity and a few parts can help you craft a highly engaging toy that will be fun for both you and your furry baby.

Here are a few ideas to help ease your wallet and have fun with your kitty:

a) Homemade Toys

Homemade toys, like crumpled paper or aluminum balls, catnip socks, or a cave made from two chairs and a blanket can go a long way.

• Crumpled Paper
• Aluminum Balls
• Cave from Chairs and Blanket
• Socks with Catnip

Crinkly and noisy textures attract cats and create unpredictable movements upon capture that will engage your cat for hours. Aluminium foil turned into a ball is very similar as it attracts cats like nothing else.

Another alternative would be to get an old sock and fill it with catnip, wrap it up, and just throw it in a random corner. Within minutes, the scent will attract your cat and they’ll have the time of their lives rubbing themselves on the sock and playing with it.

Our favorite is either two chairs and a blanket or a couple of pillows and a blanket. My husband would create a cave with two entrances and when we construct this, both our cats fight playfully for a place inside it. They even chase each other around before they get tired and lay inside the cave.

b) Recycled Toys

Recycled items offer a lot of possibilities for inventive cat toys, such as an old toilet paper roll, paper bags, or cardboard boxes. Besides, cats may not need new toys so long as you engage in playtime activities together as well and the existing ones are durable, clean, and safe.

• Toilet Paper Rolls
• Paper Bags
• Cardboard Boxes

An old toilet paper roll can be transformed into a fun and interactive plaything for your furry baby. Just cut a paper roll into rings or create a maze by folding it into different shapes, and watch your cat bat and chase it.

Paper bags are another excellent recycled option as the crinkly sound they make can be irresistible to many cats. Just be sure the bag is free of handles or small parts that could pose a strangling hazard. Cats are clumsy creatures and often get entangled in those, which is exactly what happened with both of our cats.

Cardboard boxes are the easiest trap for a cat, just open it up and lay it in the middle of the room. Within seconds, your furry baby will jump right into it. Then, all you have to do is just wave a stick or a feather wand outside and you’ll see the joy in your cat’s eyes.

Conclusion

Toys play a key role in your cat’s physical and mental health and well-being. It is important to select the right toys depending on your cat’s preferences, and of course, your budget.

In the end, spending money is an investment in your furry baby’s health and happiness, so make sure to balance between store-bought toys and your very own DIY options.

More often than not, cats just enjoy our presence and interaction, so a simple paper box or a feather wand can mean the world to them so long as we are actively engaging in playtime activities.

The post Should You Spend Money on Cat Toys? Benefits & Budget Tips appeared first on PurrfectlyKiki.

Being there to protect them and feed them, teaching them healthy habits, keeping an eye on their health, watching how their body develops and gets stronger, and seeing their personality take shape is a very special time.

It’s also what shapes your relationship with them for the years to come. Here’s how Kiki grew over the first twelve months.

How Kiki Grew Over the First Year

Me and my husband have been blessed with jobs that have us stay at home all the time, which allowed us to see how Kiki evolved with each passing day.

Oh, and also being able to love, cuddle, and play with her all day long!

While the first month when we found Kiki was filled with teaching her healthy habits, checking her for health issues, regular vet visits, and gauging what and how much she eats and drinks, the next 3 months were a bit different.

Months 1 to 3

As time passed, Kiki got healthier by the day. She was still sticking to the living room for the first two weeks, probably feeling too small to explore the great unknown – the rest of the apartment. Unless we picked her up, she was too small to climb the chairs or even the sofa so she mainly played on the floor and the cozy, fuzzy carpet where she regularly fell asleep.

She then started exploring and following us to the bedroom, but again, she was too small to climb the bed. And she also wasn’t brave enough to jump without being sure where she would land.

But, being the brave little rascal she is, this changed in a very short time. The first milestone was jumping from the sofa if we placed her there. Then she started using her teeny tiny claws to climb so she could be close to us while we were just hanging out, talking, or watching Netflix. She was still very, very tiny, even compared to our plushies, Meggie and Peggie.

Pretty soon, she was climbing and jumping from everywhere, feeling safe and secure to run around and explore every corner of the apartment.

Months 4 to 6

In the next 3 months, we saw a lot of progress in all areas, and especially with playtime activities.

Even though the comfort of mommy was something special for Kiki, daddy was the one that always knew how to play with her and keep her entertained. She couldn’t wait for him to come home, she meowed at the door and slept on top of his pajamas every time he was out.

The first time we left her alone overnight, she slept on his pillow feeling like he was close by.

He bought her all sorts of toys, a huge cat tree, plastic mouse that she can chase, an endless number of balls in all sizes and colours, and sticks with feathers that she can jump and catch.

However, the most interesting playtime for her involved us. We would chase her and then she would chase us, but always one at a time. For some reason, if we both joined the play she would back off. I guess she felt outnumbered.

She continued to grow, eat regularly and much to our surprise, drink lots and lots of water.

Months 7 to 9

By this time, she had her own spaces that she slept and played in. We had learned which food she wanted and didn’t want, and she had her favorite pastimes already figured out.

During the night, we made room between our pillows and she would sleep curled up between us. In the morning she would just eat and go back to sleep while we worked in our home office.

In the afternoon, she would feel bored already and she would start to meow and ask for attention. We took breaks from work to make sure she got the attention she wanted and played with her until she was no longer interested, which didn’t take long. We find our Kiki to be a bit lazy that way.

If she wasn’t getting the attention she wanted though, she would climb the shoe cabinet and turn on the lights. She figured out what the switch does and if we still didn’t get up, she would turn the lights off and on again until one of us finally was able to pause their work.

Months 10 to 12

When she started to get bigger, something had clearly changed in her behavior. We noticed that for the last few weeks she started getting aggressive and puffy.

She even looked like she had built muscles and she acted like she was looking for a fight. We would pass by her and she would grab us with her claws. And the play time didn’t end like it used to. It ended with her hurting us and us having scratches all over us.

We didn’t know what was going on and even though it wasn’t all the time, we knew we had to react and help her overgrow this phase, where she was literally a beast.

After doing research and consulting our local veterinarian, we found out this ratched behavior was due to her food. We were giving her wet food in the form of pouches that contained a very high level of taurine, which turned out to make her aggressive. Although taurine is healthy in small amounts and is found in almost all cat foods, it looked like those we gave her were not suitable at all.

Even though they were her favorite, we started giving her less and less, until finally switching to another brand, but also sticking mostly to dry food which suits her best.

Her aggressive behavior subsided within a week and she went back to being our sweet little baby girl. From then on, we have become extremely careful about the food we give her. Not just the brand, but the ingredients, the amount of taurine and fats in it.

Cat Food Directly Affecting a Cat’s Growth

What we have noticed during the first twelve months and how Kiki grew, was that the type of food we gave her directly impacted her growth, behavior, and energy levels.

We started with dry food, lots of water around, and regular wet food in the form of pouches. We never gave her human food or any other raw type of food.

From this, we came to the conclusion that for Kiki, dry food worked the best as she would eat enough to keep her satiated without overfeeding herself. We were also amazed at how much water she drank, so we constantly refilled her water bowl, introduced a secondary source of water, and also bought a water fountain, which she absolutely loved.

Next, as soon as we saw what the wet food did to her, in terms of aggressiveness, bulkiness, and greasy hair, we stopped giving her wet food, but not entirely, as we still give her wet food but very very rarely.

We stick to dry food only, with lots of water options around, and only give her wet food on occasions.

Kiki’s Story Continues

The first year of Kiki’s life was filled with lots of energized days, playtime sessions, and learning what she likes and dislikes in terms of food, water, and cat brands.

We enjoyed watching her grow with each day and we continue to do so to this very day, only this time, we’ve got another furry little baby to nurture as well!

The post Kiki’s Growth – First 6 to 12 Months appeared first on PurrfectlyKiki.

That said, if you want to save up a bit, but also keep your cat entertained with new stuff regularly, then these homemade cat toys should be on top of your to-do list.

Let’s dive in and see how you can spark your kitty’s curiosity without breaking the bank.

5 Best Homemade Cat Toys

The following five DIY toys are some of our favorites as they keep our Kiki and Lili busy, are easy to clean up, and don’t cost us at all.

• Cardboard Boxes
• Sock Toys
• Wrapping Paper
• Balloons
• Strings & Springs

However, you have to be wary of your cat and pay attention to how and when it plays with these toys so that you can avoid your furry baby from becoming quickly bored by these toys.

Without further ado, here are the best DIY toys to keep them busy at all times:

1. Cardboard Boxes

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but don’t underestimate the power of a good ol’ cardboard box. Cats have an almost magical attraction to these simple, unassuming boxes.

When we buy stuff for our home or for ourselves, which we do often, we never throw away the cardboard boxes. Sometimes we carve out holes or just leave them in the middle of the living room and wait to see how our two cuties react.

If you do this, most of the time, here is what you can get for fun:

• Exploring
• Scratching
• Hiding
• Pouncing

The very first thing our cats do is explore the box, smell it, check it from all angles, and find all holes and entry/exit points. Then, they’ll get inside and upon seeing how comfy it is, they’ll start scratching the insides of the cardboard box.

One of the best games they engage in is hide and seek. First, one of them will enter the box and wait for the other one to pass by and pounce and bat away.

2. Sock Toys

These are a bit unorthodox DIY toys, but rest assured they work just as well as a store-bought toy.

What you can do here is take an old sock (washed of course) and fill it with crumpled paper or catnip. Then tie it off and throw or put it away someplace for your cats to find it.

You’ll be amazed at the level of fun this simple creation would do. Oh, and you can engage in interactive playtime by throwing it from time to time. For an added incentive, add a little bell inside the sock and just see how your cats get excited.

3. Wrapping Paper

There is something ultra irresistible about the sound a paper bag or a wrapping paper makes. This type of homemade cat toy is one of the most entertaining, especially for kittens.

Here’s what you can experience if you crumple up a piece of paper or a wrapping paper and throw it to your furry baby:

• Frenzy
• Lots of running around
• Chasing
• Fumbling

When we do this to our cats, Lili is the one that is usually attracted to this type of cat toy and goes berzerk every time we throw her one.

She would jump with power, slide along the floor, catch the wrapping paper and play with it like it’s her best friend.

4. Balloons

Now this one, this one is a very interesting and funny homemade cat toy. The shape and material of the balloon just amazes cats.

We’ve got a lot of these lined up and every now and then fill a few with air and just throw them around, waiting for our babies to find them.

At first, they will be cautious and wary, will explore the balloons, and once they find out they are safe, they start to play with them until they pop.

Rest assured, there is absolutely no harm, other than the fact that sometimes Kiki and Lili would stare at the popped balloon with a sad face like “is it really gone?”, thinking they can’t play with it anymore.

5. Strings & Springs

Oftentimes the best homemade cat toys are the ones in your home. Feather dusters and strings can be a great alternative to store-bought toys.

Attach a piece of cloth to a string, run away with it, and see how your furry baby will run after you, pouncing on the string along the way. Also good to foster a bond with your cat as you interact with them actively.

Another great homemade toy is a piece of spring from a plastic toy or any gadget you may want to throw out. Our Kiki was soooo in love with little springs that we purposely kept buying small plastic toys that contained springs, just to get the springs out and throw them to her so she would play.

Kiki would be occupied for hours on end with a little spring, until she loses it under the sofa or the kitchen.

Cost-Effective DIY Homemade Toys

DIY homemade toys are very cost-effective and creative ways to engage your cats in playtime activities.

Why should you spend a fortune on toys just so that your cat becomes disinterested in toys after a while?

Just pay attention to what your cat likes and dislikes and you can turn every day into a very fun day.

Wrapping Up

Homemade cat toys can stimulate your kitty’s mind and body just as much as store-bought toys. From cardboard boxes to balloons and wrapping paper, there are a whole host of items in your own home that you can use for playtime activities with your cat.

So, try giving these unorthodox homemade cat toys a try and see for yourself how you can brighten up your furry baby’s day!

The post 5 Homemade Cat Toys You Should Try for Your Cat appeared first on PurrfectlyKiki.

For the better!

We went outside to take out the trash and buy groceries when we saw a tiny, dirty, but very cute black and white furball near the garbage containers.

Upon getting closer, this little furry baby jumped on our sneakers and cried for us to take it home.

And that we did!

Kiki Found Her Home

She was so little she could fit in the palm of my hand, but she wasn’t malnourished, so she probably hadn’t been separated from her mother for long. We thoroughly searched the buildings in our neighborhood but didn’t find her.

My wife and I looked at each other, and we both knew exactly what the other was thinking – we’re taking her home!

Having grown up with cats all our lives, we knew exactly what to do, but this was actually our first time having a cat together in our own apartment. Still, we were ready for the challenge and excited to find out what kind of cat parents we’d be.

We took her in, checked her gender and if there were any health issues or injuries. Then we were really excited to have someone to spoil (apart from ourselves) so we went to our closest pet store and bought all sorts of stuff, from cat food to bowls and litter boxes, lots and lots of toys, preparing to take care of this little furry angel.

She was, of course, a bit suspicious at first, but once she got accustomed to her surroundings, she ate a bit, and she then found a cozy little sun-baked spot on our floor to curl up and fall asleep. Little did she know, she will not experience cold weather, hunger, or any danger from the outdoors ever again.

First Time Eating & Drinking Clean

After a while of getting accustomed to her new home, Kiki started exploring her surroundings. She started walking around and looking at the place, hopping around with her teeny tiny legs, eventually finding her food and water, which we placed nearby.

Kiki ate and drank clean water for the first time!

A few moments later, she found her way towards the litter box and, much to our surprise, her first time in the litter box was successful. We were so proud of her!

Kiki spent her first day in her new home getting warm, eating, drinking, getting familiar with her surroundings and sleeping comfortably and without a care in the world.

Me and my wife on the other hand, were dealing with a mix of feelings in the face of the new challenge we found ourselves in. Happiness, fear, sorrow that she had to be alone before we found her and how scared she must have been, but also hope and excitement for the future, knowing we’ll do our best to make her the happiest kitty in the world.

First Visit to the Vet

After the first day, we decided to take her to the vet for a checkup and cleanup, and the vet was amazed at how healthy Kiki was, as well as how pretty she was.

The entire way there, my wife was scared Kiki would think we’re leaving her alone somewhere and she desperately tried to talk to her, reassuring her that we’re gonna be home really soon, even though she knew the little one wouldn’t understand her words. She still does this every time we go to the vet though!

The first trip went very smoothly and Kiki didn’t even meow one bit. It was like she knew this was for her own good.

The vet we visited was the same one my wife had always taken her cats to before, so she trusted him and knew he was the best in town. It was really important for us to have a regular vet that loved animals, cared about their patience and treated every one of them like they were the most special pet in the world. And that’s exactly what he did and we’re really happy with him and the rest of the crew to this day.

He did a thorough checkup, gave her a pill for internal and external parasites, and registered her very own passport. We were so excited!

Knowing how stressful this must have been for her, we brought her back to her new home and gave her lots of attention. She spent most of the day with mommy getting cuddled and spoiled.

First Playtime Activities

The next few days were filled with even more joy as Kiki started playing by herself, at first. Once she got her energy levels up and was safe in the knowledge that this is her home, she started playing with whatever she could find. Everything small enough she could roll around was up for grabs.

We didn’t want to just leave her playing by herself, so we joined in. Pretty soon it became our little routine, regular play sessions together that brought us even closer.

Mommy’s Bond

As kiki grew by the day, she formed a special bond with her mama. My wife would curl her up inside her blouse, cuddling and warming Kiki up, and Kiki would just enjoy this, close up her eyes, and start to purr, enjoying every second of mommy’s warmth.

Anna has had many cats before, but she lived in a house with a yard so they weren’t really house cats exactly, they spent most of their time outside. She loved them very much, but she never had a cat who stayed by her side 24/7. Or one that depended on her this much, following her everywhere, even to the bathroom.

This was a completely new experience for her, one that melted her heart and made Kiki the most loved cat of her life.

Daddy’s Bond

Kiki has a special bond with me too, but ours is more fun, playful and exciting. Since she didn’t have a fellow kitty to chase, I started chasing her around the apartment.

She would hide and then jump at me from her secret spots, and then chase me back. Her tail would puff up, her ears would tilt to the sides, and I knew she was having the best time.

After one of our play sessions, she would crash and fall asleep in random places, tired but happy from all the fun she had.

Being the “fun dad”, also means she wants me to be home all the time. So whenever I am out, Kiki sleeps on my clothes or meows at the door, anxiously waiting for me to come back.

This is why I know, even though she has that special bond with my wife, she loves me just as much.

It’s the same for me as it is for Anna. I grew up in a house with lots of cats too, but I truly feel that Kiki has made the biggest impact on my life. She’s the one I share the most special bond with, having been there for her and cared for her since she was just a tiny baby.

We’ll never know how she ended up abandoned or separated from her mom back then, but we’re so so grateful we were the ones that found her.

Kiki’s Story Continues

Life hasn’t been the same since October 28, 2022. That day marked a new chapter in our lives and in our beloved Kiki’s. We love our time together, watching her grow, play, and enjoy her little world, somehow getting cuter with each passing day.

The post Kiki’s Life Story – How She Changed Our Lives appeared first on PurrfectlyKiki.