Ultimate Guide to Cat Care Essentials: From Food to Grooming and More
We know that our cat’s health is of paramount importance in this blog, Ultimate Guide to Cat Care Essentials. But how do we ensure our pet remains as healthy as possible for as long as possible?
Of course, I’m not an expert, so I’ll only provide you with some of the guidelines I’ve found helpful over the years. Probably the most important thing you can do to keep your pet healthy is feed him or her quality food. This one thing will go a long way toward ensuring that your pet visits the vet as seldom as possible.
It is generally recommended that a kitten should receive his or her first inoculation
and deworming at 8 weeks. Give them boosters a month later and then every 3
years until the age of 7.
From proper grooming to health treatments and travel accessories, every aspect of care contributes to your cat’s happiness and well-being. In this guide, we’ll cover all the essentials every cat parent should know—from selecting the right food to keeping your cat healthy, entertained, and comfortable.
1. Cat Carriers: Safe Travel for Your Feline
A cat carrier is an essential piece of equipment for your cat. You’ll need it to transport them to the vet for regular check-ups and in case of emergencies. Cats are creatures of habit—they love familiar surroundings and can find traveling stressful. You should only travel with your cat for essential reasons, such as vet visits, cattery stays, or when moving house.
While traveling, your cat should remain shut inside a suitable cat carrier at all times to keep them safe. It’s a smart idea to have your cat microchipped in
case they escapes and gets lost. Also, be sure your microchip contact details are up to date.
There are many types of cat carriers on the market. The best ones include features like:
● Strong, secure materials: Carriers made from metal wire or hard plastic are durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. If your cat has an accident inside, these materials won’t absorb odors and can be wiped clean quickly.
● Comfortable interior: Line the bottom with a towel or blanket for coziness. Spraying a pheromone diffuser like FELIWAY for 15 minutes before use can calm your cat.
● Proper sizing: Your cat should be able to stand up, lie down, and turn around inside the carrier. A snug but not tight fit prevents them from sliding around during transit.
● Top and front openings: A dual-opening design makes it easier to gently lower your cat inside and allows your vet to examine your pet without removing it.
● Good ventilation: Look for carriers with openings on at least two sides to allow proper airflow and reduce the risk of overheating. Cats grow quickly, so remember that a carrier that fits your kitten may be too small when they’re an adult. Always choose a carrier with your cat’s adult size
in mind.
2. Cat Scratching: Understanding the Behavior & Solution
Are you a cat parent? If yes, you might have noticed your cat scratching on your couch, curtains, mat, and even your clothes. Every cat parent wonders, Why does my cat scratch so much? The good news is—scratching is not a sign
of bad behavior. It’s a natural, healthy habit that supports your cat’s wellness.
Because it’s instinctual, you should not try to completely eliminate the behavior or scold your cat. Instead, encourage her to scratch on the right objects. Cats use their claws for several reasons, and in the absence of satisfactory alternatives, they may target your furniture and carpets. Why Do Cats Scratch?
1. Healthy Claws: Scratching helps shed the outer sheath of their claws to allow new growth.
2. Territory Marking: Cats have scent glands in their paws, and scratching leaves both a visual and scent mark.
3. Exercise and Stretching: Scratching lets cats stretch their bodies fully and strengthen their muscles.
4. Stress Relief: It’s a calming activity that helps reduce anxiety.
5. Joy and Excitement: Cats often scratch when they’re happy, especially after waking up or when greeting their favorite humans. Choosing the Right Scratcher
1. Long and Big: Ensure it’s large enough for your cat to fully stretch.
2. Sturdy: It should be stable and not tip over when leaned on or jumped upon.
3. Different Material: Choose something distinct from the textures your cat usually scratches (e.g., sisal vs. carpet) to avoid confusion.
Tips to Attract Your Cat to Scratching Posts
● Place a scratcher near where your cat sleeps.
● Sprinkle catnip on it to pique interest.
● Reward your cat with treats or praise when they use it.
It’s easy to redirect your cat’s scratching habits with patience and the right setup. Doing so not only saves your furniture but also enhances your cat’s
physical and emotional well-being.
3. Best Cat Food: Nutrition That Supports Health
How To Find The Right Cat Food?
But how do you find the right kind of cat food? Well, it is easy, peasy. Let’s find out what kind of food your cat needs:
1. Wet or Dry: Cats love moisture in their food. This is because moisture maintains good
hydration levels in the body and also promotes urinary health. Wet cat food has more
moisture content than dry cat food. But it also has a shorter shelf life. On the other hand,
dry food has a longer shelf life and is more convenient for cat owners. You need to find
out what kind of food your cat loves. Wet or Dry?
2. Age Your cat’s age and their health play a huge role in deciding the kind of food they
need. Like if you have a kitten, they will need more calories and proteins for faster
growth. But in the case of senior cats, they need foods that are easier to digest and put less
load on their digestive system.
3. Quality of ingredients: If you’re looking for the best food brands, then make sure you use
brands that have real meat, fish, or poultry in their list of ingredients. Also, make sure they
have no artificial preservatives, color, or flavor.
4. Look for this: Look for brands or cat food that have high amounts of protein and fat, and
Types of Cat Food
Before jumping on the brands, let us first try to find out the types of cat foods these brands offer:
Dry Cat Food
Cats love this food. Dry cat food has less moisture content, and this is also known as kibble. Dry cat
food is as dry as the Sahara desert. But, cats love it because it is crunchy and promotes chewing. This keeps your cat’s teeth and gums in great shape. Another great thing about dry food is that it is more affordable than wet cat food.
Semi-Moist Cat Food
This kind of food is a mix of dry and wet. This food has a 60-65% water content. This food is also a perfect balance of moisture to keep your cat hydrated and healthy.
Wet Cat Food
Then, finally, comes the wet cat food. 100% moisture content, and this is also known as gravy food.
Guess what? It’s not only humans but also cats who love it when their food has gravy in it. Gravy foods have a high-quality protein, with the right mix of vegetables and moisture. This gives your Cat Care Essentials a powerful punch of nutrition. Wet food is also great for cats that are recovering from illness or need extra hydration.
Best Cat Food Brands in India
Now onto the main task. Ranking the best cat food in India. This is our collection, which is studied,
tested, and curated for you and your cat. Let’s hop on:
Royal Canin Cat Food
These are the most popular food brands in India. This brand uses premium, high-quality ingredients and also offers nutritionally balanced recipes for your cat.
Royal Canin Cat Food serves every kind of cat, whether it’s a kitten or an adult. Every bite of Royal Canin cat food is full of healthy fats, carbohydrates, and protein. This is to make sure that your cat gets a perfect balance of nutrients.
Not only that, they even have variety, like they have foods made specifically for overweight cats and
Also, those for cats with sensitive stomachs.
Whiskas Cat Food
Next up on our list is the Whiskas Cat Food. If you go out to any pharmacy, you will easily find this
brand. Why? Because it is loved by every cat owner. Why?
Whiskas Cat Food has a lot of mouth-watering food in the form of dry cat food and wet cat
food. Not only that, they made this cat food with the best ingredients you can ever imagine.
Every meal with Whiskas is an indulgence in a nutritious feast that checks all the boxes of your cat’s dietary needs. Their menu has real chicken, beef, and fish as the main course with a mix of essential nutrients.
Sheba Cat Food
Sheba doesn’t compromise when it comes to quality. And you can see it in their products. Sheba Cat
Food has wet cat food that serves cats with specific needs. They also have specialized options for
overweight cats and those with sensitive stomachs.
Farmina Cat Food
This is also the most loved cat food brand in India. This brand is committed to developing natural and scientifically formulated food. They use the best ingredients and sources with utmost care and mix them with your cat food with perfection.
Every bag of Farmina Cat Food has protective packaging that seals the freshness, and it is made with 100% GMO-free certified ingredients.
Not only that Farmina Cat Food also has foods with all-natural choices, and palatable options because they’re committed to protecting your pet.
Acana Cat Food
This is one of the most favorite food brands of cat owners in India. Acana Cat Food’s packet is full of nutrition to meet the needs of cats of different ages. They also love to promote meat as a food option for your cat.
But don’t get us wrong; while providing top-quality meat, they also don’t compromise on veggies and supplements that give the right nutritional mix for your cat.
Acana Cat Food comes with bite-sized powder that is packed with nutrition, and their food doesn’t even contain a tiny bit of chemicals or preservatives.
Parapet
Purepet is a trusted name among cat owners in India, offering high-quality ingredients in every bite. Their cat food is designed to cater to your cat’s taste buds with a variety of flavors, ensuring every meal feels like a treat.
What sets Purepet apart is its nutrient-rich formulas that are easily digestible. This makes it a great
choice for cats of all ages, ensuring they get the perfect mix of taste and nutrition.
Drools Cat Food
Drools Cat Food is perfect for pet parents who want the best for their cats. It is packed with fatty acids, which promote healthier skin and a shinier, more vibrant coat.
Drools also takes the extra step in supporting your cat’s overall well-being by helping them manage
their weight effectively, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
To top it off, every serving of Drools is designed to strengthen your cat’s immune system, making sure they stay active, happy, and healthy.
Me-O Cat Food
Me-O Cat Food is the go-to choice for budget-conscious cat owners who don’t want to compromise on quality. Their recipes are crafted to deliver balanced and affordable nutrition, making them a practical option for everyday feeding.
Applaws Cat Food
Applaws Cat Food is a premium brand that truly lives up to its name. Known for using natural,
high-quality ingredients, this brand emphasizes limited-ingredient recipes, making it an excellent choice for cats with specific dietary needs.
What makes Applaws stand out is its high percentage of real meat or fish in every recipe. It’s the perfect
option for pet parents who want to give their cats a natural, protein-rich diet.
Friskies Cat Food
Friskies is all about wholesome nutrition and irresistible taste. With every meal, your cat gets to enjoy a taste that keeps them coming back for more. Their formulas are carefully crafted to provide balanced nutrition, ensuring your cat receives all the essential nutrients they need. Friskies has a delightful range of options for even the pickiest eaters.
Temptations Cat Food
Temptations are the ultimate indulgence for your feline friend. Their taste makes them a favorite treat for cats everywhere. But it’s not just about flavor, Temptations also delivers a mix of nutrition and quality, making sure your cat enjoys healthy cat food every time. Their treats are perfect for rewarding your pet or simply showing them some extra love.
Bellotta Cat Food
Bellotta Cat Food is made to provide a nutritionally rich diet without any preservatives. Every serving is packed with vitamins and minerals to support healthy growth, taurine for heart and eye health, and amino acids to maintain a shiny coat. Bellotta also includes omega fatty acids to keep cats active and healthy. With Bellotta, your cat gets a complete and balanced meal in every bite.
4. Dry Cat Food: Pros, Cons & Top Picks
1. Orijen Original Cat Dry Food
● Highlights: Grain-free, 90% meat content, rich in taurine and omega-3 fatty acids.
● Ideal for: Cats requiring a high-protein, biologically appropriate diet.
● Note: Premium pricing reflects superior ingredient quality.
🥈 2. Acana Pacifica Dry Cat Food
● Highlights: 75% fish-based protein, grain-free, nutrient-rich.
● Ideal for: Cats preferring fish flavors and needing a protein-rich diet.
● Note: Premium pricing reflects superior ingredient quality.
🥉 3. Farmina N&D Prime Chicken & Pomegranate
● Highlights: High-quality animal proteins, grain-free, include pomegranate antioxidants.
● Ideal for: Cats with grain sensitivities and those needing a balanced diet.
4. Royal Canin Fit 32
● Highlights: Tailored for active adult cats, supports energy and weight management.
● Ideal for: Indoor cats with moderate activity levels.
5. Purina Friskies Seafood Sensations
● Highlights: Blend of seafood flavors, essential nutrients for adult cats.
● Ideal for: Cats transitioning to dry food or those preferring seafood
flavors.
6. Me-O Seafood Adult Cat Dry Food
●Highlights Affordable, contains taurine for vision and vitamin C for immune support.
● Ideal for: Budget-conscious cat owners seeking balanced nutrition. Animal + 1 Supertails + 1 Supertails
7. Drools Ocean Fish Adult Cat Dry Food
● Highlights: Rich in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, promotes healthy skin and coat.
● Ideal for: Cat Care Essentials needing skin and coat health support.
8. Whiskas Adult Ocean Fish Dry Cat Food
● Highlights: Complete and balanced nutrition, contains essential vitamins and minerals.
● Ideal for: Adult cats with standard dietary needs.
9. Sheba Dry Cat Food – Chicken & Tuna
● Highlights: High palatability, enriched with essential nutrients.
● Ideal for: Fussy eaters and cats needing a variety.
10. Purepet Ocean Fish Adult Cat Dry Food
● Highlights: Budget-friendly, fortified with essential vitamins and
minerals.
● Ideal for: Cat owners seeking economical yet nutritious options.
When selecting the best dry cat food, consider your cat’s age, activity level, and any specific health needs. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your cat’s diet.
5. Cat Grooming: Keeping Your Cat Clean and Comfortable
Grooming helps maintain your cat’s health and well-being. A proper grooming routine keeps their coat clean and tangle-free and strengthens their bond.
Understanding Your Cat’s Grooming Needs
● Identifying Coat Types: Long-haired cats need more frequent grooming. Short-haired cats are lower maintenance. Hairless cats require regular baths.
● Gauging Tolerance: Some cats enjoy grooming; others may be anxious. Start gently and gradually increase.
● Age Considerations: Kittens may get dirtier, adults need routine care, and older cats may need extra help. Prepping for the Session
● Choose the Right Tools: Use brushes appropriate for your cat’s coat type. Rubber brushes for short hair, metal combs for long hair.
● Create a Soothing Environment: Quiet, calm, well-lit area. Use familiar items.
● Gather Supplies:
○ Brushes/combs
○ Flea comb
○ Ear cleaner
○ Nail clippers
○ Shampoo and towels
○ Treats
Executing the Grooming Process
● Brushing: Brush weekly or more often for long-haired cats.
● Bathing: Only when necessary. Use lukewarm water and cat-specific shampoo.
● Nail Trimming: Trim every 3–4 weeks. Avoid the quick.
● Ear Cleaning: Use vet-approved cleaner. Check ears weekly.
● Dental Care: Brush teeth with cat toothpaste weekly or daily.
Addressing Common Skin and Coat Issues
● Parasites: Check for fleas, ticks, and mites. Use combs and shampoos as needed. Clean bedding.
● Skin Conditions: Look for inflammation or flaky skin. Use gentle shampoos, brush regularly, and feed a balanced diet.
Additional Considerations
● Hairballs & Matting: Brush regularly; consider omega-3 supplements.
● Professional Services: Consider pros for severe matting or if your cat resists home grooming.
● Overall Health: Grooming improves skin, reduces shedding and stress, and helps with early detection of health issues.
6. Cat Nail Trimming: Safe and Stress-Free Techniques The key to trimming your cat’s nails is to help them get comfortable with the clippers, having their paws held, and ultimately with the act of trimming itself. To do this:
Step 1: Get Your Cat Comfortable with the Clippers. Start by simply showing your cat the clippers. Every time they snip the clippers, give them a reward—this could be a treat, petting, or praise.
Once your cat is comfortable singing the clippers, start touching their paws with the back of the clippers. Each time you do, reward your cat again. When your cat no longer minds the clippers touching their paws, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Get Your Cat Comfortable Having Their Paw Held and Nail Extended. Sit your cat in your lap when they are calm. Gently take one of their paws and massage it for a few seconds so the nails extend. Immediately reward them afterward.
If your cat pulls away, don’t resist—wait until they’re more comfortable and try again.
Practice daily for a few minutes until your cat gets used to having their paws touched.
Step 3: Get Your Cat Comfortable with Trimming.g With your cat sitting in your lap, facing away from you, gently massage a paw to extend the nails. Select one nail and trim only the white part—never cut the pink area (the quick), which contains nerves and blood vessels.
Trim just one or two claws per session, and reward your cat after each nail.
If your cat resists, don’t force them—try again later when they’re more
relaxed.
Aim to trim every 10–14 days. If it’s too challenging, your vet or a groomer can
Help during your next visit.
7. Cat Beds: Creating the Perfect Rest Spot
Types of cat beds for Deeper sleep: Heated Cat Bed
A heated cat bed is a device that allows cats to sleep on an elevated surface. The heated bed is
powered by an electric or battery pack and emits warmth from a thermostat.
A heated cat bed is a helpful tool for helping cats get comfortable and sleep in a new bed.
Heated beds help to keep cats warm and cozy, which is important for their comfort.
● Place the bed in a quiet, comfortable spot in your home.
● Add some cat treats and cat toys to the bed to entice your cat to spend time inside.
● Set the temperature of the bed to a warm temperature before you put your cat in it.
● Once your cat is used to the bed, gradually decrease the heat until your cat sleeps
in the bed all night long!
Soft Cat Bed
Soft cat beds are made from soft, comfortable materials that your cat can curl up in. These beds
come in different shapes and sizes, so there’s one that’s perfect for your cat. Soft cat beds are
easy to transport and place almost anywhere in your home.
● Start by adding a soft, washable bed cover to the bed. This will help make it more
comfortable.
● Add soft bedding such as cushioning or fleece bedding to the bed, making it extra
cozy and comforting for your kitty.
● If you’re trying to get your cat accustomed to the new soft cat bed, offer treats and
positive reinforcement when it uses the bed. Play with your cat near the bed and
give it positive attention while it sleeps on the new bed.
● Gradually increase the time that you leave your kitty alone in the vicinity of the bed as it becomes more comfortable using the new resting spot.
Luxury Cat Bed
Your feline friend deserves the ultimate comfort and style, and that’s exactly what a luxury cat
bed provides. Not only does it offer your cat a cozy place to relax, but it also adds a touch of
elegance to your home decor. This bed becomes a permanent, essential spot for your cat to call
their own and unwind in complete luxury.
● First, prepare the bed by removing any toys, feces, or materials your cat is using. This will help the bed be free of any distracting elements that could cause confusion when your cat is trying to sleep.
● Keep new cat toys and cat treats near the bedding to provide extra comfort and cushion for your Cat Care Essentials as it begins to explore its new bed.
● Lastly, reward your cat for spending time in the new bed with playtime to reinforce its positive association with the bed and encourage it to return to it when tired. Keep an eye on your cat while it sleeps in the bed to make sure it is comfortable and safe. If you notice your cat exhibiting any signs of discomfort, such as scratching or trying to escape the bed, take note of what might be causing this and address it accordingly.
8. Cat Flea Treatment: Prevention and Cure
9. Cat Vaccines: Keeping Your Pet Protected
Let’s talk about vaccines for a aminutet —because they’re one of the simplest and most important ways you can protect your cat’s health. Think of them like a shield
that helps your cat’s body fight off dangerous diseases before they ever become a threat. When your cat is a kitten, they’ll need a few core vaccines. These usually start
around 6 to 8 weeks of age. Your vet will give boosters over the next few months to
help build strong immunity. After that, your cat will need booster shots regularly—often once a year or every three years, depending on the vaccine. Here are some of the major diseases vaccines protect against:
● Feline Panleukopenia (FPV): A serious, often fatal disease—think of it like feline parvo.
● Feline Herpesvirus and Calicivirus: These are common causes of respiratory infections (sneezing, watery eyes, runny noses).
● Rabies: Deadly and transmissible to humans. This vaccine is often legally required.
● Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Especially recommended for kittens or outdoor cats.
Your vet will help tailor the vaccine schedule based on your cat’s lifestyle, whether they go outside, live with other pets, or travel with you.
And don’t worry—vaccinations are quick, and most cats handle them like champs.
Some might be a little sleepy afterward, but that’s totally normal. Just think of it as
one small moment that gives your furry friend a whole lot of protection.
10. Litter Box Setup and Hygiene
Let’s face it—nobody likes a smelly litter box, especially not your cat. A clean, well-placed litter box can make all the difference in keeping your home odor-free and your kitty content.
Choosing the Right Litter Box: Make sure your cat can move around easily inside the box. Covered boxes might seem like a good idea to control smell, but some cats don’t like feeling trapped. Test both covered and uncovered options to see what your cat prefers. Follow this simple rule: one box per cat, plus one extra. If you have two cats, you should have three litter boxes spread throughout your home.
Litter Types and Placement
Cats can be picky, so you may need to try a few different types of litter—clumping, non-clumping, scented, or unscented. Most cats prefer soft, unscented, clumping litter.
Place the box in a quiet, low-traffic area. Avoid placing it near your cat’s food and water bowls (they like their bathroom and dining room separate!).
Cleaning Routine
● Scoop waste daily
● Wash the box with mild soap and water weekly
● Replace litter entirely every 1–2 weeks (depending on usage and litter type)
A dirty litter box can cause your cat to go elsewhere, like your bed or laundry basket. If your cat suddenly stops using the box, it’s a sign that something’s wrong—either with the setup or possibly their health. A quick vet visit can help rule out issues.
Conclusion
Caring for your cat involves more than just love—it requires the right tools, food, and habits. From proper grooming and nutrition to safe travel and cozy rest, every detail matters. Understanding your Cat Care Essentials needs ensures a healthier, happier life. With the right care essentials, you can create a loving, stress-free environment that supports your feline’s overall well-being.
