THE CHRONICLES OF MILOTH MAMA

Welcoming a new cat into your home is an exciting and heartwarming experience. It is said that “dogs have masters and cats have servants”! Our journey of adopting our fur babies and getting addicted to doting on them is an interesting one. In this blog post I will recount my journey, clear several misconceptions and lay down some essential tips for all the new cat parents out there!

Initially, I wanted to adopt a dog, as I had adopted a stray puppy when I was around 13/14 years old. She was named ‘Sparky’. But, one day when I was in school, my mother went behind my back and secretly gave her away. According to her, it was difficult to take care of the puppy. But, I feel my mother was jealous of the attention our new puppy was getting from me. In my heart, I knew that over the period of time, Sparky would have matured and become a part of our family. But, sadly, that never happened, and there was a big hole in my heart because I believed that I did grave injustice to Sparky by going to school that day.

Anyways, as I grew up, I always remembered ‘Sparky,’ and discussed with my husband that we should adopt a dog. However, he was scared of dogs, so we decided to adopt a cat. One day in August 2021, I came across a post on a Facebook group for adopting a kitten, but he had siblings too. So, instead of one, we decided to adopt two cats (brother (Loki) and sister(Thor); initially they were named blacky and jacky) as our new furbabies. It’s always advisable to adopt siblings or bonded pairs together or have at least two cats, as they are social animals and need each other for grooming and playing.

We must have the patience to earn their trust and, once earned it’s always and forever!

Over the time, the more we got to know about Loki and Thor, the more fascinated we became with them. Cats are wonderful companions, highly independent but social and entertain us with their playful antics, affectionate behaviour, and curious spirit. However, most people see cats as aloof and cold, this is because of their independent nature.

EVOLUTION OF CATS

“Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have not forgotten this” — Unknown

Cats have a unique place in human history, revered in some cultures and part of everyday life in others. The story of the domestic cat begins with its wild ancestors. The domestic cat, Felis catus, is believed to have descended from the African wildcat, Felis lybica.

When compared to the big cats, tigers and domesticted cats share 95.6% of their DNA and only differ by 4.4%. Thus, they share similar behaviours like hunting and the need to be alone. In the wild, dogs have always been pack animals whereas, cats have been solitary hunters.

CATS DOMESTICATED THEMSELVES

Around 10,000 years ago, in the Fertile Crescent (modern-day Middle East), humans transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherers to settled agricultural societies. This shift led to the storage of surplus grains, which attracted rodents. Wildcats began to frequent human settlements to hunt these rodents, benefiting from the abundant food source. Over time, a mutually beneficial relationship developed, leading to domestication.

As human societies evolved and spread across the globe, so did domestic cats. Their journey was facilitated by trade, exploration, and conquest. From Ancient Egypt, via trade routes to Europe, Asia and America, cats travelled everywhere on ships as pest controllers.

THE ROLE OF CATS IN HUMAN SOCIETY

Apart form utilitarian roles, cats have religious and cultural significance, they are beloved companions, and have also conttributed to scientific research (behavior, genetics, and physiology).

EVOLUTIONARY ADAPTATIONS OF CATS

“The smallest feline is a masterpiece” — Leonardo da Vinci

• Sensory Adaptations: Cats have keen eyesight, in low light, and acute hearing. Their whiskers help them navigate.
• Reproductive Strategies: High reproductive rate has ensured their survival and proliferation.
• Behavioral Flexibility: Cats exhibit a high degree of behavioral flexibility. They can adapt to various living conditions, from urban apartments to rural farms.

PREPARING THE HOME

Before bringing our cats home, it was crucial to prepare our living space to welcome them. Cats are curious creatures who love to explore, so making the home safe and cat-friendly was the first step.

• Buying a sturdy Pet Carrier
• Creating a Safe Space: Designate a quiet area / cozy corner having food and water, where cats can retreat and feel secure.
• Cat-Proof the Home: Remove hazardous items (toxic plants, cleaning chemicals,sewing thread and needles) and secure loose wires. Keep breakables out of reach. Check for any openings that would let the cat crawl into and become trapped. Sturdy screens on all windows and netting in the balcony is very important.
• Providing Scratching Posts: Cats have a natural instinct to scratch, which helps them mark their territory and keep their claws healthy.
• Setting Up a Litter Box: Choose a quiet, accessible location. Keep it clean and regularly scooped. Aim for one litter box per cat plus one extra.

FEEDING THE CATS

• All cats are lactose intolerant – Don’t give milk (except Kitten Milk Replacer for kittens who have still not weaned)
• Provide fresh water in different bowls and keep away from food bowl.
• Choose the Right Food: Select high-quality cat food that meets the cat’s nutritional needs, considering factors like age, weight, and health conditions.
• Cats are obligate carnivores and MUST be fed meat-based diet. Never give raw meat (contains bacteria and worms) or cooked bones (choking hazards) to cats. Always give only boiled meat or fish without any seasoning.
• Establish a Feeding Routine: Cats thrive on routine. Feed at the same times each day and provide fresh water at all times.
• Avoid Overfeeding: Obesity is a common problem in cats. Follow the feeding guidelines on the food packaging and adjust portions based on vet’s recommendations.
• Treats are a great way to bond with our cats and reward good behavior, but they should not exceed 10% of cat’s daily calorie intake.

HEALTH AND VETERINARY CARE

Some deworming and other supplements for my cats. However, always consult your vet first before using any medicines or supplements. Always follow the instructions on the pack.

DISCLAIMER – Veterinary Consultation: Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice and recommendations for your cat’s health and well-being.

• Schedule Regular Check-ups: Take your cat to the vet for annual check-ups and vaccinations, as well as regular blood work and dental exams to detect health issues early. Also ensure your kitten / cat is up-to-date with vaccinations (Rabies, Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), Feline calicivirus, etc).
• Spaying/Neutering: If not already done, spay or neuter your kitten / cat to prevent unwanted litters, reduce the risk of health issues, and control the cat population. This also reduces the risk of cancers and infections.
• Dental health is crucial for your cat. Brush its teeth regularly and provide dental treats or toys to maintain oral hygiene.
• Use vet-recommended flea and tick preventatives, regularly check your cat for signs of parasites, and maintain a clean-living environment. Deworming should also be part of your cat’s health routine.
• Regular grooming maintains your cat’s coat and reduces shedding and hairballs in stomach. Brush your cat regularly, especially if it has long hair, and check for skin issues and abnormalities promptly.

ENRICHING THE CAT’S LIFE

“Time spent with cats is never wasted” — Sigmund Freud

Cats need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Here are some tips to enrich their life:

• Playtime: Spend quality time playing with your cat using toys like feathers, wands, and balls. Rotate toys to keep them interesting and engaging.
• Interactive Toys: Invest in toys that challenge your cat mentally and keep them entertained when you are not around. Puzzle feeders and automated toys can provide hours of stimulation.
• Perches and Hiding Spots: Cats love to climb and observe their surroundings from a height. Provide cat trees, shelves, and cozy hiding spots to satisfy this instinct. Window perches can also be a great addition.
• Don’t throw away those old cardboard boxes and cartons. Give them to your cats for playing and enjoy the fun!
• Window Views: Set up a perch near a window so your cat can watch the outside world, providing entertainment and stimulation. Birds, squirrels, and passersby can keep your cat engaged.
• Training: Cats can be trained using positive reinforcement techniques to teach them tricks or commands, providing mental stimulation.

UNDERSTANDING CAT BEHAVIOUR

“Cats have it all — admiration, an endless sleep, and company only when they want it” — Rod McKuen

Understanding cat’s behaviour helps build a strong bond with them and ensures their needs are met.

• Body Language: Learn to read your cat’s body language. For example, a relaxed cat with an upright tail is happy, while flattened ears and a twitching tail indicate irritation. Understanding these cues can help you respond appropriately.
• Communication: Cats communicate through meowing, purring, and other vocalizations. Pay attention to the context of these sounds to understand your cat’s needs and emotions.
• Socialization: Socialize your cat gradually to new people and environments using treats and praise to create positive associations.
• Litter Box Issues: If your cat starts eliminating outside the litter box, it could indicate a health issue or stress. Keep the litter box clean and consult your Vet.
• Aggression: Identify triggers, provide outlets for energy, consult a vet or behaviourist if needed. Never punish your cat physically; use positive reinforcement and redirection.

BUILDING A STRONG BOND

Creating a strong bond with our cats was one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a cat parent. It filled our life with warmth and acted as a stress buster. We never knew the depth of a cat’s emotions and the strength of their love. I, for one, will always be grateful to Loki and Thor for teaching me how to be self-confident and value myself.

Here are some tips:

• Spend Quality Time: Interact with your cat through play, grooming, or simply sitting together to build trust and affection.
• Respect Their Space: Cats appreciate independence. Allow them to seek attention to avoid stress and anxiety.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, affection, and praise. Avoid punishment to preserve your relationship.
• Routine: Cats are creatures of habit and benefit from established routines for feeding, playtime, and other activities. Predictable schedules can reduce anxiety and improve behavior.
• Love and Patience: Building a strong bond takes time. Show your cat love and understanding as you navigate your journey together. Getting to know them is part of the joy of pet ownership.

COMMON CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

Being a cat parent comes with responsibilities to ensure your feline friend is healthy, happy, and well-adjusted. Cats are more than just pets; they become part of the family.As a new cat parent, you may encounter some common challenges. Here are tips to address them:

• Dealing with Shedding: Regular grooming can significantly reduce shedding. Use a cat-specific brush and groom your cat daily. During shedding seasons, increase the frequency of grooming sessions.
• Litter box odour: Scoop the litter box daily and change the litter completely every week. Consider adding baking soda for extra freshness.
• Reducing Anxiety: Some cats are naturally anxious. Provide plenty of hiding spots and use pheromone diffusers to create a calming environment. Gradually introduce new experiences and avoid sudden changes in their routine.
• Handling Boredom: Boredom can lead to destructive behavior. Rotate and provide new toys regularly. Interactive toys and puzzle feeders can keep your cat stimulated.
• Night-time routine: Cats are naturally nocturnal, but you can help them adjust to your schedule by engaging in active play sessions before bedtime and establishing a nighttime routine. Consider using automatic feeders for meals during the night if necessary.

CONCLUSION

“Cats are connoisseurs of comfort” — James Herriot

Becoming a cat parent is a fulfilling and joyful experience. By understanding and meeting your cat’s needs, you can ensure they lead a healthy, happy, and enriched life. Remember, every cat is unique, and learning about their individual personality will help you provide the best care possible. Enjoy the journey and the special moments you’ll share with your feline friend.

Cats are incredible companions that bring joy, comfort, and a sense of calm to our lives. As a new cat parent, your dedication and love will create a fulfilling relationship with your feline friend. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to provide the best care for your cat, ensuring they lead a happy, healthy, and enriched life. Embrace the journey and cherish every moment with your new furry family member.

ALWAYS ADOPT, DON’T SHOP. ADOPT / RESCUE PETS. CHOOSE THE SENIOR PET IN THE SHELTER. DON’T BUY BREEDS.   

Resources

• Dr.Amit Chaturvedi – our family vet, who performed neutering surgery of Loki.
• Dr.Akhand Singh – vet who performed spaying surgery of Thor
• kitten care guide
• important things about being a parent to cat
• 25 mistakes every new cat owner makes
• first time cat parent
• r/CatAdvice