Cat Care Guide

Practical, experience-based care tips to help cats live calm, healthy, and well-adjusted lives.

This guide is based on our daily hands-on experience raising and caring for cats in a family environment.

Disclaimer:

This page is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary diagnosis or treatment.

If symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening, please consult a licensed veterinarian immediately.

• Feed age-appropriate, high-quality food with a consistent routine

• Always provide fresh, clean water

• Monitor appetite, stool quality, and energy level daily

• When changing food, transition gradually over 3–7 days to avoid digestive upset

 Vet Attention Needed:

Loss of appetite lasting over 24 hours (shorter for kittens), vomiting, or lethargy

• Scoop daily; fully clean and replace litter regularly

• One litter box per cat plus one extra is ideal

• Sudden changes in litter habits may indicate stress or health issues

 Vet Attention Needed:

Straining to urinate, frequent attempts with little output, or crying in the litter box

 This is an emergency, especially for male cats

• Brush several times a week; daily during shedding seasons

• Prevent mats by gently brushing high-friction areas (chest, belly, behind ears)

• Regular grooming helps reduce hairballs

 Vet Attention Needed:

Excessive hair loss, bald patches, skin redness, or constant scratching

• Provide scratching posts, climbing areas, and quiet resting spots

• Avoid toxic plants (e.g., lilies), essential oil diffusers, and harsh cleaners

• Keep food, litter, and resting areas separate

• Consistent daily routines help cats feel secure

• Gentle, respectful interaction builds trust

• For families with children: teach calm voices, slow movements, and proper handling

• Follow a regular vaccination and deworming schedule

• Annual wellness exams are recommended

• Spayed/neutered cats generally live longer, healthier lives

Possible causes: stress, environmental change, food transition

What you can do at home:

• Keep surroundings quiet

• Offer familiar food

• Ensure hydration

 Vet Attention Needed:

Not eating for 24 hours, vomiting, lethargy, or weight loss

Possible causes: food change, stress, dietary sensitivity

What you can do at home:

• Pause treats and new foods

• Return to a stable, simple diet

• Monitor hydration

 Vet Attention Needed:

Blood in stool, dehydration, diarrhea lasting over 48 hours, or diarrhea in kittens

Occasional hairball vomiting can be normal

Concerning signs: repeated vomiting, dry heaving, or vomiting with lethargy

 Vet Attention Needed:

Multiple vomiting episodes in one day or vomiting combined with appetite loss

Possible causes: mild irritation, stress, environmental changes

What you can do at home:

• Keep air clean and well-humidified

• Gently wipe eyes and nose with a clean, damp cloth

 Vet Attention Needed:

Fever, thick yellow/green discharge, or reduced appetite

This is normal, especially during the first days.

What helps:

• Provide a quiet safe space

• Allow the cat to approach at their own pace

• Maintain consistent routines

 Vet Attention Needed:

If hiding is accompanied by not eating, not drinking, or signs of illness

If you have questions about your cat’s daily care or adjustment, feel free to reach out.

If you’re considering a Ragdoll in the future, you’re welcome to explore how we raise our kittens in a calm, family-based environment.