🧼 Hygiene & grooming

Scoop the tray at least daily, ideally twice.

Why? Cats avoid dirty, smelly trays and may go elsewhere. Their noses are far more sensitive than ours.

Source: [3][4][6]

Empty and wash the tray regularly.

Why? Non-clumping litter: weekly. Clumping litter: every 2–4 weeks. Use a mild, unscented detergent.

Source: [3][4]

Skip scented litter, tray liners and strong cleaners.

Why? Strong smells bother cats and claws snag on liners, so many cats stop using the tray.

Source: [3][4]

Short coat: brush at least once a week.

Why? Brushing removes loose hair, means fewer hairballs and gives you a chance to check for fleas, skin and ear problems.

Source: [1]

Long coat: comb daily with a wide-toothed comb.

Why? Long hair mats easily, especially in the armpits and between the back legs. Tease mats out by hand, never with scissors.

Source: [1]

Tail swishing, ears turning back? Stop brushing.

Why? Those are signs of discomfort. Pushing on makes next time harder; finish with a treat.

Source: [1]

Healthy cats rarely need a bath.

Why? Cats keep themselves clean. Bathe only when really dirty, with cat shampoo; human shampoo dries their skin.

Source: [1][2]

Trim claws every two to three weeks.

Why? Blunter claws are kinder to people and furniture. Add a sturdy scratching post too.

Source: [3]

Check ears weekly; never poke cotton buds inside.

Why? Healthy ears are pale pink, clean and odour-free. Probing the canal can cause injury or infection.

Source: [2]

Brush your cat’s teeth with cat toothpaste.

Why? 50–90% of cats over four have dental disease, mostly preventable by brushing. Human toothpaste can be toxic to cats.

Source: [5]

Sudden accidents outside the tray? See a vet, don’t punish.

Why? It’s usually illness or stress, not revenge. Punishment only makes the cat more afraid.

Source: [6]

A male cat straining but not peeing: emergency, go now.

Why? It may be a urinary blockage, which is life-threatening if treatment is delayed.

Source: [7]