Cat lifespan and health

{{whyLabel}}: Many common household items and plants cause acute kidney failure or poisoning, which are leading causes of premature death in cats.

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• Identify and remove Lilies (highly toxic), Azaleas, and Sago Palms.
• Secure loose electrical cords and small swallowable objects like hair ties or thread.
• Replace chemical cleaners with pet-safe, enzymatic alternatives to avoid respiratory irritation.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: All rooms are scanned and cleared of known feline toxins and choking hazards.

{{whyLabel}}: Cats are arboreal hunters; vertical space increases their territory, reduces stress-related illnesses, and provides essential exercise.

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• Install at least two wall-mounted shelves or a floor-to-ceiling cat tree.
• Ensure the 'highway' allows the cat to traverse a room without touching the floor.
• Place perches near windows to provide 'Cat TV' (visual stimulation).

{{doneWhenLabel}}: At least two elevated resting spots are installed and accessible.

{{whyLabel}}: Urinary tract issues are often linked to stress from poor sanitation or competition in multi-cat homes.

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• Provide one more litter box than the number of cats (e.g., 2 boxes for 1 cat).
• Place boxes in quiet, low-traffic areas with multiple exit routes.
• Use unscented, fine-grained clumping litter to match feline preferences.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Correct number of boxes are placed in optimal locations.

{{whyLabel}}: Obesity is the #1 health threat to domestic cats, leading to diabetes, arthritis, and a shortened lifespan.

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• Use the RER formula: (Weight in kg ^ 0.75) * 70.
• Multiply by 1.2 for a neutered adult cat to find the daily calorie target.
• Use a digital kitchen scale to weigh food; never 'eyeball' portions.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: A specific daily gram/calorie target is written down and a scale is ready for use.

{{whyLabel}}: Cats have a low thirst drive and evolved to get water from prey; chronic dehydration from dry-only diets leads to kidney disease.

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• Select wet foods where the first three ingredients are named animal proteins (e.g., Chicken, Turkey).
• Aim for <10% carbohydrate content on a dry matter basis.
• Gradually mix new food with old over 7 days to avoid digestive upset.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The cat is successfully eating at least 75% wet food daily.

{{whyLabel}}: Running water is more attractive to cats and encourages higher intake, flushing the kidneys and bladder.

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• Place the fountain away from the food bowl (cats prefer separate water/food sources).
• Clean the fountain and replace filters every 2–4 weeks to prevent biofilm.
• Ensure the fountain is made of stainless steel or ceramic to prevent 'feline acne' from plastic bacteria.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Fountain is running and the cat is observed using it.

{{whyLabel}}: Cats are masters at hiding pain; regular blood work is the only way to detect early-stage organ decline.

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• Adults (1–7 years): Schedule once per year.
• Seniors (7+ years): Schedule every 6 months including blood pressure and thyroid checks.
• Request a 'Fear Free' certified clinic to minimize the stress of the visit.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Appointment is booked and marked in the calendar.

{{whyLabel}}: Periodontal disease affects 80% of cats and causes bacteria to enter the bloodstream, damaging the heart and kidneys.

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• Use only enzymatic pet toothpaste (human toothpaste is toxic).
• Start by letting the cat lick the paste from your finger for 3 days.
• Gradually introduce a soft finger brush, focusing on the outside of the upper molars.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Teeth are brushed at least 3 times per week.

{{whyLabel}}: Even indoor cats can contract heartworm (from mosquitoes) or tapeworms (from stray fleas), leading to sudden death or malnutrition.

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• Use a broad-spectrum topical or oral preventative recommended by your vet.
• Set a monthly recurring phone alert to ensure no doses are missed.
• Treat all pets in the household simultaneously to prevent cross-infestation.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: First dose is applied and a monthly reminder is set.

{{whyLabel}}: Play mimics the 'Hunt-Catch-Kill-Eat' cycle, preventing depression and maintaining muscle tone.

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• Use wand toys to mimic bird or mouse movements.
• Allow the cat to 'catch' the toy at the end of the session to prevent frustration.
• Follow the session immediately with a small meal or treat.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Play sessions are integrated into the daily morning and evening routine.

{{whyLabel}}: Early detection of lumps, weight changes, or dental redness can save lives.

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• Weigh the cat using a baby scale or by holding them on a human scale and subtracting your weight.
• Feel for new lumps, bumps, or sensitivity along the spine and abdomen.
• Check gums for redness and eyes for clarity.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: A health log is started with the first month's weight and findings.

{{whyLabel}}: Understanding feline psychology is key to preventing stress-induced illnesses and behavioral issues.

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• Focus on the chapters regarding 'Cat Mojo' and environmental confidence.
• Apply the 'Three-Point Challenge' for environmental enrichment mentioned in the book.
• Use the insights to decode your cat's body language and tail signals.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The book is read and at least three behavioral adjustments are implemented.