Last updated Jan 5, 2026
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
After the hectic holiday and the cat-friendly decorations are put away, it’s time to think about how you can enhance life and the environment for your felines. It’ll probably be easier to stick with their resolutions that our own!
1. Toys
Most of us have a pile of cat toys, leaving our kitties to pick and choose. Go through them and discard the ratty ones and rotate the ones at the bottom, launder those that are grungy. Pay attention to the ones your cat really likes and pick up a couple of replacements. Be more diligent about scheduling playtime, just 5 to 10 minutes a couple times a day will keep them stimulated.
2. Veterinarian visit
Cats are less likely to see a veterinarian regularly than dogs, so if it’s been a while, schedule an appointment. Younger cats should just need a basic exam, checking for dental issues and any lumps or bumps. Older kitties should have bloodwork done to check for kidney values and overall health.
Discuss which vaccines are necessary, given the age and lifestyle of your cats, i.e. rabies vaccines are required by law, but exceptions can be made for health issues. Indeed, rising veterinary costs are a concern but they can be mitigated with pet insurance and discussions with your veterinarian about necessary treatments and in-house payment plans.
3. Wash beds
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
We have about a dozen beds lying around the house. The cats rotate among them. It’s easy to just let them be but think of the build-up of dust and fur. Do your kitties a favor and freshen them up.
4. Check out new foods
Marketers seek brand loyalty and that can lead to fussiness and possible allergies. My cats eat a homemade raw diet, but I also supplement with a smorgasbord of foods to vary proteins and offer a change of menu. Cat food manufacturers have really gone out of their way to improve the selection of foods in terms of textures and flavors; do read the labels first.
They’re going beyond the bowl of kibble languishing on the floor; as a reminder for those with kibble addicts, dry food is the biggest contributor to obesity, diabetes, and urinary issues. For more information, go to Resources for Cat Nutrition.
5. Information
It’s one thing to “own” a cat, but it’s another thing to learn what goes into enhancing your relationship. While dogs need to be walked and played with, don’t mistake that feline sleeping in a sun puddle for not needing interaction and attention, or your ability to learn what makes her tick… or rather purr. Seek out feline-centric websites and experts, such as Cats.com, FearFree.com, Jackson Galaxy, Little Big Cat (Dr. Jean Hofve’s website), Amy Shojai, and of course, my book, “The Art of Raising a Kitten” and ExclusivelyCats.
6. Scratchers with a view
Melina Grin / Cats.com
Nothing will discourage your cat more from using her scratcher than placing it in an out-of-the-way corner. Indoor-only kitties need visual stimulation and placement in front of a window allows her to enjoy the view and summer breezes. As a bonus, a birder feeder can add extra interest. Choose a scratcher that allows your cat to stretch to her full length.
Be sure that the scratcher is sturdy; one that is unsteady or prone to tipping over is dangerous. The sisal and/or carpeting should be attached securely. Don’t limit your cat’s scratcher selections. Cardboard scratchers are inexpensive and can be found in various configurations. Few cats can resist them when laced with catnip. Place them all around the house, especially near where your cat naps, and by that tempting antique damask sofa.
7. Clip claws
Ideally, you should get your cat accustomed to regular claw clipping as a kitten. Although, it can be challenging, with patience, praise, and treats, you’ll both get through it unscathed. It’s easiest to position your kitty on the counter. Tuck her butt under your arm and gently press on her paw to expose the claw.
Snip off the tip taking care not to cut too deeply and expose the quick. I prefer a scissors-type clipper. Take a break if she’s too stressed and offer a treat. You may even have to break it down into a couple of sessions. When you’re done be sure to lavish praise and tell her what a good girl she is!
8. Thinking ahead to spring
For the uber ambitious, consider installing a catio. It can be as simple as an extension to a window or elaborate as a framed in outdoor space with perches and scratchers and lounge chairs for you. A google search offers a dizzying array in every configuration and price point.
As an alternative, a walking jacket or harness and leash provide a safe way to for your kitty to enjoy the outdoors. Take the time to get her used to the set-up before taking her outside. Strollers are yet another option; they’re great for city kitties and offer a safe option for outdoor enrichment,
9. Add to your feline family
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Better yet consider a bonded pair. We cat lovers are always experiencing “kitty lust” while scrolling through posts about sweet rescues needing homes. If you’re considering a purebred, it’s absolutely critical to research the breed best suited to your life style, and more so, the breeder; there are many backyard breeders with less than stellar agendas, so it’s critical to establish a relationship before you take possession and be prepared to wait a bit to ensure a well socialized kitten.
If you already have one or two cats, think about how a new addition would affect them and if you have enough space (vertical as well as horizontal) for everyone to spread out. Gradual introductions are always recommended
10. Don’t forget to tell your cat every day that you love her
Well, that goes without saying! A study from PetPartners.org finds that people indeed have incredibly close bonds with their cats. Little gestures such as the slow blink serves as a kitty kiss. Cats may not understand our language, but they do respond to the tone of our voices.
Since my cats are usually nearby (ensconced on my desk as I work, in front of a big picture window), I’m always babbling to them: “Kittens!” “Where’s your sister?” “Did you see those squirrelies?” “Do you know how much I love you?” I also respond to their meows: Zilya usually announces herself when entering the room and I often mimic her meows. “Really? Is that so?” Sofiya may not come bounding toward me when I say her name, but she always responds with a tail twitch or a “tail’s up” as she strolls by. It all points out to the subtlety of cat communication.
