Gift Ideas for Your Feline Friend

The holidays are upon us! Have you finished shopping for your feline friend? If you need a last-minute gift for your cat, you’re in luck. Read on as your Carteret County, NC veterinarian offers a few gift ideas for your feline companion. 

Cat Toys

Just about every cat loves to play with her favorite toys. Because cats love to exercise their natural stalking and hunting instincts, toys that mimic prey animals are usually a hit. Look for toys like a fake mouse on a string—your cat will probably go wild. Or, you can make your own cat toy with materials you already have. 

Cat Treats

We’re willing to bet your feline friend will love a hefty bag of new cat treats. It’s important that you don’t go overboard on treats, though, as it can contribute to obesity. And do your best to find a treat type that gives your pet a health benefit of some kind. There are treats made to improve dental health or boost your cat’s coat quality, for example. That way, you can give your pet treats without guilt! 

Catnip

There are few things our cats go crazier for than catnip. It’s your feline friend’s favorite plant! There is “raw” catnip that can be sprinkled over toys or just on the floor, and there are also toys, sprays, and other products with catnip infused into them. Your cat might dart to and fro in an excited manner, or simply stretch out in a state of ecstasy, when exposed to the stuff.

Cats react to catnip because of a substance it contains called nepetalactone, which triggers a chemical response in Fluffy’s brain. This reaction is perfectly healthy and won’t cause your cat harm at all—feel free to use catnip on your pet as often as you’d like. And if your cat doesn’t respond to it, don’t worry. It turns out that cats need a particular gene, inherited from their parents, to feel the effects of the herb.

Cat Tower

Does your cat have a cat tower? These structures have multiple platforms that cats love to jump and climb on, and many have scratching posts and toys built into them. It’s a great way to keep your cat occupied and well-exercised, even when you’re not home. 

We’re here for all of your cat’s care needs in the New Year. Make an appointment with your Carteret County, NC vet clinic!