Domestic shorthair

Popular amongst so many, the common domestic cat is usually very affectionate once they trust the humans around them.

It is suggested to play with your cat daily, as they are very energetic. An interactive game between cat and human serves to build strong bonds with the family.

Moments of rest are crucial for their mental and physical balance. It is important to offer your cat places to hide and observe from a height and even a bed in the sun for their daily dose of sunbathing…

Overall alley cats are curious animals. Contrary to popular belief it is possible to train your cat to behave in a certain manner. Training sessions are a great way of bonding with your cat as well as offering them both mental and physical stimulation.

This characteristic is developed throughout the life of the animal, in particular during the period of socialisation as a kitten. Thus, some individuals are more fearful than others. That said, it is still possible to help fearful cats by letting them discover strangers at their own pace and not imposing unwanted contact.

Many cats are independent and can cope with loneliness. However, it is important to always listen to the needs of your cat. Age, life history and medical conditions are all factors that can influence the independence of an animal.

Some cats are more talkative than others, but one thing is certain: being attentive to your cat’s communication contributes to the development of this behaviour. However, there are moments when you can completely ignore a your cat’s call, for example in the middle of the night. Thus, the cat learns to modulate their meows according to the context and time of the day.

Cats all need physical activity to stay in good physical and mental health. From one individual to another, this need can vary according to the age, the medical condition and the personality of the cat. To support an active lifestyle, daily play sessions can be combined with walks on a lead.

It is difficult to predict the likelihood of a cat running away, but unfortunate disappearances can certainly be avoided by training the animal to walk with a leash and harness. Thus, outdoor expeditions are both stimulating and safe.

An active cat may tend to eat more than a sedentary cat, it is also possible for a bored cat to use food to combat the monotony of daily life. The use of interactive bowls is a simple solution to provide a fun activity for your cat, while slowing down the pace at which they eat their food.

The relationship between alley cats or between an alley cat and a purebred cat can be positive and healthy. The key is to gradually introduce the cats to one another. It is also imperative that the many resources (food, bedding, etc.) are available to all the cats in the household so their needs are met and they can avoid conflict.

The cohabitation of a domestic cat with a dog is quite possible, but it is important to introduce them to each other gradually, respecting the limits of each and watching their body language. A home with high points or cat trees facilitates cohabitation by offering the cat the opportunity to flee unwanted encounters. The way the kitten has been socialised has a great influence on their ability to live with dogs.

It goes without saying that introductions must be carried out with care and understanding. You should never force it. On the contrary, taking the time needed to properly introduce the two, will be a good lesson for the children.

Historically, the domestic cat has often been a good companion for rather calm and lonely people. You just have to remember that every adopter must be able to take care of their cat's needs.