How to make your cat happier

Cats are wonderfully mysterious creatures. One minute they’re purring on your lap, the next they’re staring at ✨nothing ✨. But while cats may feel completely unknowable at times, their happiness actually comes down to a few surprisingly simple things.

Here’s how to keep your cat feeling safe, understood and content. 

Despite their impressive hunting skills, in the wild cats are also prey. And because they’re solo operators, their instinct when something feels off is very clear: run first, ask questions never.

This is why your cat disappears the moment the doorbell rings or why that cardboard box is suddenly the most valuable object in your home.

What helps?

• Boxes (always boxes)

• Covered beds and hideaways

• Shelves, cat trees and perches

Cats love being up high. It gives them an aerial view of their kingdom, lets them spot danger (or just Nibbles) early, and makes them feel wonderfully in control. And a cat who feels safe is a cat who feels happy.

Your cat is talking to you, just not with words. And not always very loudly.

Cats communicate mostly through body language: tails, ears, eyes, posture, tiny shifts you might miss if you’re not looking. 

When we learn their signals, we avoid misunderstandings, like continuing to stroke when the tail is saying absolutely not, and that helps protect the bond you share.

Cats are masters of subtle communication: a slow blink here, a slight ear flick there. 

Humans aren’t naturally brilliant at picking up these cues, but we can get better. Watching closely helps you understand what your cat needs in the moment: space, play, reassurance or simply to be left alone.

Being chosen as the human they come to when they want comfort is worth the effort.

Every cat has their own personality, shaped by genetics, experience and environment. Even cats of the same breed can be wildly different, which is why expectations like ‘all cats love cuddles’ tend to end in mild disappointment.

Reading your cat’s body language, instead of assuming what they should enjoy, helps them feel seen and understood. Which, naturally, they expect.

Cats aren’t static creatures. Their behaviour can change with age, environment, stress or discomfort, and often, these changes are the first sign that something isn’t quite right.

If your cat starts acting differently, they’re communicating the only way they know how.

Noticing these shifts early means you can step in, support them and keep them feeling their best.

To your cat, you are enormous. You move quickly. You speak loudly. Occasionally, you trip over nothing.

Moving more slowly, speaking softly and being predictable helps your cat feel safe. Calm humans make calm cats (calmer, anyway). 

Cats can absolutely be trained, and many enjoy it far more than they let on.

Training gives cats a shared language with us. When the rules are clear and the rewards are good, they feel confident, secure and understood.

Positive reinforcement is the way to go: treats, toys, praise or gentle affection. Choose whatever makes your cat think, “ah yes. This is worth my time.”

Even already-happy cats can become happier with training. Because feeling clever is very on-brand for cats.

No cat wakes up excited for the vet. But a little preparation goes a long way.

Make the carrier familiar and comfortable and use treats generously. Cover the carrier to block stressful sights and carry it steadily.

If you notice changes in behaviour, especially repetitive ones, don’t assume your cat is being naughty. These are often signs of pain, discomfort or stress.

Source: American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. Decoding Your Cat: The Ultimate Experts Explain Common Cat Behaviors and Reveal How to Prevent or Change Unwanted Ones. Meghan E. Herron, Debra F. Horwitz, Carlo Siracusa (eds.). HarperCollins and Blackstone Publishing, 2020.

A well-fed cat is a happy cat, and it’s amazing what good food can do. Fresh meals mean more bounce in their step, softer, glossier coats and happier tummies (with a far less stinky litter tray, so your nose is happier, too). No wonder 95% of cat parents notice health improvements after switching to KatKin. And when cats are healthier, they feel happier too.