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With Valentine's Day approaching, what could be better than showing your cat you really love them? As loving cat parents, we want to show our cats that we love them in a way that they understand. Here are ten heart-warming approaches to enhance your bond and ensure your cat feels loved every day.

1. Spend Quality Time Together Each Day

Nothing says 'I love you' more than giving your undivided attention to your cat. Cats love spending time with us, and dedicating some time each day, out of your busy life, to spend with your cat is the simplest form of affection. Whether it’s playing with their favourite toy, reading a book, or simply sitting together and watching the world go by, the time you spend uninterrupted together is invaluable. Come the evenings, my own cats wait, eager to curl up on the sofa with us as soon as we sit down.

Establish a daily routine that includes dedicated moments with your cat and adapt activities to their age and energy levels. For some cats, just being in the same room as you is enough; even if they don't join you on the sofa, they're happy just being nearby. For older cats, gentle petting can mean the world, while younger, more energetic cats may appreciate interactive play.

Additional one-to-one 20-minute sessions are available at The Great Catsby for any cats who crave attention. Choose from a quiet, calming reading session, where we have uninterrupted quiet time to help reduce anxiety levels and promote calmness. Or, for the more active cat, a play session may be preferred. During this session, I introduce the cats to a range of interactive toys to encourage them to move around or burn off excess energy.

2. Grooming: A Stroke Of Affection

Grooming is not just about helping your cat look good or assisting them with maintaining their coat; it's a powerful bonding ritual. Regular brushing mimics cats' social grooming behaviour with their feline friends and family. It's a soothing experience that can reduce stress and anxiety while promoting healthier skin and fur.

There are a range of different types of grooming brushes available depending on their fur. However, not all cats enjoy the same brushes, so you may need to try a few types to see which your cat prefers. I like the Kong Zoom Groom, it's a rubber brush that can easily be cleaned, and the large rubber bristles don't damage the skin. A grooming glove is also another favourite amongst cats. Personally, I'm not a fan of the de-shedding combs; I find they can tug and pull at a cat's fur and often can do damage, which may be hidden by the fur. Instead; and they'll often rub against the brush where they want the bristles.

Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as your cat becomes more comfortable. Pay attention to their body language to ensure they're enjoying the experience. If your cat isn't keen, stop the session and try again another time. Always follow your cat's lead.

At The Great Catsby, I'm more than happy to give your cat a light groom if you bring your own brushes or combs. However, I will only lightly groom cats that are confident and happy to be groomed.

3. Special Treats: For a Taste Of Love

Treating your cat to a healthy snack or treat is an enjoyable way to show affection.

Most cats love Dreamies! And why wouldn't they? I mean, most kids love MacDonald's, but you wouldn't give them one every day, and it's the same for Dreamies.

If you do like to give your cats a daily treat, swap it for something more nutritious. Freeze-dried fish or meat treats are a great alternative as they are 100% protein, the same as dehydrated cat treats. Small pieces of raw or cooked chicken or fish are also a good alternative.

The excitement when they hear the treat bag rustleis usually a clear sign of their appreciation! Always introduce new treats gradually and in moderation to avoid upsetting their stomachs. Look for treats that are not only tasty but also nutritious, and check the recommended daily allowance!

4. Interactive Toys: Playtime with Purpose

Keeping cats stimulated is a sure sign of affection. Activating their natural hunting instincts through play is both fun and mentally stimulating. Interactive toys like wand toys, puzzle feeders, or interactive mice can provide hours of entertainment. These toys keep your cat physically active and challenge their problem-solving skills.

Introduce new toys regularly or rotate your feline friend's favourites to keep playtime fresh and exciting. Toys don't need to be expensive; a simple cardboard box, toilet roll tube, or string can provide just as much fun. Just remember to supervise your cat with the toys.

At The Great Catsby one of our most favourite toys are the Catnip Mice from Myshkas Toybox, they are irresistible and a definite cat pleaser.

5. Catify Your Space: A Cat-Friendly Environment

Cats will happily share our homes. They'll find space to relax or hide from unwanted visitors. They may prefer a chair under a table, the top of a cupboard, or a wardrobe instead of their own bed. But you could transform your home into a cat paradise with a few additions.

A scratch post is a must for allowing them to mark their scent, keep their claws trim and strengthen their limbs. But a scratch post won't be used if it's in the wrong place. Use a large, sturdy, free-standing scratch post or a wall-mounted one to encourage climbing. And if you like a good DIY project, make your own with some plastic pipes, sisal and a glue gun.

Cats love being high up, and a wall-mounted bed or platform will give them a space to retreat to, especially if you want to keep the tops of cupboards cat-free zones.

Some cats are lucky enough to have cat-safe spaces outside, either with specialist fencing products like Protect-A-Pet or with a catio. These are great for allowing indoor cats to be outside without any risks. If a catio isn't your thing, then a bed or perch near a window will keep your cats occupied, especially if you've lots of birds visiting. However, please don't encourage birds in your garden if your cats are allowed to roam outside. It might be nature, but their little 'presents' aren't pleasant.

6. Communicate with Care: Learn their language

Understanding your cat's body language and vocalizations can improve your relationship with it. Pay attention to the positions of their eyes, ears, tails, and even whiskers; these are all ways cats communicate with us.

Unlike dogs, a wagging tail for a cat can be either a sign of anger and upset, warning the other to back off, or it can be a sign of contentment, depending on how the tail is wagging and where it is from. The tip of the tail can be bent or gently swaying if the cat is happy but if the movement is from the base of the tail, then it's communicating something different.

I often hear owners telling me that their cat is unhappy or in a mood as their eyes are half closed and squinting. Although it may look like your cat is angry, it's actually a sign of affection, and they're hoping you'll reciprocate and make the same shape with your eyes. If you do, they'll usually start to slow-blink; if you do this back, they'll take it as a sign that you're happy and friendly. This is one trick to helping anxious or nervous cats settle in. If anyone saw me, they'd think I'd gone mad, but slow blinking really works to build trust with a cat.

7. Respect Their Space: Love From a Distance

One of the most loving things you can do for your cat is to respect their need for space and independence. If your cat walks away from a situation let them, they'll soon come back when curiosity takes over. Let your cat initiate contact, and try not to force them into situations they clearly don't like. This respect for their autonomy builds trust and can actually lead to more affectionate behaviour from your cat in the long run.

8. Affectionate Touch: The Power of Gentle Petting

Physical contact is a powerful way to express love to your cat, but it's important to do so on their terms. Most cats enjoy gentle petting on their cheeks, under the chin, and along the back. They may want to sniff you first before they allow you to touch them; this is where understanding the subtle signs of cat behaviour pays off. Pay attention to your cat's reactions and respect their preferences.

All cats are different, so they'll all have preferences for where and how they like to be stroked. Some cats may enjoy belly rubs and will let you, within reason, touch areas of their tummy. Others, although they display their tummy, won't appreciate being touched. The key is to be attentive and responsive to your cat's cues, ensuring that your touch is always a source of comfort and affection.

9. Prioritize Their Physical Health

Maintaining your cat’s physical health is fundamental to showing your love. This involves more than regular vet check-ups; it includes daily practices that keep your cat in top shape.

Feeding your cat a balanced diet suitable for their age, health status, and lifestyle can greatly impact their health. Cats are carnivores and naturally eat meat, look for high protein foods like Scrumbles dry food which offers over 75% protein content or their wet food has over 60% protein content compared to Felix or Whiskas which is typically made up of around 4% of meat or fish derivatives. Other high-protein foods are available, along with grain-free or even raw food. If you want to change your cat's diet, you can always consult your vet for recommendations that meet all their nutritional needs.

As cats age, their levels of physical activity can change. It's important to keep them fit and prevent them from becoming overweight. Helping cats stay active can be as simple as encouraging play sessions that stimulate jumping, chasing, and running. Or even using a ball puzzle feeder to make them work for their treats or dry food.

Cats typically need little water, but they need to stay hydrated. Many cats like a water fountain, as the running water can encourage them to drink more frequently. You can also add water to their wet food—just mix a drop or two into their usual wet food.

10. Focus on Their Mental Health

Just like their physical health, your cat's mental health is equally as important for its overall well-being. Cats need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and stress, which can lead to behavioural issues.

What better way to show your cats that you love them than with some stimulating challenges? This could be as simple as hiding their favourite treats or toys around the house for them to find.  Or if you have spare time, teach them a trick or command.  Many cats can play fetch or give a paw on demand.  Use praise and healthy treats as a positive way to reinforce these commands.

Although cats are often seen as solitary animals who prefer their independence, they do actually crave attention.  Having said that, each cat is different, and the level of social interaction they'll prefer will vary.  Some cats will be your shadow, by your side wherever you go. While others may be more reserved. By understanding your cat's needs, you can keep them mentally healthy.

How to show your cat you love them

Integrating these ten loving actions into your routine that'll create a nurturing environment that deepens your connection with your cat. Your efforts to understand and care for your cat enhance their well-being and strengthen the bond you share.

At The Great Catsby Cat Hotel, I mirror the affection you show at home by providing a loving and caring environment for your cats, ensuring they are safe, content and relaxed just as they would be at home.

If you'd like to book your cat's next stay at The Great Catbsy Cat Hotel, contact me. I'd be more than happy to chat about your cat's needs and see if I can care for them.