Are Cats Really “Low Maintenance” Pets? The Answer May Surprise You!

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Three Myths About Cat Care That Every Pet Parent Should Know

Last week on the Pet Parent Guide, I shared a checklist for new puppy owners and discussed their care needs. Originally, I planned for this week’s blog post to be a “Kitten Care Checklist,” but I found myself thinking, “That’s not needed… cats aren’t as high-maintenance as dogs.”

However, as I reflected on that thought, I realized that kittens and cats are complex animals — and not necessarily as “low-maintenance” as many people believe.

In this post, we’ll explore three myths about feline care and what proper care for an indoor cat should actually look like.

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MYTH #1: Cats Don’t Need as Much Medical Care as Dogs

This myth is especially frustrating to those of us in the veterinary community.
Studies have shown that pet cats visit the veterinarian less than half as often as dogs do.

The reasons behind this trend are likely multifactorial: lack of owner education, anxiety about transporting or handling cats, and the feline tendency to hide illness until it becomes severe.

In reality, cats need just as much preventative care as their canine counterparts.
This includes:

• A full series of kitten vaccinations (usually 3–4 sets from ~8-16 weeks of age),
• Spaying or neutering,
• And semi-annual or annual wellness examinations with a veterinarian.

You could even argue that cats should visit the vet more frequently than dogs, because their stoic nature makes early detection of illness more challenging.

Worried about how your cat will handle a vet visit?
Consider:

• Getting a pet carrier that has an easy open top and sides, so that you can get your kitty in and out easily,
• Positive reinforcement to make the carrier a safe space (such as treats or catnip),
• Feliway diffusers or sprays,
• Or speaking with your vet about pre-visit pharmaceuticals (PVPs) to help reduce anxiety during car rides and appointments!
  
  Your kitty will thank you!

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MYTH #2: Cats Don’t Need as Much Attention as Dogs

This myth is not only incorrect — it can be harmful. It assumes that because cats are often independent, they don’t benefit from human companionship.

Recently, a social media post went viral showing a sweet black cat in a shelter. The cat, purring and kneading, had a heartbreaking note on the door: “I was returned because I wanted to cuddle too much at night.”

While every cat is different, many love spending time with people, receiving affection, and even cuddling – sometimes with other animals! The difference between dogs and cats isn’t necessarily the amount of affection they need, but how and when they accept it.

Please don’t mistake a cat’s independence for indifference. ❤️

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MYTH #3: You Don’t Need to Play With or Exercise a Cat

Sadly, I see overweight cats almost daily on social media (an in the veterinary clinic). This is a serious health crisis, as obesity in cats can lead to serious health issues like joint disease and diabetes.

Because many cats are kept exclusively indoors, it’s critical that they aren’t overfed — and that they get regular exercise.

One of the best ways to exercise your cat? Play!
Use toys like:

• Laser pointers,
• Feather wands,
• Or other interactive toys that mimic hunting instincts.
  I recommend at least 10 minutes of active play per cat per day — though some cats would love much more!

If your cat is more of a couch potato, get creative:

• Place food bowls in different areas around the house to encourage movement,
• Invest in cat trees or climbing shelves,
• Use puzzle feeders to stimulate both mind and body.

A little creativity goes a long way toward helping your cat stay fit and happy.

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Now you know the truth behind three common myths about cats being “low maintenance.” Remember: your feline friend needs veterinary care, attention, and exercise just as much as any other beloved pet.

Comment below and tell us your experience with these myths!
What do you do at home to keep your cat active and healthy?

For more information, I highly recommend checking out the Ohio State University Indoor Pet Initiative, an incredible resource for enriching the lives of indoor cats.