Cat Care
The everyday basics done well: litter, food and water, grooming, vet visits and a home that suits a cat. Practical, checked against veterinary sources, and written for real households.
What this section covers
- Litter boxes and litter
- Food, water and hydration
- Grooming and nail care
- Vet visits and preventive care
- Indoor and outdoor safety
New guides are being added. In the meantime, the answers below cover the questions we hear most.
Common cat care questions
How many litter boxes do I need, and how often should I clean them?
The general rule is one box per cat plus one extra, kept in separate spots. Scoop at least once a day, and wash the box every 1 to 4 weeks with soap and hot water only. Aim for a box about 1.5 times your cat’s length from nose to the base of the tail; many commercial boxes are too small.
How much water does a cat need each day?
Cornell’s guideline is about 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of lean body weight a day, roughly one cup for a 10-pound cat. Food counts toward it: wet food can be up to 80% water, so cats on wet food may drink less from the bowl. Some cats drink more from a fountain, but preferences vary.
How often should I brush my cat and trim their nails?
The ASPCA suggests one or two brushings a week for most cats, and every few days for long-haired cats to prevent tangles. Trim nails every 10 to 14 days, cutting only the white tip and avoiding the pink quick. The ASPCA strongly discourages declawing.
How often should my cat see the vet?
Every cat needs a full physical exam at least once a year, according to the AAHA/AAFP guidelines, and senior cats (10 and older) at least every 6 months.
We’re cat owners, not veterinarians. This information is general; for anything about your own cat’s health, please talk to your vet.
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