When Did We Become Such A Nation of Cat Lovers?

Research conducted by IPSOS for Whiskas has revealed that we are a nation of cat lovers with a third of Irish homes responsible for over 833,000 pet cats. 77% of Irish cat owners believe that their feline friend understands their moods. The research also revealed that over three quarters of cat owners think their cat helps to prevent stress and 83% consider their cat a great source of companionship. With 78% of cats in Ireland joining families as kittens, it is crucial that Irish cat owners understand how to give them the best nutritional start, this first cat life stage a vital time to build immunity and encourage growth. However the research shows that half of Ireland’s kittens are not receiving age specific food and may be missing out on vital nutrients. Similarly almost two thirds of cat owners think that their cat can look after itself and 74% are confident their pet is just how it should be but again research shows that adult cats need to be supported with nutritious food, packed with balanced minerals to help them fight off infections. Similarly senior cats, those seven years and up, may be more prone to illness and disease due to a deteriorating immune system and need the right nutritional support to help fight issues with vision, heart and kidneys. Cat behaviourist Sandra McCune, who joined Matt on The Last Word to talk about the survey, has shared some useful tips to ensure your cat, no matter what life stage, can carry on living a happy and healthy life. 1. Playing with your cat is a great way to mature the natural instincts of younger cats and stimulate their behavioural development. It is also a great way to keep older cats fit. Joining in these games will form a bond that'll last a lifetime. Something as simple as a paper ball can provide endless hours of fun. Another good idea is to hang something on a length of wool and keep moving it as she tries to catch it. 2. Cats are night-time hunters and this instinct won't be upset by regular daytime feeding but allow your cat to hunt. The "prey" doesn't have to be a real-life bird or a mouse, but simply a cat toy. 3. Indoor cats in particular need a lot of stimulation. Food can become a huge part of that motivation. With dry food you can keep their feeding routines exciting by hiding food up high or in little devices that they can discover.