Cats are more independent than dogs day-to-day, but that doesn't mean lower-maintenance in every way. Here's what actually matters.
Feeding basics
Most adult cats do well on two measured meals a day rather than free feeding, which helps you notice appetite changes early — often the first sign something's wrong. See our cat feeding guide for more detail.
Litter box habits
Cats are naturally clean animals, and litter box problems are usually a signal, not a personality trait:
- Not enough boxes — one per cat, plus one extra, in different locations.
- Box too dirty — scoop daily, and fully change litter regularly.
- Stress or medical issues — sudden litter box avoidance is a common early sign of a urinary problem, especially in male cats, and is worth a vet visit rather than waiting it out.
Scratching is normal — redirect it, don't stop it
Scratching is a natural behavior cats need for claw health and marking territory. Give them an appealing scratching post near where they already try to scratch, rather than trying to eliminate the behavior entirely.
Health care essentials
- Vaccinations and deworming, especially in the first year.
- Spay/neuter, timed with your vet's guidance.
- Indoor vs. outdoor — indoor cats generally live longer and face fewer risks from traffic, disease, and predators.
- Annual check-ups — cats are good at hiding illness, so regular vet visits catch problems earlier than waiting for obvious symptoms.
You can find a vet near you on Pawly.
What to expect early on
New cats — especially adopted adults — often need a quiet adjustment period before showing their real personality. Give them a small space at first, let them approach you rather than forcing interaction, and be patient. Most cats settle in within a few weeks.