FAQ: Supplies for cats

Buy from trustworthy shops and be cautious if the price is much lower than elsewhere. Counterfeit parasite treatments, for example, can be ineffective or even dangerous.

Yes, reviews tell you how a product holds up over time, for example whether a cat tree wobbles or a carrier's zip is strong. Still, every cat is different, and what one cat disliked may suit yours.

Prices can change on any day because of promotions, supplier prices or stock levels. So before a bigger purchase, check the price on the same day.

Many shops offer free delivery above a certain amount or volume discounts, so ordering several items at once can pay off. Still, check whether individual items are much cheaper elsewhere.

Photograph the damage and the packaging before using the product and contact the shop as soon as possible. Do not feed your cat from damaged food packs or bulging cans.

A repeat order is convenient and sometimes discounted, but it is worth comparing prices with other shops now and then. Also make sure the order is easy to change or pause if your cat's needs change.

If prices are similar, compare delivery times, returns terms and the product's shelf life or warranty. Sometimes it is worth paying a little more for faster delivery when food or litter is running out.

Each cat needs its own food and water bowls, and it is recommended to have one more litter box than there are cats. Plenty of resting places, hiding spots and scratching posts also matter, so the cats do not compete.

At first keep the new cat in a separate room and let the cats get to know each other by smell, swapping beds or toys. Only when they react calmly, allow short supervised meetings and gradually make them longer.

Conflict can be caused by stress, unfamiliar smells, for example when one cat returns from the vet, illness or competition for resources. Check that each cat has enough places of its own, and discuss sudden aggression with your vet.

Some friendly cats share happily, but most are more comfortable with several resting and scratching spots in different rooms. This reduces competition and stress.

Resources spread across different places, high spots where cats can watch their surroundings and hiding places all help. Some owners also find pheromone diffusers useful, but they do not replace a well set-up environment.

Some cats benefit from a companion, especially young and playful ones, but others are happier alone. Consider your cat's personality and be prepared for the cats to take time to become friends.

Usually all the cats in the home need treating at the same time, otherwise fleas pass from one cat to another. Choose the product for each cat by its weight and age as the label says, and vacuum and wash the beds.

Yes, litter needs cleaning more often and beds and blankets washing more regularly, because there is more hair and smell. A more powerful vacuum cleaner and lint rollers also help.

This is called resource guarding: the dominant cat blocks the other's way. Several bowls and litter boxes in different rooms help, so the shyer cat can reach them without running into the other.

Most cats are best off staying at home with a trusted person visiting every day, since cats cope poorly with a change of surroundings. Another option is a cattery, which is worth visiting and booking in advance.

A healthy adult cat can be alone for a working day or a night, but leaving it unattended for more than a day is not recommended. Even with an automatic feeder, someone should check that the cat is well and has water and clean litter.

Visit in advance and check the cleanliness, whether cats are kept away from dogs, whether each has its own space and whether vaccinations are required. Bring the cat's own food and something that smells of home to help it stay calm.

Leave enough food and litter, clear feeding instructions, your vet's contact details and your phone number. Say where the carrier is and which of the cat's habits are normal, so the sitter can spot if something is wrong.