FAQ: Supplies for cats

Usually not: the coat protects a cat from both heat and sun. For long-haired cats regular brushing matters more, and clipping is only needed for mats, ideally done by a professional groomer.

Keep the cat indoors before fireworks start, close the windows and draw the curtains. Set up a hiding place in the quietest room and let it hide there without forcing it out.

A cat can knock the tree over, swallow tinsel or break glass baubles. Secure the tree firmly, use shatterproof decorations without tinsel and do not let the cat drink the water in the tree stand.

Indoors cats usually find the warmest spot themselves, but they like beds by the radiator or on the windowsill above it. A cat that spends time outdoors needs a dry shelter protected from the wind.

Cats naturally change their coat in spring and autumn, so they shed more. More frequent brushing reduces the hair around the home and the hairballs the cat swallows.

Ticks become active in early spring once temperatures rise above a few degrees and stay active until late autumn. Fleas can breed indoors all year round, so it is worth making a prevention plan with your vet.

In cold weather outdoor cats like to crawl under car bonnets, where the engine keeps them warm. Knock on the bonnet before starting the car so any cat has time to get out.

Dry air can dry out a cat's skin and increase static in its coat. Several water bowls, wet food and a humidifier help, but if the cat starts getting a lot of dandruff or scratching, talk to your vet.

Unspayed cats often come into heat: they yowl loudly, roll around and try to get outside, while tomcats start marking territory. If you are not breeding, discuss spaying or neutering with your vet.

Long-haired cats need brushing daily or every few days to prevent mats, while short-haired cats need it about once a week. Long-haired cats also more often need help with hairballs.

Yes, large cats need a roomier litter box, a taller and more stable cat tree, a wider bed and a bigger carrier. When buying, check not only the dimensions but also the maximum weight.

Hairless cats get cold more easily, so warm beds and sometimes clothing are useful, and their skin needs regular cleaning because oil builds up on it. In summer their skin needs protecting from the sun.

Flat-faced cats often need daily cleaning around the eyes, find wide, shallow bowls easier, and their long coat needs daily brushing. They are more sensitive to heat, so a cool spot matters in summer.

Care for mixed-breed cats is usually the same; their needs depend more on coat length, size, age and activity. Choose items to suit your particular cat rather than a breed.

Bengals, Abyssinians and Siamese, for example, are considered more active and need more play, climbing places and mental challenges. Calmer breeds such as British Shorthairs or Persians value peace and a comfortable bed more.

Male cats are often bigger, so they may need a roomier litter box and carrier. Unneutered males tend to mark territory, so neutering usually solves more problems than any purchase.

Put a sturdy scratching post next to the furniture the cat scratches and near where it wakes up, since cats like to stretch after sleeping. Cover the furniture temporarily with slippery fabric or double-sided tape, and praise the cat when it uses the post.

Pheromone diffusers and sprays mimic scents that calm cats and help some cats feel less stressed, for example when moving house or when a new animal arrives. They do not work for every cat and do not replace dealing with the cause of behaviour or health problems.

The cause may be a health problem, dirty or disliked litter, a poor box location or stress. Talk to your vet first, since urinary tract disease is a common cause of this behaviour.

Usually the cat is playing like a hunter, especially if people played with it using their hands as a kitten. Play with a wand or toys, keeping your hands away, and stop the game when the cat bites.