Cats may seem independent, but they need more than just food and a litter box to thrive. The right accessories can make your feline friend happier and your life as a pet parent much easier.
From toys that satisfy their hunting instincts to grooming tools that keep fur off your furniture, these must-have items will transform your relationship with your whiskered companion.
1. Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Forget the daily scooping ritual! Self-cleaning litter boxes automatically separate waste from clean litter after your cat does their business.
These technological marvels not only save time but also keep odors contained, making your home smell fresher. Some models even track your cat’s bathroom habits, alerting you to potential health issues before they become serious problems.
2. Vertical Cat Tree
Cats naturally love heights! A tall cat tree satisfies their climbing instincts while giving them a safe perch to survey their domain.
Look for sturdy models with multiple platforms, hiding spots, and scratching posts built in. Your furniture will thank you as kitty redirects their scratching to appropriate surfaces, and you’ll notice a happier, more confident cat with their own territory.
3. Interactive Laser Toy
Red dots create instant feline frenzy! Interactive laser toys provide mental stimulation and physical exercise, especially for indoor cats who need to burn energy.
Many modern versions operate automatically with random patterns to keep cats guessing. Just remember to end play sessions with a physical toy your cat can actually ‘catch’ to prevent frustration. Regular play reduces behavior problems and keeps your kitty at a healthy weight.
4. Microchip-Activated Feeder
Multi-cat households face unique feeding challenges. Microchip feeders solve the problem by opening only for specific cats wearing matching collar tags or with implanted microchips. No more food stealing or dietary confusion!
These smart devices ensure each cat receives their proper portion and special diet food. Perfect for homes where one cat needs weight management while another needs unrestricted access to nutrition.
5. Grooming Glove
Transform brushing from chore to bonding time with grooming gloves! Silicone nodules gently remove loose fur while feeling like a massage to your cat.
Even brush-resistant cats often enjoy the feeling of being petted with these gloves. Regular grooming reduces hairballs, keeps your cat’s coat healthy, and minimizes fur on furniture. Plus, the collected fur peels off the glove in one satisfying sheet!
6. Window Perch
Sunny spots are prime feline real estate! Window perches attach securely to glass using suction cups or window frame mounts, creating the perfect cat TV station.
Your curious kitty can safely watch birds, squirrels, and neighborhood activity for hours. Many models support over 30 pounds and fold up when not in use. For apartments or homes with limited floor space, window perches provide vertical territory without sacrificing square footage.
7. Water Fountain
Flowing water appeals to cats’ natural instincts! Many cats drink more from fountains than still bowls, helping prevent urinary tract issues.
Modern fountains include replaceable filters that remove impurities and hair while keeping water fresh for days. The gentle bubbling sound also attracts cats who might otherwise ignore hydration. Look for dishwasher-safe models with multiple water flow options to find what your cat prefers.
8. Puzzle Feeders
Mealtime should engage natural hunting instincts! Puzzle feeders transform eating from a passive activity into a stimulating game that slows down fast eaters. Cats work to extract kibble by pawing, pushing, or manipulating various components.
This mental exercise prevents boredom and reduces destructive behaviors. Start with simpler puzzles before advancing to complex designs, gradually building your cat’s problem-solving confidence while making mealtimes more engaging.
9. Heated Cat Bed
Warmth-seeking felines adore heated beds! These cozy retreats maintain a temperature slightly above room temperature, mimicking the comfort cats would find snuggling with littermates.
Especially beneficial for senior cats with arthritis or thin cats who struggle to maintain body heat. Many models use minimal electricity with automatic shut-offs for safety. The gentle warmth encourages deeper sleep and can help ease joint pain during cold months.
10. Catnip-Filled Kicker Toys
Long, stuffed kicker toys satisfy your cat’s natural instinct to grab prey with front paws while kicking with powerful back legs. Filled with potent catnip, these toys encourage healthy exercise while providing a safe outlet for hunting behaviors.
The elongated shape allows cats to really stretch out during play. Durable models withstand repeated rabbit kicks and biting, lasting much longer than smaller toys.
11. Calming Pheromone Diffuser
Synthetic feline facial pheromones create an invisible zone of calm! These diffusers mimic the natural scents cats leave when rubbing their cheeks against objects.
Particularly helpful during stressful events like moving, introducing new pets, or during thunderstorms. The odorless vapor signals to cats that the environment is safe and familiar. Many veterinarians recommend these diffusers for reducing spraying, hiding, and other anxiety-related behaviors.
12. Sturdy Scratching Post
Claw maintenance isn’t optional for cats! A proper scratching post should be tall enough for full stretching and stable enough not to wobble.
Sisal fabric provides ideal texture for satisfying scratches while being more durable than carpet. Strategic placement near furniture your cat currently targets can redirect scratching to appropriate surfaces. Regular use keeps claws healthy and removes dead outer sheaths naturally.
13. Cat Backpack Carrier
Adventure cats need special transportation! Modern cat backpacks feature ventilation windows, comfortable padding, and secure closures for safe travels. Unlike traditional carriers, backpacks free your hands while keeping your cat visible and comfortable.
Perfect for vet visits, hiking, or simply giving indoor cats safe outdoor experiences. Look for models with expandable sections that give cats more room to move when stationary.