Cat Tips

How to Keep Your Indoor Cat Happy and Active

March 14, 2025 by Michelle Bedard

A closeup shot a fluffy black and white cat playing with a blue knitted mouse

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is always looking for ways to educate our readers, pet owners, and staff on ways to improve the lives of our feline friends. So we are dedicating our latest blog to the cats out there who want everyone to know how to keep your indoor cat happy and active!

We Speak from Personal Experience

As a multi-cat household, our cats have a variety of personalities, but one common trait is that our cats get bored and need to be stimulated.

We have the typical cat trees with hanging balls, toys with feather, lights, movement, and tunnels. But when we notice the cats knocking pens off the desks, rubbing up against us for much needed attention and affection, leaving us “presents”, and lying around more than usual, we know we need to step up our cat game and provide some more indoor stimulation.

Aside from the empty Amazon box that they love more than the toys we bought for them, here are some fun ways to keep your indoor cat happy and active, prevent boredom and obesity, and eliminate behavioral issues.

9 Tips for a Happy Cat

1. Provide Plenty of Toys

Cats love to play and having a variety of toys helps keep them mentally and physically engaged. Interactive toys such as feather wands, laser pointers, and motorized mice mimic the movements of prey and encourage natural hunting instincts. Rotating toys regularly prevents boredom and keeps your cat interested.

2. Create Vertical Space

Cats love to climb and perch in high places. Investing in cat trees, shelves, or window perches gives your cat a chance to survey their environment from above, which provides both exercise and mental stimulation. If space allows, a cat tower with multiple levels and scratching posts can be a great addition to your home.

3. Engage in Interactive Play

Spending time playing with your cat strengthens your bond and helps them burn off excess energy. Wand toys with feathers or cat safe strings, balls, and puzzle feeders are great tools for interactive play. Aim for at least two 10-15 minute play sessions a day to keep your cat engaged and active.

4. Offer Scratching Posts and Pads

Scratching is a natural and necessary behavior for cats. Providing multiple scratching surfaces, such as posts, mats, or cardboard scratchers, helps keep their claws healthy and prevents them from scratching furniture. Place scratchers in areas where your cat naturally likes to scratch.

5. Introduce Food Puzzles and Treat Dispensers

Instead of simply offering food in a bowl, use food puzzles or treat-dispensing toys to make mealtime more engaging. These tools encourage problem-solving skills, slow down eating, and provide mental stimulation. You can also hide small portions of food around the house to encourage foraging behavior.

6. Give Them a View of the Outdoors

Even if your cat stays indoors, they can still enjoy watching the outside world. A window perch or cat hammock near a window allows them to observe birds, squirrels, and other outdoor activities. You can also install a bird feeder outside the window to provide extra entertainment.

7. Provide Safe Outdoor Access

If possible, consider creating a safe outdoor space, such as a catio (a secure outdoor enclosure) or leash training your cat for supervised outdoor adventures. This allows your cat to experience fresh air and new sights while staying protected from dangers like traffic and predators.

8. Offer a Cozy and Enriching Environment

Cats love cozy hideaways and soft bedding. Providing cat caves, blankets, and enclosed spaces helps them feel safe and comfortable. Additionally, rotating new scents (such as catnip, silver vine, or fresh herbs) can add excitement to their environment.

9. Keep Their Routine Consistent

Cats thrive on routine, so maintaining a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and bedtime helps them feel secure. A stable environment reduces stress and promotes a happy, well-adjusted pet.

By implementing these strategies, you can ensure that your indoor cat stays happy, active, and healthy. A well-stimulated cat is a content cat, and with the right enrichment, your feline companion will enjoy a fulfilling and joyful life indoors.

The Secret to Understanding Cat Behavior

October 23, 2024 by Michelle Bedard

Felines, the mysterious creatures that lure many of us to love them by their distinctive “meows,” head batting, or body rubs against us, are often misunderstood. So what is the secret to understanding cat behavior? Our professionals in charge of our cat boarding programs at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa shared some insight with us.

Cats Really Do Like Their Owners

In the competitive war of dogs vs cats, cats are often criticized for being finicky and not liking their owners where dogs are stereotyped for liking everyone!

But studies show that cats really do love their owners, just as much as dogs love theirs. Cats tend to gravitate toward the voice of their owners, often seeking them out simply through the sounds their humans make (source).

Cat owners don’t need proof their fur babies like them and resist the notion that they are only used as a source for food. Ask any cat owner to share stories with you about their cat running toward them to greet them, snuggling up with them on a cold winter’s day, or jumping on their computer during a writing session to demand attention.

“Only dog people believe the notion that cats are merely calculating fur balls who manipulate humans for the sake of a fresh plate of pate’,” jokes Sammie, who works with our cats on a daily basis.

“Cats show affection in a more elegant manner,” states Michael Gamache, owner of The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa. “They are descendants of wild cats from Africa which were solitary cats. This is a stark contradiction from dogs who prefer to show their love and affection by bounding in wildly, jumping all over their owners and covering them with kisses.”

Cats Demonstrate their Anger by Purposely Vomiting in High-Traffic Areas

Cat owners commonly discuss the occurrence of cat vomit often left in high-traffic areas. Be it fur balls, blades of grass, or undigested food, cats tend to puke and leave it for their humans to find it.

But why do cats vomit? Dog owners swear the vomit is a means to show their disdain for their humans, the dog they share the home with, their dislike of the new food, or just to irritate anyone in their path.

Truth be told, cats often vomit because they are upset. “Behavioral disorders are influenced by the immune system, and the immune system is influenced by the gut,” says Dr. Carlo Siracusa of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. So while our cats can show how cantankerous they are, their vomitous misgivings are often due to feeling upset, depressed, misunderstood, abandoned, scared, nervous or any number of feelings.

“Pay particular attention to the frequency of the mess,” adds Michael. “We don’t want to dismiss a medical condition, but we also like to rule out behavioral reasons for our felines leaving a mess of saliva filled grass or food.”

Cats Retain Memories and Dream

Cat owners never doubted the intelligence of their felines. Dr. Siracusa does confer that cats retain memories and dream. This may explain why a cat is hesitant to be in a situation or place that he or she has had a bad experience, such as a carrier or the vet or the groomer. At the same time, they will also be open to reliving positive experiences such as special nap time with their preferred people or friends.

Watching a cat sleep often results in seeing their paws move back and forth in a running motion, viewing their mouths twitch much like they do when “talking” to birds, or suddenly jolting awake.

“Going over the day’s events and storing things in their memory banks,” is the source of dreams cites Karen Hiestand, clinical veterinarian of the University of Sussex. “There’s no reason to think their brains would work so differently to ours in that respect.”

Choose The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa for Your Cat Boarding Needs

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa is known for our state-of-the-art cat boarding facilities. Our four-level cat accommodations come with all the comforts of home and plenty of space to perch, play, and relax.

Our fresh, bright cat room is separated from our canine guests for an atmosphere of peace and calmness kitties prefer.

Why Does My Cat Rub Against Me?

July 31, 2024 by Michelle Bedard

Cat Expresses Affection Through Leg Rubbing, Marking Territory And Showing Trust. This Behavior Signifies Comfort, Creating A Bond Between Feline And Human. Cartoon Vector Illustration

When The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa has the pleasure of boarding our clients’ cats, we often fall in love! Soft purrs, gentle nose bumps, tiny meows, the occasional reach out with the paw, and soft, full body rubs us often melt our hearts.

More often than not, our visiting cats rub against us, which led us to share with the simple answer to the question, Why Does My Cat Rub Against Me?

Top Reasons Your Cat Rubs Against You

Cats are pretty clear about their intentions, and their needs are few. When a cat rubs its body against you, it is trying to communicate with you. Here are the Top Reasons Your Cat Rubs Against You:

Communication Through Physical Touch

Cats use body language as their primary means of communication. When a cat rubs against you, which is also called bunting or head butting it is showing affection towards you.

Consider rubbing as cat speak for “I love you,” “I’m happy and content,” and “I care about you.” It’s their way of communicating how secure they feel and reinforcing their bond with you.

Marking Territory

Cats rub against you to mark their territory. Cats have scent glands located around their head, cheeks, and base of the tail. When they rub against you, they’re depositing their scent as a form of marking.

This behavior is rooted in their instinct to mark their territory and claim their space. It also serves to make their environment smell more familiar and comfortable.

Seeking Attention

If your cat rubs against you, it might be asking for something—whether it’s food, playtime, or a petting session. As time goes on, you will be able to determine what need your cat has when it rubs against you. But understanding all of these cues can help you better respond to your feline friend’s needs and strengthen your bond.

Social Bonding

When cats rub against each other, it’s often a sign of social bonding. The same behavior directed towards you is a sign of affection and trust. Your cat sees you as a close companion, much like they would another cat they get along with.

Comfort and Security

For many cats, rubbing against their favorite human or object is a way of seeking comfort and reinforcing their sense of security. It’s especially common in senior cats who may be more focused on maintaining their comfort and safety.

Health Concern

If you notice changes in how or how often your cat is rubbing, or if they seem unusually persistent, it could be a sign of discomfort or a health issue. If the behavior changes significantly, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet to ensure everything is okay.

Enjoy the time your cat is spending with you! These special moments make for a firm bond and socially prepared cat. A cat who shows love by rubbing is a happy and content cat!

Hot Weather Reminders for Our Furry Friends

June 19, 2024 by Michelle Bedard

Summer is right around the corner, and The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa wants to remind you to protect our furry friends during the hot weather. Whether you’re at home, traveling, or driving, it’s important to remember that our pets can’t cool off like we can.

Tips to Keep Your Dogs and Cats Cool During Hot Weather

Dogs pant to cool off and cats cool off by grooming themselves and releasing heat through their paw pads. We can help our pets cool off with some planning and preparation.

Here are some tips to keep your dogs and cats cool during hot weather:

Always provide fresh, cool drinking water
Only exercise your pets during cooler weather
Never leave your pet in a car even if you think it is not hot outside; the weather inside a car can heat up quickly in a short amount of time
Close blinds, shades, and curtains to cool down a room
Provide a cooling towel, mat, or pad for your pet to rest on or near
Use a fan inside but allow your dog to get relief from its cooling breeze
Place ice cubes or ice treats in your dog’s water or dish; these also provide fun toys for cats to play with. Since their paws absorb heat, playing with ice treats can keep your cat cool
Fill a shallow pool with water to play or splash around in
Use a mister or sprinkler for outside, cooling fun
Bring dogs and cats inside with air conditioning, fans, or open windows; animals can easily overheat just by lying in the sun

Signs of Heatstroke in a Dog or Cat

In the event that you think your dog or cat is overheated, be aware of these symptoms:

Panting in cats-cats don’t pant naturally like dogs do. In the event your cat is panting, this may be a sign that your cat has heatstroke.
Glazed eyes
Lethargy
Lack of appetite
Loss of balance or wobbly walking
Difficulty breathing
Rapidly beating heart
Vomiting
Seizures
Gums or tongue being exceptionally red
Collapsing

If you see any of these signs in your dog or cat, please contact your vet immediately. Take your pet to a cooler location, or place in front of a fan, place a cool towel on your pet, and give your dog or cat cool water but not ice water. Cool the pet slowly, not quickly, as that can be more dangerous.

For a Fun Summer Getaway for Your Dog or Cat, Consider The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

If you are looking to get away for the summer, consider sending your dog or cat to The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa. Our dog suits and cat condos are temperature-controlled to keep your pet safe, cool, and happy.

Our state-of-the-art water park offers a fun time for dogs to splash in water and stay cool. Even dogs who didn’t like water have a great time running and splashing in the pool. It’s like summer camp for your dog or cat at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa.

Have a safe and fun summer and remember to keep cool!

Happy Mother’s Day from the Cats of The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa

May 9, 2024 by Michelle Bedard

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 13, 2024, and the Cats of The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa want to wish you all a very happy Mother’s Day!

In the spirit of the Mother’s Day holiday, the cats of The Ranch wanted to share some fun and interesting Motherly Information about their species.

Motherly Facts About Cats

Cat mothers like to consider themselves high in the running for Mom Species of the year. With kitten season upon us, the Ranch cats thought you might enjoying learning the following information about them:

Mother cats are called Queens and really, are we surprised? These dainty paw licking creatures certainly deserve the title.
Kittens in one litter can come from different fathers. A cat in heat can be fertile for a week and can mate with more than one cat during this time. This gives sense to the saying, “A sister from another mister.” This act of nature is one reason kittens from the same litter can look so very different.
Kittens can be born days apart. Since Momma Cat can mate at different days during her fertile season, it makes sense that kittens will develop at different times and be born days apart.
Queens can deliver between 1-9 kittens each time they give birth.
An unspayed cat can have as many as 100 kittens in a lifetime (source) which is why it is so important to spay and neuter your cats.
Queens purr during birth. This noise is their way of relaxing during labor. But given the choice, we are most certain Queens would prefer an epidural.
Kittens are born with placenta covering them which the mom eats after delivery.
Kittens have belly buttons since each kitten has its placenta attached to it. How cute is a kitten belly button?
Cats can have between 4 and 10 nipples, including males, but the average number is six.
Mother cats have a distinct noise to call their kittens. This noise is call a chirrup, and kittens can distinguish their mom from other moms based upon this noise.
Queens hide their babies in nests to keep them safe from predators. You may find your cat has had its kittens in a closet, under your bed, or nesting in your bedding. Feral or stray cats hide their kittens anywhere away from predators and away from where they pee or poop. Common places include under porches, in bushes, and even in peoples’ garages.
Kittens who are found alone are often not abandoned. Mother Queen may be out hunting. If you come across a nest of kittens, the best advice is to leave them alone. Chances are, Mom will come back. If she doesn’t return in 4-6 hours, it may be time to intervene.
Around 8 weeks, Momma Queen is done raising her kittens and happy to get back to the life she once lived without her babies! (source)

Help Prevent Unwanted Pregnancies for Your Cat, Spay and Neuter Your Pets!

Pleasanton Cat Extravaganza & Rescue Awareness Event

September 8, 2023 by Michelle Bedard

Standing brown bengal cat, side view, isolated on white

Looking for some family fun this weekend? You can’t go wrong by attending the Pleasanton Cat Extravaganza & Rescue Awareness Event at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton .

From the event planners:

“Discover a world of feline wonder at our family furr-iendly event to increase the visibility of all cats, with education and awareness for the overwhelming rescue situation. A portion of all proceeds for this event will be donated to helping cats in emergency rescue situations through The Meserve Foundation.

Support local charities and rescues and do your part. Witness an International Cat Competition, see the most beautiful cats in the world strut the CatWalk, see who wins in Best in Show, learn all about cats and more in Kitty Corner, and get your own furry friend a gift from our amazing shopping village!”

The Pleasanton Cat Extravaganza and Rescue Awareness Event is Cohosted by the East Bay SPCA

Cohosted by the East Bay SPCA, the Pleasanton Cat Extravaganza and Rescue Awareness Event takes place this Saturday and Sunday, September 9th and 10th from 10-4. There is something for every age, and a whole lot of purr-fectly fun activities, merchandise, educational opportunities, and felines to entertain you.

General ticket pricing for the two-day event are below.

Sneak Peek at What to Expect at the Pleasanton Cat Extravaganza & Rescue Awareness

This is a video taken of the recent show in Seattle.

https://youtu.be/Zr95VbwczQM?si=bZUFC5q-xyg-pCxa

The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa Offers Cat Boarding

If you are so inclined to adopt a cat from one of the rescues at the Pleasanton Cat Extravaganza & Rescue Awareness Event, keep in mind The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa offers cat boarding.

Our state-of-the-art facilities offer your cat the purr-fect combination of temperature-controlled housing, a quiet staycation away from those noisy dogs, four levels of space, air filtration and advanced cleaning system, and the loving and nurturing attention of our dedicated staff.

For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact us.

How to Keep Your Indoor Cat Happy and Active

We Speak from Personal Experience