🐈Cats: buying guides and gear

A cat simply ignores what it dislikes — a wobbly tree, a badly placed litter box or a noisy fountain ends up in the cupboard. Our guides start from feline ethology (scratching, height, running water, cleanliness) to pick the gear your cat will actually adopt, at a fair price.

💶 Typical budget: €30–70 per month, litter included.

🛡️ Health budget: our guide to cat insurance in france: prices, refunds, how to choose.

Product families

• 🍖 Food

  39 dedicated guides

• 🧴 Care & grooming

  53 dedicated guides

• 🎾 Toys & enrichment

  35 dedicated guides

• 🏠 Bedding & habitat

  31 dedicated guides

• 🧳 Travel & safety

  29 dedicated guides

• 🧰 Accessories

  31 dedicated guides

By breed or species (30)

• Domestic Shorthair
• Maine Coon
• Ragdoll
• Birman
• Persian
• Chartreux
• Russian Blue
• British Shorthair
• Bengal
• Siamese
• Oriental Shorthair
• Abyssinian
• Somali
• Norwegian Forest Cat
• Siberian
• Turkish Angora
• Sphynx
• Devon Rex
• Cornish Rex
• Scottish Fold
• Munchkin
• Savannah
• Exotic Shorthair
• Tonkinese
• Burmese
• Balinese
• Ocicat
• Selkirk Rex
• American Shorthair
• Egyptian Mau

All our guides

• Overweight cat: setting up a weight loss plan without the frustrationFood

  How to help an overweight cat lose weight without starving it or causing stress: diagnosis, a realistic pace, the right food, and vet follow-up.

• Pet insurance for cats: is it worth taking out a policy?Accessories

  Cat insurance: what it actually covers, monthly cost, deductibles and exclusions, and the cases where it genuinely pays off.

• Lost cat: the right moves to find it quicklyTravel & safety

  What to do the moment a cat goes missing? Priority search area, effective methods, best times of day, and the role of microchipping.

• Pregnant cat: setting up a cosy nest for birth and the kittensBedding & habitat

  How to set up a calm space for a pregnant cat: location, supplies, gestation length, and the signs that labour is about to start.

• A window bird feeder: real enrichment for an indoor catToys & enrichment

  Why set up a bird feeder outside an indoor cat's window: behavioural benefits, safe installation, and budget.

• Grooming a British Shorthair: shedding, brushing, and hairballsCare & grooming

  The British Shorthair has a dense coat that needs regular brushing: how often, the right tools, managing the moult, and preventing hairballs.

• Kitten or Adult Cat: What Gear You Actually Need by AgeAccessories

  Litter box, scratching post, bed, food: starter gear differs depending on whether you adopt a kitten or an adult cat. Our guide to equipping the home right.

• Professional Grooming or At-Home Grooming for a Cat: What's the Real Budget?Care & grooming

  Grooming salon or brush at home: costs, frequency, and the cases where a professional groomer genuinely becomes worth the price.

• Cat Toy Subscription Boxes: Good Deal or Pricey Gimmick?Toys & enrichment

  Monthly toy boxes for cats promise novelty and surprise, but are they really worth it compared with buying toys yourself? Here's our comparison.

• A New Baby Is Coming: How to Reorganize Your Cat's Space at HomeBedding & habitat

  Adjusting your cat's litter box, bed, and quiet zones before a baby arrives limits stress and tension in the first weeks at home.

• Switching Your Cat's Kibble Brand: Transition Mistakes to AvoidFood

  Diarrhea, refusal, vomiting: most problems when switching cat food come from a transition that moved too fast. Here's how to do it right.

• Feeding a Birman cat: what a semi-longhair needsFood

  What should you feed a Birman cat? Protein needs, managing the semi-long coat and hairballs, ideal weight, and portions. The feeding guide.

• Annual cost of a cat: the recurring year-after-year budgetAccessories

  How much does a cat cost per year once settled in? Food, litter, vet care, insurance and surprises: the recurring annual budget broken down item by item.

• Grooming a Maine Coon: Keeping a Semi-Long Coat Mat-FreeCare & grooming

  How do you care for a Maine Coon's semi-long coat? Brushing frequency, mat-prone areas, hairballs, and the right tools for this large cat.

• Raised Bowl or Floor Bowl for Your Cat: Which Should You Choose?Food

  Raised feeder or floor-level bowl for a cat: what are the real benefits, when should you consider it, and how do you choose one beyond the marketing?

• Best Litter Box for a Senior or Arthritic Cat: Low-Entry Trays ExplainedCare & grooming

  Litter box for a senior or arthritic cat: why a low-entry tray matters, what size to choose, and how to spot discomfort getting in and out.

• Pheromone Diffusers for Cats: Do They Really Reduce Stress?Accessories

  Synthetic feline pheromone diffusers (Feliway-type): what research actually says about their effect on stress, spraying, and tension between cats.

• Pet Sitter or Cat Boarding for Vacation: What's the Real Budget?Travel & safety

  In-home pet sitter or cat boarding for vacation: comfort differences for your cat, a realistic budget, and criteria to choose between them.

• Cat Scared of Thunderstorms or Fireworks: Creating a Calming HideawayBedding & habitat

  Cat frightened by thunderstorms or fireworks: how to recognize the stress and set up a calming hideaway at home to help them cope.

• Feeding a Domestic Shorthair Cat: Needs and the Right ChoicesFood

  What should you feed a domestic shorthair cat? The needs of a strict carnivore, animal protein, dry or wet food and why hydration matters just as much.

• Feeding a Sphynx Cat: Why It Needs More CaloriesFood

  What are the calorie needs of a hairless Sphynx cat? Why it eats more than a coated cat, which diet to favour and how to avoid excess weight.

• Grooming a Persian Cat: Daily Brushing and Eye CareCare & grooming

  How do you groom a Persian cat day to day? Brushing frequency, mats, tear staining linked to its flat face and the steps for a tangle-free coat.

• Bengal Cats: Channeling Their Energy with the Right ToysToys & enrichment

  The Bengal cat is a bundle of energy: which toys and play routine help channel such an active cat without frustrating it or fuelling mischief?

• Securing an Outdoor Space for a Highly Active Cat (Bengal, Savannah)Travel & safety

  Bengal or Savannah: how do you secure a garden or terrace for a highly agile, jumpy cat? Reinforced catios, fence height and alternatives.

• Feeding an American Shorthair: A Sturdy Cat's NeedsFood

  What should you feed an American Shorthair? An obligate carnivore's ration, the share of wet food for hydration, weight control for a homebody and gentle transitions.

• Cats and Heatwaves: How to Set Up Your Home for SummerBedding & habitat

  Heat stress, hydration, litter box placement: how to adapt your home to protect a cat during a heatwave and spot the warning signs.

• Play Tunnel or Automatic Ball: Which Toy for a Cat Home AloneToys & enrichment

  Play tunnel versus automatic ball toy for a cat left alone during the day: what research on feline preferences actually shows.

• Cat Scratching Without Fleas: The Causes to Know Before TreatingCare & grooming

  A cat that scratches doesn't always have fleas: food allergies, environmental allergies or insect bites can also be the cause.

• Camping Vacation With Your Cat: Budget and Must-Have GearTravel & safety

  Taking your cat camping takes planning: the right carrier, a realistic budget and carrier training for a stress-free trip.

• Cats and Remote Work: Setting Up a Home Office Without a Play-Zone TakeoverAccessories

  How to organise a work-from-home setup with a cat around: protecting your equipment, channelling attention and keeping good habits.

• Kitten food: how to choose the right kibble from 2 to 12 monthsFood

  Which kitten food should you buy? Key criteria (protein, kibble size, DHA), daily portions, budget in euros and how to transition to adult food.

• Wet food or dry food for cats: which should you feed every day?Food

  Wet food or kibble for your cat? Pros and cons, mixed feeding, monthly budget in euros and practical tips for getting the portions right.

• Automatic cat feeder: which one should you choose?Food

  Buying guide for automatic cat feeders: gravity or programmable, capacity, prices from 15 to 150 € and tips for a smooth introduction.

• Slow-feeder bowl for cats: put an end to gulped-down mealsFood

  Why and how to choose a slow-feeder bowl for a cat that vomits after meals: maze designs, materials, prices from 8 to 25 € and fun alternatives.

• Cat-proofing a balcony: safety net or catio?Travel & safety

  How do you make a balcony safe for a cat? Protection nets, catios, no-drill mounting, prices from 15 to 600 € and building rules to check first.

• Cat harness: getting your first walks on a lead rightTravel & safety

  Which cat harness should you choose for safe outings? H-style or vest models, sizing, step-by-step training and prices from 10 to 35 €.

• GPS tracker for cats: follow every outing in real timeTravel & safety

  Which GPS tracker should you choose for your cat? Weight, battery life, subscription, accuracy, prices from 30 to 100 € and the limits of Bluetooth tags.

• Heated beds and pads for cats: winter comfort done rightBedding & habitat

  Electric or self-warming heated pads for cats, insulated outdoor shelters: safety, power use, prices from 15 to 90 € and how to choose.

• Cat window perch: the ideal suction-cup hammockBedding & habitat

  How to choose a window perch for your cat? Suction cups or frame, weight capacity, fitting on glass and prices from 12 to 45 €.

• Cat wall shelves and climbing routes: putting your walls to workBedding & habitat

  How do you build a wall climbing route for a cat? Shelves, bridges, heights, fixings for every wall type, a sample layout and a 40 to 250 € budget.

• Food puzzles for cats: the best intelligence toysToys & enrichment

  Food puzzles for cats, treat balls, activity boards: how to choose them, difficulty levels and prices from 5 to 30 €.

• Laser toys and automatic cat toys: how to use them wellToys & enrichment

  Are laser toys dangerous for cats? Usage rules, frustration, rotating automatic toys, motorised teasers and prices from 8 to 45 €.

• How many litter boxes per cat, and where should they go?Care & grooming

  How many litter boxes does a cat need? The N+1 rule, the best spots around the home and the mistakes that lead to accidents outside the box.

• Cat litter mat: no more granules all over the houseCare & grooming

  How do you choose an effective cat litter mat? Double-layer and honeycomb models, dimensions, cleaning and prices from 8 to 30 €.

• Scratch protection: save your sofa and furniture from clawsAccessories

  Adhesive films, sisal panels, sprays: which scratch protection should you choose for your furniture? Effectiveness, fitting, prices from 8 to 40 € and best practice.

• Indoor cat deterrents: protect your plants and off-limits areasAccessories

  Which indoor deterrent works for cats? Sprays, citrus, prickle mats, protecting toxic plants and the gentle methods that genuinely work.

• Soft carrier or hard carrier for cats: which should you choose?Travel & safety

  Soft carrier bag or rigid crate for your cat? A comparison by journey type (vet, car, train, plane), safety and prices from 20 to 90 €.

• Cat nail clippers: trim your cat's claws without the stressCare & grooming

  Which nail clippers should you choose for your cat, and how do you trim claws without hitting the quick? Clipper types, frequency, step-by-step technique and prices from 5 to 20 €.

• Wall-mounted cat tree: space-saving climbing on your wallBedding & habitat

  Why choose a wall-mounted cat tree? Modules, fixings for every wall type, load capacity, prices from 30 to 200 € and how it compares with a classic tree.

• Pet camera and smart feeder: keeping an eye on a cat home aloneAccessories

  Pet cameras with an app, smart feeders, sensors: which kit for a cat left home alone? The features that matter and prices from 30 to 200 €.

• Cat drinking a lot: when excessive thirst should worry youCare & grooming

  A cat that suddenly drinks far more than before may be signalling diabetes, kidney disease or a thyroid problem. How to measure water intake and when to see the vet.

• Grooming a Birman cat: keeping a semi-long coat mat-freeCare & grooming

  The Birman has a silky semi-long coat, easier to maintain than a Persian but still needing a regular routine. Brushing, sensitive spots and hairball prevention.

• Grain-free cat food: what's the real difference from classic kibble?Food

  "Grain-free" doesn't mean carb-free or automatically healthier for your cat. What the label actually changes, how to compare it to classic kibble, and when it's worth it.

• Best bowl for a flat-faced cat (Persian, Exotic Shorthair): avoiding discomfort at every mealFood

  Persians, Exotic Shorthairs, Himalayans... flat-faced cats can struggle to eat from a classic bowl. Shape, depth and material: what really changes mealtime comfort.

• Cat first aid kit: what to pack and what budget to plan forAccessories

  A cut, a minor burn, a suspected ingestion... a well-thought-out first aid kit helps you react calmly while waiting to reach the vet. Essential contents and a realistic budget.

• Cat exercise wheel: mistakes to avoid before investing in this bulky accessoryToys & enrichment

  The hamster-style exercise wheel for cats appeals to owners of very active breeds, but it's a bulky, costly purchase. Size, space and how well the cat takes to it: the mistakes that lead to regret.

• Adopting a cat when you already have a dog at home: the gear for successful cohabitationBedding & habitat

  Separate bowls, elevated zones, a litter box out of the dog's reach... the right setup makes a huge difference when a cat and a dog have to share the same roof.

• Cat sick in the car: why it happens and how to limit motion sicknessTravel & safety

  Drooling, meowing, vomiting: cat car sickness blends stress and the vestibular system. Gradual habituation, carrier setup and practical solutions.

• Litter training a kitten: the gentle, step-by-step methodCare & grooming

  Kittens are naturally drawn to the litter box: the owner's job is mainly not to get in the way of that instinct. Box, substrate, placement and handling accidents.

• Silvervine (matatabi): the catnip alternative for cats who don't respond to itToys & enrichment

  Roughly a third of cats show no reaction to catnip. Silvervine, a Japanese vine, triggers a different compound and wins over almost every cat.

• Cat backpack carrier: real advantages, but not for every tripTravel & safety

  Hiking, stairs, crowded public transport: a backpack carrier frees your hands, but comes with constraints a classic carrier doesn't have. The full picture.

• Airtight kibble container: why the original bag isn't enoughFood

  An opened bag of kibble loses freshness within weeks: fat oxidation, moisture, pests. How to properly store your cat's food.

• Sunburn in cats: why white cats with pale ears are at riskCare & grooming

  The pale skin of white cats or pink-tipped ears copes poorly with UV: redness, crusting, and a risk of precancerous lesions with repeated exposure. How to protect them.

• One hiding spot per room: why cats need several hideouts at homeBedding & habitat

  Hiding is not a sign that something is wrong: it is a basic feline behavioural need. How many hiding spots to provide, and where to place them around the house.

• Why my cat loses interest in toys so fast (and how to bring it back)Toys & enrichment

  A toy ignored after just a few days is not necessarily a bad purchase: it is habituation at work. Understanding it to bring back lasting interest in play.

• Steps and ramps for senior cats: keeping access to high perchesAccessories

  An older cat that gives up jumping onto the sofa or windowsill hasn't lost the desire to: feline osteoarthritis, very common and often silent, is limiting the movement.

• Hyperthyroidism in senior cats: the early signs not to missCare & grooming

  An older cat losing weight despite a huge appetite isn't simply staying active for its age: it is often the first sign of hyperthyroidism, a common and treatable hormonal disease.

• Plastic cat accessories: which ones are truly durable and safeAccessories

  Plastic is not to be banned everywhere for cats: essential for the carrier, questionable for the bowl. How to spot durable, safe plastic, item by item.

• Cat window safety: preventing high-rise syndromeTravel & safety

  A window left ajar in warm weather is enough for a cat to fall from a high floor. How to recognise the risk and secure windows without giving up fresh air.

• Feeding a Maine Coon, a large breed: what calorie needs to expectFood

  A Maine Coon can weigh twice as much as an average-size cat. How to adapt portions, growth and cardio-supportive nutrients to this oversized build.

• Overgrooming in cats: when licking becomes a warning signCare & grooming

  Cats naturally spend a lot of time grooming, but compulsive licking that creates bald patches can signal underlying stress or pain.

• Cat toy rotation: the method to prevent boredomToys & enrichment

  A cat loses interest in a toy within days, not because it's a bad toy but because it becomes predictable. Regular rotation revives interest without buying more.

• Transporting a ragdoll by car: which carrier for such a big cat?Travel & safety

  At 9 to 20 lbs, a ragdoll outgrows most standard carriers. Dimensions, habituation and securing: the keys to a calm journey.

• Toys for an egyptian mau: keeping the sprinter of cats busyToys & enrichment

  Sprints at 30 mph and an intact hunting instinct: the egyptian mau needs chase games and real running space. Our toy picks.

• Siberian cat: health, heart and the truth about its hypoallergenic sideCare & grooming

  The Siberian cat is reputed to be hardy and low-allergen, but what does the science say? Cardiomyopathy, Fel d 1 and the care budget to anticipate before adopting.

• Russian Blue: a robust breed, but watch weight and urinary tractCare & grooming

  The Russian Blue is a healthy cat with few hereditary diseases, but excess weight and urinary stones remain major feline risks. What to watch and budget for.

• Turkish Angora: white-cat deafness, heart and health to anticipateCare & grooming

  In the blue-eyed white Turkish Angora, hereditary deafness is a real, testable risk. What to know, how to test, and the care budget to plan.

• Two cats: one cat tree or two?Bedding & habitat

  One cat tree or two for a two-cat household? Decision criteria, layouts that actually work and a realistic budget to keep the peace between your cats.

• Ceramic or stainless steel cat bowl: which should you choose?Accessories

  Ceramic or stainless steel bowl for your cat? Hygiene, feline acne, stability, price: the full comparison to pick the right material and avoid plastic.

• Open or covered litter box: which does your cat really prefer?Care & grooming

  Open or covered litter box for your cat? Odours, scatter, stress, upkeep: the honest comparison to choose a box your cat will actually use.

• Dry food only or mixed feeding for your cat: which to choose?Food

  Dry food only or mixed feeding with kibble plus wet food for your cat? Hydration, budget, daily routine: the comparison to help you decide with confidence.

• Cardboard or sisal scratcher: which one will your cat actually use?Toys & enrichment

  Cardboard or sisal scratcher for your cat? Durability, orientation, price, feline preferences: the comparison to choose a scratcher that truly gets adopted.

• First kitten: 7 equipment mistakes to avoidAccessories

  First-kitten equipment mistakes cost money and complicate settling in: oversized litter box, pointless gadgets, premature purchases… The anti-trap guide.

• Should your cat wear a collar? Risks and alternativesTravel & safety

  Is a cat collar useful or dangerous? Strangulation, trapped leg, alternatives such as microchips and GPS trackers: what to know before buying one.

• Should you trim your cat’s claws? A case-by-case guideCare & grooming

  Should you trim your cat’s claws? Indoor cat, outdoor cat, senior: when trimming helps, when to leave well alone, and the right technique.

• Free feeding your cat: good or bad idea?Food

  Leaving kibble out at all times: natural grazing or a fast track to obesity? When free feeding works, when to ration, and how to do it right.

• Scented cat litter: a bad idea in disguiseCare & grooming

  Scented litter masks odours for you but can drive your cat away from the box. Why it backfires and how to neutralise smells the right way instead.

• How much does a cat cost in the first year? A detailed budgetAccessories

  How much does a cat cost in the first year? Adoption, equipment, vet care, food, litter: the complete budget line by line, from 700 to 1 500 €.

• Cat litter: the real monthly cost, type by typeCare & grooming

  What does cat litter cost per month? Clay, clumping, silica, plant-based: real consumption, monthly price and tips to pay less without cutting corners.

• Second-hand cat gear: what to buy, what to avoidAccessories

  Buying your cat’s accessories second-hand cuts the bill by half or more. Cat tree, carrier, bowls: what is safe to buy used and what to steer clear of.

• Premium cat accessories: which ones are truly worth the price?Accessories

  Premium cat accessories: fountain, high-end carrier, sturdy cat tree… Which ones justify their price and which are pure marketing? Our honest sorting.

• Cat food budget: how much should you plan per month?Food

  What monthly food budget for a cat? From 15 to 60 € depending on the range and share of wet food: the real figures, the traps and where to put your money.

• Equipping an apartment cat without a balcony: the complete guideToys & enrichment

  Equipping an apartment cat without a balcony: vertical space, observation posts, daily hunting play… The room-by-room setup plan, with a budget.

• Moving house with your cat: the organisation that prevents escapesTravel & safety

  Moving house with your cat without stress or escapes: preparation, moving day in a closed room, gentle quarantine on arrival and delayed outings. The full protocol.

• Senior cat: adapting your home for its golden yearsBedding & habitat

  Adapting the home for a senior cat: easier access, low-entry litter box, orthopaedic bed, raised bowls. The changes that make all the difference after age 10.

• Introducing a second cat: the gear that changes everythingBedding & habitat

  Introducing a second cat takes more than patience: an airlock room, genuinely doubled resources, an introduction barrier. The gear you need and the full protocol.

• Leaving your cat alone for a weekend: what should you plan?Travel & safety

  Leaving your cat alone for a weekend is possible if you secure water, food, litter and the home. The full checklist, the limits and the pet-sitting options.

• Premium or store-brand cat food: does the price difference actually matter?Food

  Premium or store-brand cat food: does the extra cost really pay off? How to read the label so you choose the right food, not the priciest bag.

• Stress-free cat grooming: glove or brush, how to get it rightCare & grooming

  Does your cat hate being brushed? Grooming glove or classic brush: how to lower the stress and make it a pleasant moment, step by step.

• Snuffle mat for cats: a food toy that's actually worth it?Toys & enrichment

  The snuffle mat mimics ground-level hunting for your cat. How it works, which cats benefit, and is it better than a regular bowl?

• Traveling by ferry or boat with your cat: what to plan forTravel & safety

  Ferry crossing, cruise or private boat with your cat: motion sickness, carrier, paperwork... how to prepare the trip properly.

• Recovery bed for cats after surgery: is it worth buying one?Bedding & habitat

  Spay/neuter, fracture, surgery: does your cat need a dedicated recovery bed, or will its regular bed and setup do the job?

• Chartreux cat: diet and weight management for a stocky, muscular breedFood

  The Chartreux has a stocky, muscular build: does it have special dietary needs? What to watch for to prevent weight gain in this calm breed.

• Devon Rex and Cornish Rex: skin care and preventing dermatitisCare & grooming

  Curly coat, oily skin: how to care for a Devon Rex or Cornish Rex day to day and spot the early signs of dermatitis to watch for.

• Scottish Fold cats: setting up a bed that's easy on the jointsBedding & habitat

  Folded ears, fragile joints: how to choose a comfortable, accessible bed for a Scottish Fold cat.

• Oriental cats: channeling an intense need for play and communicationToys & enrichment

  The Oriental cat is chatty and high-energy: what toys and how much availability does it need to meet its constant demand for contact?

• Munchkin cats: setting up a home for short legsBedding & habitat

  Munchkins climb and run like any other cat, but their short legs change the math for cat trees, litter boxes and reaching furniture.

• Burmese cats: preventing feline diabetes through dietFood

  The Burmese is one of the breeds most predisposed to feline diabetes mellitus. Which dietary choices actually lower that risk day to day?

• Savannah cats: legal status and securing the outdoors by generationTravel & safety

  Keeping a Savannah cat can require a certificate of competence depending on the generation. What are the French rules, and how do you secure a cat capable of two-metre leaps?

• Norwegian Forest Cat: what gear suits a large longhaired breed?Accessories

  Large build, semi-long coat, strong climbing instinct: what accessories should you choose for a Norwegian Forest Cat day to day?

• Selkirk Rex: caring for a curly coat without undoing the curlsCare & grooming

  Unlike the Devon Rex, the Selkirk Rex has a full, curly coat that genuinely needs upkeep. What method and tools avoid flattening the curls?

• Vet prescription food or regular kibble for a cat with kidney disease: which one?Food

  Once chronic kidney disease is diagnosed, the vet's prescription diet is far more than a marketing label. What actually changes, and what it costs.

• Deaf cats: what gear helps you communicate and keep them safe?Accessories

  A deaf or hard-of-hearing cat lives a perfectly normal life, but a few pieces of gear and a couple of home adjustments avoid unpleasant surprises.

• Toy budget for an indoor cat: how much should you set aside per year?Toys & enrichment

  Between wand toys, automatic toys and monthly boxes, the toy budget for an indoor cat varies a lot. Here are realistic benchmarks to spend it well.

• Renting with a cat: setting up your home without causing damageBedding & habitat

  Scratched walls, ruined carpet, a security deposit on the line: here is how to set up a rented home for a cat without a bad surprise at move-out inspection.

• EU pet passport for cats: the documents you need before traveling abroadTravel & safety

  Microchip, rabies vaccination, health record: here are the documents actually required to travel with your cat within Europe and beyond.

• Why cats stay indifferent to sweetness: what it means for choosing treatsFood

  Unlike dogs or humans, cats can barely perceive sweet taste at all. A genetic quirk that explains why a cat ignores a slice of cake but pounces on a piece of chicken.

• Feline idiopathic cystitis: what a landmark study shows about environmental enrichmentCare & grooming

  For a cat prone to recurring idiopathic cystitis, changing the everyday environment isn't just extra comfort: a landmark study measured its effect on how often flare-ups occur.

• Five to ten minutes of play a day: what a study shows about cats and prey brought homeToys & enrichment

  A landmark study tested several interventions for a cat that hunts outdoors: daily play with a prey-like toy stands out as one of the most effective ways to reduce prey brought back home.

• Covered or uncovered litter box: what a landmark study says about a cat's actual preferenceBedding & habitat

  The common assumption is that cats avoid a covered litter box for lack of privacy. A study directly tested cat preference between open and covered boxes, with a more nuanced result than expected.

• A parked car, even in the shade: what a cabin-temperature study reveals for catsTravel & safety

  A study measured how quickly temperature rises inside a parked car's cabin depending on weather conditions, figures that explain why leaving a cat in a vehicle, even for a few minutes, stays dangerous.

• Elimination diet for an allergic cat: how to set it up without getting it wrongFood

  When itching or repeated digestive issues won't go away, an elimination diet remains the only real way to confirm a food allergy in cats. Here's how to run one correctly.

• Cat strollers: a real alternative for cats who refuse the harness?Travel & safety

  Some cats will never accept a harness or leash. Can a pet stroller give them a taste of the outdoors without the risk of running off? A look at how useful it really is.

• Orthopedic beds for senior cats: easing joint pain during restBedding & habitat

  Feline arthritis stays underdiagnosed because cats hide pain well. The right orthopedic bedding can genuinely improve day-to-day comfort.

• Cat cleaning wipes: a real help between baths or just marketing?Care & grooming

  Dirty paws after the litter box, a greasy coat on an older cat that grooms less: cat wipes promise a lot. How do they actually compare to a cat's natural grooming?

• Cat toys and young children at home: which ones to choose to avoid accidentsToys & enrichment

  Small swallowable parts, strings, scratches during play: here's how to choose cat toys that are compatible with young children in the house.

• Nail clippers or an electric grinder for cats: which one to choose?Care & grooming

  A standard nail clipper is enough for most cats, but an electric grinder avoids sharp edges on very thick claws. Comparison, prices and technique to keep the trim stress-free.

• Feeding an Abyssinian: what an athletic, muscular cat really needsFood

  A tireless climber with a fast metabolism, the Abyssinian has different feeding needs than a sedentary cat. Portions, meal frequency and the traps to avoid for this athletic build.

• Shared custody of a cat after a breakup: what gear does each home need?Accessories

  When a couple splits up but still wants to take turns caring for the cat, the logistics of equipment matter as much as staying on good terms. What to duplicate, and what can travel.

• Raw (BARF) diet for cats: the real budget and precautions before you startFood

  The BARF diet appeals with its promise of natural feeding, but it costs more than it looks and demands strict hygiene rules. Monthly budget, required gear and the risks to know.

• Turkish Van, the cat that loves water: what water play to offer at homeToys & enrichment

  Unlike most cats, the Turkish Van actively seeks out water. How to channel this breed trait at home without the mess, and which gear to prioritise.

• Feeding a British Shorthair: preventing weight gain in a compact, heavy-set catFood

  A stocky build, heavy bones and low natural activity: the British Shorthair stacks up several weight-gain risk factors. Portion guidelines, meal frequency and signs to watch for.

• Grooming a Sphynx: why a hairless cat still needs regular bathsCare & grooming

  With no fur to soak it up, a Sphynx's skin gets oily fast. Bathing frequency, the right products, and the day-to-day routine for a hairless cat's skin.

• Carrier training your cat as a daily habit: the method that cuts transport stressTravel & safety

  Only bringing out the carrier on vet day is enough to stress most cats. Gradual, everyday carrier training changes that outcome dramatically, backed by research.

• Smart litter boxes with weight tracking: a real health tool for cats, or just a gadget?Accessories

  Connected self-cleaning litter boxes promise to weigh your cat and log its visits. What they actually deliver, their limits, and which cats make the investment worthwhile.

• Feeding an Ocicat: the needs of an athletically built catFood

  Dense muscle, a large frame and sustained activity: the Ocicat burns more than an average cat. How to adjust its ration to this sporty profile without tipping into weight gain.

• Grooming a Balinese: the easy upkeep of a semi-long coat with no undercoatCare & grooming

  Silky, semi-long fur, but almost no undercoat: the Balinese is far quicker to groom than it looks. Brushing frequency and the essentials to know.

• Siamese cats left alone: why interactive toys aren't optionalToys & enrichment

  Extremely communicative and not very self-sufficient, the Siamese copes poorly with solitude. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders and how to organize days away from home.

• Somali cats: designing vertical space for a highly active climberBedding & habitat

  A semi-longhaired version of the Abyssinian, the Somali jumps and climbs relentlessly. How to structure vertical space to channel this energy day to day.

• Pet insurance for a Tonkinese cat: the health predispositions to know before signing upAccessories

  Chronic gingivitis and feline asthma rank among the Tonkinese's known weak points. What that means for choosing an insurance plan suited to this breed.

• Slow feeder bowl or lick mat for a cat that eats too fast?Food

  A cat that gulps down its ration in seconds risks regurgitation. Comparing slow feeder bowls and lick mats to slow eating down for good.

• Sharing your bed with your cat: suitable bedding and good practicesBedding & habitat

  Sleeping with your cat doesn't disrupt sleep as much as commonly believed. Bedding, hygiene and habits to adopt so the nighttime cohabitation works well for both of you.

• Cat that nips during play: the mistakes that reinforce the behaviorToys & enrichment

  Nipping hands mid-play session is a misdirected predatory reflex, not aggression. The common handling mistakes that unwittingly encourage it.

• Autumn shedding in cats: why they lose more fur and how to helpCare & grooming

  The drop in daylight triggers a denser coat renewal each autumn. Understanding this natural mechanism and the gear that keeps fur off the furniture.

• Blind or low-vision cat: which accessories keep daily life safeAccessories

  Whether vision loss is total or partial, cats compensate remarkably well through smell and hearing. The accessories and layout changes that genuinely make daily life easier.

• Long-haired or short-haired cat: grooming routine and budget comparedCare & grooming

  Long-haired or short-haired cat: the right brush, how often to groom and a realistic budget, so you avoid mats without spending every evening on it.

• Deworming your cat: how often, what price and how to choose the right productCare & grooming

  Deworming an indoor cat or one that goes outside: recommended frequency, tablet or spot-on, and a realistic budget for effective treatment.

• Best toys for a senior or overweight cat: keeping them moving without frustrationToys & enrichment

  Toys suited to a senior or overweight cat: how to restart gentle activity, which models to pick and what budget to plan for.

• Cat not drinking enough: the water bowl and fountain mistakes to avoidFood

  Cat not drinking enough water: the common placement and equipment mistakes, and how to fix the situation without stressing your cat.

• Cat home alone all day while you’re at work: how to set your home upToys & enrichment

  Cat home alone all day, whether you work from home or the office: what equipment to plan to keep them occupied without overspending.

• Litter box too small? What size to choose for your catAccessories

  An undersized litter box pushes many cats to prefer another one nearby, or to eliminate outside it altogether. What a comparative study on box size shows, and how to pick the right dimensions.

• Scratching post for a senior cat: which substrate to choose as they ageToys & enrichment

  Scratching doesn't stop with age, but texture preferences shift. What a large survey on scratching posts reveals, and how to adapt a senior cat's setup.

• How far do cats actually roam outdoors? Sizing a catio and a GPS trackerTravel & safety

  GPS tracking of free-roaming cats reveals territories far larger than most owners imagine. What that data changes for catio sizing and the real usefulness of a tracker.

• Wet food and weight management: what water content actually changesFood

  An overweight cat spontaneously cuts its calorie intake when fed a diet very high in water. What a comparative study shows, and how to apply it without upending the ration.

• A comfort object during an absence: what the science of cat attachment saysBedding & habitat

  Cats form genuine attachment to their humans, with styles comparable to those seen in children. How a familiar object can ease the stress of being left alone.

• Ear infections in cats: symptoms, causes and what to doCare & grooming

  Scratching ears, a tilted head, an unusual smell: the signs of an ear infection in cats, its most common causes, and what to do before your vet visit.

• Cat not eating: possible causes and when to worryFood

  A cat that skips its bowl for more than 24 hours is never trivial. Common causes of feline inappetence and the timeline for an urgent vet visit.

• Ingrown claws in senior cats: spotting and preventing themCare & grooming

  Less scratching, less grooming: an older cat can let its claws curl into the paw pad without complaint. How to spot the problem and prevent it.

• Spaying or neutering a cat: preparing and managing recovery at homeCare & grooming

  Cone, confinement, adjusted feeding: what to prepare before a cat's spay or neuter surgery, and how to support recovery in the days that follow.

• Diabetic cat diet: what to put in the bowl every dayFood

  A diabetic cat doesn't need a complicated diet, just low-carb meals served on a regular schedule. What really matters when choosing between kibble and wet food.

• Cat drooling excessively: possible causes and when to see a vetCare & grooming

  A little saliva at the corner of a relaxed cat's mouth is rarely a concern. The most common causes of abnormal drooling in cats, and the point where it should worry you.

• Cardboard box or store-bought toy: why your cat sometimes prefers the boxToys & enrichment

  A 15-euro toy ignored in favor of the box it came in isn't a whim. What the science says about cats and cardboard boxes — and how to still make the purchase worth it.

• Cat sleeping in the sink or bathtub: should you worry?Bedding & habitat

  It's neither a quirk nor a behavior problem: if your cat regularly settles into the sink or bathtub, the reason is usually simple — heat.

• Allergic to your cat: which supplies and habits actually cut down allergensAccessories

  You don't need to give up your cat to breathe easier at home. Brushing, air purification, and targeted diets: what actually reduces the Fel d 1 allergen day to day.

• Scottish fold: osteochondrodysplasia, pain and lifetime care costsCare & grooming

  Scottish fold osteochondrodysplasia explained: the TRPV4 mutation, what studies show, spotting pain, lifelong management and what insurers typically exclude.

• American Shorthair: screening for hypertrophic cardiomyopathyCare & grooming

  HCM predisposition in the American Shorthair: echocardiographic screening, warning signs, prognosis, follow-up costs and why insurance matters early.

• Birman cat health: inherited predispositions and DNA screeningCare & grooming

  Birman cat: congenital FOXN1 hypotrichosis, FIP risk, what to ask the breeder, DNA screening, veterinary budget and practical pet insurance advice.

• Burmese cat: hereditary WNK4 hypokalaemia, screening and careCare & grooming

  Muscle weakness and low head carriage in Burmese cats: what the WNK4 mutation means, how DNA screening works, treatment options and likely costs.

• Devon Rex congenital myopathy: screening, treatment and budgetCare & grooming

  Spasticity, weakness and swallowing trouble in Devon Rex cats: the COLQ gene variant, DNA screening, lifelong follow-up and the costs to expect.

• Exotic Shorthair: flat face, tear staining and daily careCare & grooming

  Tear overflow, nose fold, dense undercoat: why an Exotic Shorthair needs a daily hygiene routine, what veterinary imaging shows, and which signs should send you to the vet.

• Devon Rex: sparse coat, warmth needs and the right beddingBedding & habitat

  The Devon Rex's fine, curly coat insulates poorly. What genetics explains, how to set up bedding and warm spots, and the heating mistakes to avoid.

• Tonkinese: a very demanding cat, and how to really keep it busyToys & enrichment

  The Tonkinese inherits the sociable, talkative character of the Siamese and Burmese. What research on feline behaviour genetics shows, and how to organise daily enrichment.

• Russian Blue: a reserved cat, managing visitors and hiding placesAccessories

  The Russian Blue withdraws the moment a stranger walks in. What research on hiding boxes and feline stress shows, and which gear to set up before guests arrive.

• Abyssinian: rdAc retinal atrophy and how to read the DNA test before you adoptCare & grooming

  A recessive CEP290 mutation blinds an Abyssinian between three and five years old. What the studies measure about carrier frequency, what the test detects, and what to ask a breeder.

• Somali cat: pyruvate kinase deficiency, the anaemia that comes and goesCare & grooming

  Episodes of lethargy, pale gums, jaundice: pyruvate kinase deficiency runs at roughly one Somali in six as a carrier. What the studies show about its course, and why the DNA test changes everything.

• Munchkin: what research has actually measured about those short legsCare & grooming

  The UGDH gene, documented bone deformity, unproven arthritis: an honest look at Munchkin cat health — what the studies establish and what they do not allow anyone to claim.

• Chartreux: how much hair it actually swallows, and how to ease the transitCare & grooming

  A cat sheds around 28 g of hair per kilo per year and swallows two thirds of it. On a dense woolly undercoat, here are the numbers, what brushing really removes and what fibre is proven to do.

• Cornish Rex: why its ultra-thin coat leaves it cold, and how to set up proper beddingBedding & habitat

  A mutation in the LPAR6 gene leaves the Cornish Rex without guard hairs. What that means for its thermoregulation, and how to build bedding that actually works.

• Ragdoll: what the largest cat-behaviour study reveals behind its "floppy" reputationToys & enrichment

  Going limp in your arms is not proof of a relaxed cat. What the 2019 Salonen study on 5,726 cats actually measures about Ragdoll shyness, and the enrichment that helps.

• Norwegian Forest Cat outdoors: what the camera-collar study shows, and how to secure its territoryTravel & safety

  Only 23% of captured prey ever makes it home, according to the 2013 Loyd study. For a born hunter like the Norwegian Forest Cat, what that means and how to secure outdoor access.

• Insuring a Selkirk Rex: the polycystic kidney disease inherited from its Persian ancestryAccessories

  Crossed with Persians to fix its curly coat, the Selkirk Rex also inherited a real risk of polycystic kidney disease. Prevalence, screening, and what it means for pet insurance.

• Exotic Shorthair and heat during travel: what its flat face really changesTravel & safety

  Like the Persian, the Exotic Shorthair has narrower airways from its brachycephalic build. What that means for keeping it safe on a hot journey.

• White Turkish Angora: what its coat means for deafness risk, and how to adapt its accessoriesAccessories

  White coat, blue or odd eyes: the Turkish Angora ticks the boxes linked since 1971 to congenital feline deafness. How to adapt its collar, windows and monitoring accordingly.

• Balinese: why its long coat without an undercoat changes its bedding needsBedding & habitat

  The Balinese is not just a "long-haired Siamese": its fine coat, lacking a dense undercoat, insulates less than you'd expect. What that means for its bedding.

• Ocicat: with no wild blood at all, what explains its spots and its need for intense playToys & enrichment

  The Ocicat looks like an ocelot but has no wild ancestor: its coat comes from a tabby-pattern gene identified in 2012. What that means for everyday enrichment.

• Tartar and bad breath in cats: toothbrush, dental gel or dental treats, what should you choose?Care & grooming

  Dental tartar and bad breath in cats: comparing toothbrushing, enzymatic dental gel and dental treats, to slow down plaque without stressing your cat.

• Cat suddenly refusing its usual kibble: the right checks before switching brandsFood

  Cat refusing kibble it ate happily the day before: the common causes to rule out before switching brands, and how to respond without upsetting your cat.

• Horizontal or vertical scratching post for cats: which to choose based on scratching behaviourToys & enrichment

  Horizontal or vertical scratching post for cats: how to read your cat's scratching posture to pick the right format and finally protect the sofa.

• Elevated or floor-level cat bed: which to choose based on age and seasonBedding & habitat

  Elevated or floor-level cat bed: how to adapt bedding to your cat's age, joints and the season, without buying more than you need.

• Securing a cat carrier in the car: straps and placement to checkTravel & safety

  Cat carrier in the car: where to place it and how to strap it down to reduce risk in the event of sudden braking or a collision.

• Bathing a cat: when it's actually necessary and how to do it without traumaCare & grooming

  Bathing a cat: the situations where it's genuinely useful, how often, and the method to wash a cat without stress or scratches.

• Cat treats: how many per day without unbalancing your cat's dietFood

  Cat treats: how much is reasonable per day, how to fit them into the daily ration, and the mistakes that make a cat gain weight.

• Wand toy or feather toy for cats: which one stimulates the hunting instinct bestToys & enrichment

  Wand toy or feather toy for cats: a comparison to choose the interactive toy that best stimulates hunting instinct, based on your cat's profile.

• Kitten playpen or cage: a genuinely useful piece of gear or an unnecessary expense?Bedding & habitat

  Kitten playpen or cage: in which homes and situations this gear truly helps a kitten settle in, and when it's simply unnecessary.

• Flying with your cat: ticket, carrier and rules to know before bookingTravel & safety

  Flying with your cat: booking a pet ticket, choosing an airline-approved cabin carrier and preparing the paperwork before departure.

• Traveling by train with your cat: ticket, carrier and rules to knowTravel & safety

  Traveling by train with your cat: booking a pet ticket, which carrier is allowed on board, and how it differs from flying.

• Toxic foods for cats: the real dangers and what to do after accidental ingestionFood

  Toxic foods for cats: chocolate, onion, grapes, xylitol and more — the real dangers and the right steps after accidental ingestion.

• Automatic toys and robotic mice for cats: worth it while you're away?Toys & enrichment

  Automatic toys and robotic mice for cats: available formats, prices, and how useful they really are for keeping a cat busy while you're out.

• Outdoor shelter for cats: insulation, placement and cat flap accessBedding & habitat

  Outdoor shelter for a cat with outdoor access: insulation criteria, best placement, and a budget of €40 to €100.

• Microchip or ID tag for cats: which one do you need?Accessories

  Mandatory microchip or ID tag for cats: differences, cost, and why the two forms of identification work best together.

• Food puzzle toy for cats: what the science says about wellbeingToys & enrichment

  Food puzzle toy or classic bowl for cats: what studies show about food enrichment and feline wellbeing.

• Cat urine spraying: understanding the behaviour before blaming the litter boxAccessories

  Cat urine spraying: why it happens, how to tell it apart from a litter box problem, and the gear that genuinely helps reduce it.

• Poisonous houseplants for cats: the real dangers at homeCare & grooming

  Lilies, dieffenbachia, ficus... which houseplants are dangerous for a cat, the symptoms to watch for, and what to do after accidental ingestion.

• Cleaning a cat's ears: when and how to do it safelyCare & grooming

  Should you clean a cat's ears regularly? Frequency, the right product, step-by-step technique, and the signs of infection to watch for.

• Hairballs in cats: preventing and limiting regurgitationFood

  Why cats regurgitate hairballs, which foods and supplements genuinely reduce their formation, and when it's time to see a vet.

• Clicker training for cats: a method that actually worksToys & enrichment

  Clicker training works for cats too: the principle, the gear you need, first exercises, and what studies show about how well it works.

• Cat litter: clumping, silica or plant-based, which should you choose?Care & grooming

  Clumping, silica or plant-based: compare cat litter types by odour control, maintenance, budget and your cat’s comfort to find the right fit.

• Self-cleaning litter box: gimmick or genuine time-saver?Accessories

  Self-cleaning litter boxes promise an end to daily scooping. How they work, prices, limitations and which cats they suit: our full analysis.

• Cat tree: size, stability, materials… how to choose the right oneBedding & habitat

  Height, stability, sisal, platforms: the practical criteria for choosing a durable cat tree your cat will actually use, from studio flat to house.

• Dry food for neutered cats: how to prevent weight gainFood

  After neutering, a cat’s needs change. Kibble selection criteria, portion sizes, food transition and budget: the complete guide to keeping weight off.

• Cat water fountain: why you need one and how to choose itFood

  Cats often drink too little. Flow settings, filters, materials, maintenance and prices: everything to choose a water fountain your cat will actually use.

• Cat scratching post: how to save your sofa (complete method)Bedding & habitat

  Is your cat scratching the sofa? Scratcher types, strategic placement and a gentle redirection method: the full action plan to protect your furniture.

• Cat carrier: the guide to stress-free journeysTravel & safety

  Choosing the right cat carrier and getting your cat used to it calmly: size, materials, car safety standards and a step-by-step habituation method.

• Parasite treatments for cats: spot-ons, collars or tablets?Care & grooming

  Fleas, ticks, worms: an overview of cat parasite treatments, their formats, their limits and the dangerous mistakes to avoid, with veterinary advice.

• Toys for indoor cats: keeping your feline busy all day longToys & enrichment

  Wand toys, treat dispensers, ball tracks, puzzle feeders: how to keep an indoor cat entertained and prevent boredom, with budgets and routines.

• Manual or microchip cat flap: which one should you install?Travel & safety

  Standard or microchip cat flap: security, fitting in a door, wall or glass, budget and the criteria for letting your cat out with peace of mind.

• Cat grass and catnip: what is the difference and how to use them?Toys & enrichment

  Cat grass for nibbling or euphoria-inducing catnip? Differences, effects, available forms and smart uses for play, the scratcher or the carrier.

• Cat brushes: how to stop finding hair all over the houseAccessories

  Brush, slicker, comb or grooming glove: which tool for which coat? Brushing method, seasonal frequency and anti-hair tips for the home.