Every cat owner in the UK wants their beloved pet to enjoy a long and healthy life. However, a leading veterinarian has issued a stark warning, revealing that several common but easily avoidable mistakes could be seriously compromising the wellbeing of our feline companions.
The Vet's Crucial Warning on Feline Health
Dr Amir Anwary, a practising vet who shares professional advice on TikTok under the username @Amirthevet, has compiled a list of nine frequent errors made by cat owners. He states these mistakes "really affect the quality of their cat's life". Dr Amir is explaining the list in a series of videos, with the first instalment covering three of the most significant issues.
Mistake One: Relying Solely on Dry Food
The first point raised by Dr Amir is one he describes as "controversial" but vital. He strongly advises against feeding cats an exclusively dry food diet. The vet explains that kidney disease and bladder problems are among the most common conditions seen in cats, and both are closely linked to chronic dehydration.
Cats are notoriously poor drinkers, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors who derived roughly 80% of their necessary hydration from their prey. Dr Amir argues that modern domestic cats are "not very well designed to eat dry pellets", which provide minimal moisture.
His solution is clear: incorporating wet food into their daily diet is "absolutely essential". For owners who prefer dry food, he recommends providing a cat water fountain to encourage increased drinking and help stave off dangerous dehydration.
Mistake Two: Neglecting Essential Enrichment
While cats are often seen as low-maintenance pets, Dr Amir warns that many owners fall into the trap of providing insufficient mental and physical stimulation. This lack of enrichment is a particular risk for indoor cats, who have fewer natural opportunities for exploration and hunting.
The vet cautions that bored or under-stimulated cats can quickly develop anxiety and unwanted behavioural problems. To prevent this, he urges owners to ensure their pets have access to interactive toys, secure windowsills for bird watching, and other forms of environmental engagement. Regular enrichment is not a luxury but a necessity for a cat's mental health.
Mistake Three: Making Sudden Food Changes
The third common error identified by Dr Amir is abruptly switching a cat's diet, whether due to running out of a usual brand or a deliberate change. He states "I see this so often", and the consequences can be severe and costly.
A sudden change in food can cause gastrointestinal distress, leading to vomiting and a trip to the veterinary clinic within a day or two. To avoid unnecessary suffering for the pet and an expensive vet bill, Dr Amir provides a simple rule: any diet change must be implemented gradually over a period of seven days. This slow transition allows the cat's sensitive digestive system to adapt without becoming upset.
Dr Amir Anwary's advice underscores that proactive, informed care is key to safeguarding our cats' health. By avoiding these common pitfalls regarding diet, enrichment, and routine, owners can significantly enhance their pet's quality of life and longevity.
