Short-haired domestic cats are some of the most common — and loved — cats in UK households. They are adaptable, affectionate, full of personality, and generally easier to maintain than long-haired breeds. But like any pet, they still rely on you to give them the care and routines they need to stay healthy and content.
This guide covers everything you need to know to give your short-haired domestic cat the happiest life possible.
1. Regular Vet Visits: Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Even if your cat seems perfectly healthy, regular veterinary check-ups are essential. Routine visits help you catch issues early and keep your cat feeling their best.
Vet visits help with:
- Vaccinations and boosters
- Early detection of health issues
- Monitoring weight and body condition
- Dental checks
- Parasite prevention
Adult cats should visit the vet once a year, and senior cats may need check-ups every six months. This ensures that potential issues are spotted long before they become serious.
2. Keep the Litter Box Fresh and Clean
Short-haired cats love a clean toilet area. A dirty litter tray can lead to stress, behavioural issues, or even inappropriate toileting around the home.
Litter care tips:
- Scoop the tray daily
- Empty and refill completely every 2–4 weeks
- Use a low-dust litter like Pacha Litter to keep your home fresh
- Provide one litter tray per cat, plus one extra
Cats appreciate privacy and hygiene. A clean, well-maintained litter tray helps them feel safe, comfortable, and relaxed in their environment.
3. Hydration: Keep Fresh Water Available
Many cats do not drink enough water, especially if they eat mainly dry food. Encouraging good hydration is essential for their overall health.
Encourage hydration by:
- Providing multiple water bowls around the house
- Keeping bowls away from food to encourage drinking
- Refreshing water daily
- Using ceramic or stainless-steel bowls, which stay cleaner
- Trying a cat water fountain for cats who prefer running water
Good hydration helps prevent kidney issues, urinary tract problems, and dehydration — especially during warmer months or in heated homes.
4. Treat for Fleas and Ticks (Even Indoor Cats)
Even cats who never step outdoors can pick up fleas or ticks from visitors, other pets, or clothing brought into the home.
Protect your cat by:
- Using monthly preventative treatments
- Asking your vet which product is safest and most effective
- Checking for signs of itching, small dark "flea dirt", or excessive grooming
Early prevention keeps your cat comfortable and stops infestations before they start, protecting both your pet and your home.
5. Exercise and Play: Keep Them Active
Short-haired domestic cats can easily gain weight if they love food more than exercise. Active play helps prevent obesity and keeps your cat mentally stimulated.
Great exercise ideas include:
- Wand toys
- Laser pointers (ending the session with something your cat can catch)
- Toy mice
- Feather teasers
- Climbing trees or scratching posts
Aim for 10–20 minutes of play, twice a day. This keeps your cat fit, reduces boredom, and strengthens the bond between you and your cat.
6. Provide Comfort, Love, and a Calm Environment
Short-haired domestic cats may be independent, but they still need affection, security, and engagement from their humans.
Ways to make them feel at home:
- Give them cosy resting spots
- Offer scratching posts to protect your furniture
- Provide window perches for safe outdoor viewing
- Keep their routine consistent where possible
- Spend daily quality time together, whether playing or cuddling
A happy cat is confident, relaxed, and affectionate — and will reward you with years of companionship.
Final Thoughts
Short-haired domestic cats are wonderful pets with huge personalities. With the right care — regular vet checks, fresh water, proper exercise, grooming, and a clean litter tray using Pacha Litter — your cat will thrive in your home for many years.
Good routines do more than keep your cat healthy; they also build trust and create a loving bond between you and your feline friend.
