As long as you’re making a list of New Year’s resolutions for yourself, why not jot down a few for your cat as well

Your cat needs your help to develop good habits. That’s why we’ve put together this list of potential New Year’s resolutions you and your cat can commit to together! Whether it’s brushing your cat’s teeth every day, making sure their meals are meeting their nutritional needs, or engaging in an easy to stick-to exercise routine, a small change can make a big impact on your cat’s life. We’ve included a few of our favorites below:

Resolve to help your cat lose weight:
Humans aren’t the only ones affected by the obesity epidemic. Our cats’ waistlines are bulging, too. Nearly half our nation’s cats are overweight or obese, according to a study by the American Journal of Veterinary Research. All that extra weight can increase your cat’s risk for developing diabetes, arthritis, and a host of other ailments exacerbated by extra fat. Although you should always consult a veterinarian before committing to a regimented weight loss program for your cat, there are a few things you can start doing TODAY to battle the bulge:

• Remove your cat from the room when the family eats.
• Feed your cat several small meals throughout the day.
• Feed all meals and treats in the cat’s bowl only.
• Reduce snacks or treats.
• Provide non-food related attention.

Resolve to take better care of your cat’s appearance: You’re not the only one who likes to be pampered. Make your cat feel like a whole new kitty with a head to tail makeover.

• Dental Care. Bacteria and plaque-forming foods can cause build-up on your cat’s teeth. This can harden into tartar, possibly causing gingivitis, receding gums and tooth loss. We recommend that you brush your feline companion’s teeth every other day for optimal dental health.
• Grooming. Regular grooming sessions with a brush or comb will help keep your cat’s hair in good condition by removing dirt, spreading natural oils throughout their coat, preventing tangles and keeping their skin clean and irritant-free.
• Paw Care. Make sure to provide your kitty with a scratching post since felines need to scratch to shed their outer nail sheaths and reveal the sharp, smooth claws underneath.

Resolve to spend more quality time with your cat: The greatest gift you can give your cat is quality time together. Spend a few minutes each day playing with your cat. Exercise is essential for your cat’s mental and physical health because it relieves stress and boredom, improves circulation, builds muscle tone and can prevent or reduce behavioral problems.