Common Mistakes New Cat Owners Make

What We Wish We Knew Before Tin

We made every mistake in the book when Tin first came home. Learn from our experience.

Mistake #1: Not Enough Litter Boxes

The rule is N+1 — one litter box per cat, plus one extra. Placed in different locations. Cats won't use a dirty box or one in a high-traffic area.

Mistake #2: Declawing

It's not a manicure — it's amputation of the last bone in each toe. It causes chronic pain, behavioral problems, and is banned in many countries. Instead: provide scratching posts, use nail caps, and trim nails regularly.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Dental Health

Most cats over 3 have dental disease. Annual dental checkups and home brushing prevent painful (and expensive) dental procedures later.

Mistake #4: Free-Feeding Dry Food

Cats are obligate carnivores designed to eat small, frequent meals. Leaving a full bowl out leads to obesity. Measure portions and feed on a schedule.

Mistake #5: Skipping Vet Visits

Indoor cats still need annual checkups and vaccinations. Cats hide illness incredibly well — by the time they show symptoms, the problem is often advanced.

Mistake #6: Not Playing Enough

A bored cat is a destructive cat. 15-20 minutes of interactive play twice daily keeps them physically and mentally healthy.

Tin forgave us for our rookie mistakes. Your cat will too — especially if you learn from ours.