Veterinarians share their solutions to 10 common problems cat owners have

Sophia MitrokostasJun 26, 2020, 02:52 IST

If your cat is keeping you up all night, you may want to try tiring them out before bedtime with some toys.Shutterstock

Insider spoke with vets about how to solve common problems cat owners may face.
Getting a heavier scratching post may stop your cat from tearing up the furniture.
If your cat isn't using their litter box, try moving it to a new location or trying a different style of box.
If you feel your pet is acting strangely, you may want to have them checked by a vet as some common cat problems can be attributed to an underlying medical issue.

Keeping your cat happy and healthy isn't always straightforward, especially when your feline friend starts behaving in unusual ways.

Insider spoke with veterinarians to find out their solutions to the most common problems that cat owners face.

Here's how to deal with everything from hairballs to accidents outside of the litter box.

You may be able to stop your cat from tearing up furniture by getting them a heavier scratching post.

Cats will often be more likely to use a scratching post if it's sturdy. iStock / Getty Images Plus/ Anna Volgina

Long-haired cats required more brushing than short-haired ones. Getty/Royalty-free/cunfek

Some cats are most active at night. Shutterstock

If your cat isn't using their litter box, you may need to replace it with a different style of box. iStock

You may want to check your cat's mouth before letting them indoors. Shutterstock

When playing with a cat, don't use your fingers or hands as toys. Shutterstock

Avoid feeding your cat scraps from your table. Shutterstock

Sometimes cats act out when they are in pain or feeling anxious. Shutterstock

If your cat is grooming themselves constantly, there may be a more serious health issue at play. cristinairanzo/Royalty-free Getty Images

Certain bowls are designed to slow down your cat's eating speed. iStock