It might be an extra unhinged time we are living in, but being a guardian to a cat *can* be a source of comfort. By focusing on routine, play, mindfulness, and small moments of joy, you can create a calm and enriching environment despite what's happening out there. So take a deep breath, give your cat a slow blink, and remind yourself that you’re not alone—your tiny magical cat friend is right there with you, every step of the way.
1. Establish a Routine for You and Your Cat
Cats thrive on routine, and frankly, so do we. Blocking times for certain activities, ie. having a predictable schedule for foodies, play sessions, and cuddle breaks, creates stability for you and Mr. Meow. Even when the world feels like it's crashing out, sticking to a daily rhythm can ground you.
2. Lean Into Playtime for Stress Relief
Interactive play isn’t just for your cat—it’s a great stress reliever for you, too. Structured play sessions that involve you being present and aware, like using a wand toy or a game of hide and seek, not only helps your cat burn pent-up energy but also gives your brain a break from thinking about the next thing so and so has up their sleeve.
3. Prepare for Uncertainty
Being prepared can help reduce anxiety for both you and your cat. If keeping a stash of essential supplies like food, litter, and any necessary medications around eases your mind, do it! Get yourself a safe transport carrier for your cat (a pillowcase works just fine in a pinch) and keep things all in one spot or packed into a bag that is easy to grab and go if needed. Knowing you’re prepared can ease stress and help you focus on providing a stable environment for your cat.
4. Practice Deep Breathing (Your Cat Can Join Too!)
Your cat picks up on your stress levels, so taking a few minutes to slow your breathing can help both of you. Try sitting with your cat, focusing on slow inhales and exhales, and letting the vibrations of their motor guide you into relaxation. Bonus points if you get them to flop onto your chest like a living, purring weighted blanket.
5. Ditch the Doomscrolling—Watch Your Cat Instead
It’s easy to get sucked into a stress spiral of bad news (guilty). Instead of doomscrolling, try catscrolling. As in, watch your cat go about their day. Observe their little habits, from dramatic stretches to intense biscuit-making to get those orders out. Watching your fluffy little guy is a great reminder to stay present and find joy in the small moments.
6. Use Calming Tools
If the chaos of the world is getting to both you and your cat, consider using calming aids like pheromone diffusers, calming treats, or putting on some soft ambient music. These can create a more relaxing atmosphere in your home, benefiting both you and your floof.
7. Set Boundaries and Take Breaks
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, side step away from your to-do's, email, news feeds, and social apps, even if it's for five minutes. Walk around your house and drop a cat treat every five or ten steps. Open a window and breathe in some fresh air with your cat. Sometimes, a few minutes of uninterrupted ear scritches and head boops can work wonders.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed about things beyond our direct control but remember, you have a cat and while your cat doesn’t need perfection — they do need you. As long as they’re fed, loved, and given opportunities to play, they’re happy. So the next time you're spinning out, give yourself the same grace you give your cat: shut the tech down, rest when needed, play when you can, and find comfort in the small joys.
Hugs to all the stressed out, caring humans out there who felt like it has been a long year these past few weeks.
Many thanks for these wonderful suggestions! They are much needed and much aPURReciated in these dire times. >^^<
Thank you for these reminders!
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