The beauty in pet parenting lies in the mundane. However, as humans, we are wired to be unable to withhold our excitement for birthdays. As pets become more acquainted with the family, the desire to celebrate their special days grows. As naturally as it clicks in for dogs, navigating that same lens for cats can be tricky, which is why it requires some adjustments.
Cats are not social butterflies who enjoy the company of humans or other animals. Some cats prefer to keep to themselves and avoid social interaction, earning them the title of “antisocial.” If you have an antisocial cat and their birthday is coming up, you might be wondering how to celebrate the special day without overwhelming them. Fortunately, there are ways to make their birthday special without forcing them out of their comfort zone. Here are some tips on how to celebrate an antisocial cat’s birthday.
Treat it like a normal day with subtle twists
The key to celebrating an antisocial cat’s birthday is to keep things very low-key. Unlike dogs, cats do not require a lot of attention or fuss, and some may even find it stressful. You can celebrate your cat’s birthday by simply spending some quality time with them, giving them extra treats, or buying them a new toy. Avoid throwing a big party with lots of guests, loud music, and decorations, as this is likely to make your cat feel anxious or overwhelmed. As much as humans are in awe of their pets and celebrations, the two do not coincide. The best you can do is to create small, simple moments of joy that mean a lot to the pet parent as well as the cat.
Treat them to their favourite food
One way to make your cat feel special on their birthday is to treat them to their favourite food. Whether it’s a particular brand of cat food or a special treat, giving your cat their favourite food is a simple way to show them how much you care. You can also prepare a special meal for them, such as a small piece of cooked chicken or fish, as long as it is safe for them to eat. However, be mindful of not overfeeding them or giving them anything that could upset their stomach. It is supposed to be joyous for them.
Buy them a new toy
Cats love toys, and a new toy can be a great birthday gift for your antisocial cat. However, when choosing a toy, it’s important to consider your cat’s personality and preferences. Some cats prefer toys that they can play with independently, such as a ball or a puzzle feeder, while others prefer interactive toys, such as a wand toy or a laser pointer. Experiment with different types of toys and observe which ones your cat enjoys the most.
Create a safe space for them
Antisocial cats often prefer to have their own space where they can retreat when they want to be alone. Creating that kind of space for your cat can be a great birthday gift, as it provides them with a safe and comfortable place to relax. You can do that by setting up a cat bed in a quiet corner of your home, adding some soft blankets, and placing some of their favourite toys nearby. I gifted a cat a bed on her birthday a while ago, and it is her favourite thing ever still to this day.
Spend quality time with them
While some cats may not enjoy being cuddled or picked up, they still crave human interaction and affection in their own way. Spending quality time with your antisocial cat can be the best way to celebrate their birthday and strengthen your bond with them. You can do this by simply sitting next to them and petting them, playing with them using their favourite toys, or even just talking to them in a soothing voice.
Take them for a check-up
If your cat’s birthday falls around the time of their annual check-up, why not combine the two? Taking your cat to the vet for a check-up on their birthday might not sound like the most exciting way to celebrate, but it is important for their health and wellbeing. Plus, your cat might appreciate the extra attention and affection they receive from you during the visit.
In conclusion, celebrating an antisocial cat’s birthday does not have to be complicated or stressful. The key is to keep things simple and to focus on the things that your cat enjoys. By treating them to their favourite food, buying them a new toy, creating a cosy space for them, spending quality time with them, and taking them for a check-up, you create more of a celebratory space than you realise!
