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Written by Paul
Dr Paul Manktelow is a vet who’s worked for almost 20 years on the front line in some of the UK’s busiest veterinary hospitals. As Chief Vet in the Charity Sector, he leads a team of vets and nurses that treat thousands of pets every year. Paul also appears regularly in the media as a TV and radio presenter, writer, public speaker and podcast producer.
Cats are often described as the perfect low-maintenance pet.
They do not need daily walks, can be left alone for longer periods than most dogs, and are often viewed as independent creatures that largely take care of themselves.
While there is some truth to this, the idea that cats require very little from their owners can be misleading. In fact, one of the biggest welfare challenges facing cats today is the assumption that they are easy pets who simply need food, water and a litter tray.
The reality is that cats have complex physical, emotional and behavioural needs. When those needs are not met, the consequences can affect both their welfare and their relationship with their owners.
Why the Myth Exists
It is easy to see how this perception developed.
Unlike dogs, cats do not need regular walks. Many are happy to spend long periods sleeping, and they often appear content entertaining themselves.
Historically, cats were also valued for their role as hunters, controlling rodents around homes, farms and businesses. This contributed to the idea that cats are naturally self-sufficient and require little human involvement.
However, modern domestic cats live very different lives from their ancestors.
Many spend much of their time indoors, have limited opportunities to express natural behaviours, and rely entirely on their owners to provide an environment that meets their needs.
What Cats Actually Need
Although every cat is different, most benefit from the same core foundations.
Predictable Routine
Cats generally thrive on consistency. Feeding times, sleeping areas and daily interactions that remain relatively predictable can help reduce stress and promote a sense of security.
Environmental Enrichment
Cats are natural hunters and explorers. Even indoor cats need opportunities to climb, scratch, hide, investigate and play.
Simple additions such as scratching posts, puzzle feeders, elevated resting spaces and interactive toys can make a significant difference to their wellbeing.
Safe Spaces
Cats value choice and control. Having quiet places where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed is an important part of creating a cat-friendly environment.
Social Interaction
Although cats are often considered solitary, many enjoy positive interaction with their owners. Some actively seek companionship and can form very strong bonds with the people they live with.
The key is allowing cats to engage on their own terms rather than forcing interaction.
When Needs Are Not Met
One of the challenges with feline welfare is that stress is not always obvious.
A stressed cat may not vocalise or seek attention. Instead, owners might notice subtle changes such as:
- Hiding more frequently
- Changes in appetite
- Overgrooming
- Aggression
- Inappropriate toileting
- Withdrawal from family life
These behaviours are often described as “behaviour problems”, but they can be signs that a cat’s needs are not being fully met.
In some cases, underlying medical conditions can cause similar changes, which is why veterinary advice should always be sought if behaviour changes suddenly.
Understanding Cats Better
One of the themes Annie Clark and I explored in a recent episode of The Consult Room was how many common myths about cats stem from misunderstanding their behaviour and welfare needs.
During the episode, we discuss some of the most common assumptions owners make about cats, why those beliefs persist, and what modern feline welfare science tells us instead. It’s a fascinating conversation for anyone who shares their home with a cat.
The belief that cats are low maintenance may seem harmless, but it can sometimes prevent owners from recognising what cats need to truly thrive.
Cats may be independent in some ways, but independence does not mean they have no needs.
Like any pet, they depend on us to provide the right environment, appropriate stimulation and opportunities to express natural behaviours.
🎧 Listen to the podcast: Cat Myths Busted: Things You Never Knew About Cats on The Consult Room for more insights into feline behaviour, welfare and communication.
When we understand that, we can move beyond the myth of the low-maintenance cat and focus on what really matters: creating a life where our cats feel safe, healthy and fulfilled.
