Cats are deeply misunderstood animals (says a cat lover). It takes a patient and loving person to care for and create a bond with a cat. They can become your best friend just like a dog can. It’s important to know the best ways to win your cat’s heart over— as a happy cat means a happy home. Take a look at a few of the ways to your cat’s heart below: Catnip: Keep catnip, catnip bubbles and/or catnip toys on hand— there’s even a catnip bush that you can plant outdoors. Catnip will cheer up the grumpiest of cats. It will make the even laziest cat play. However, catnip is not recommended for kittens— they have enough energy. Toy Mice: As everyone knows, cats love to hunt. If you have an indoor cat, getting him/her a few toy mice is a great way to feed this instinct and without the real mice being left at your doorstep. Cat Towers/Shelving: Cats love to sleep and lounge around, but they also love to play and jump around, high above the rest of the world. Cat towers are perfect for both of those actions. If your home or apartment doesn’t have the room for a cat tower then consider adding shelving specifically for your cat. He/she will love to be able to jump from shelf to shelf and sit high above the rest of the animals and people in the home. He/she will feel especially safe and happy with the ability to be high above or down with you. Lots of Love: Cats and kittens love to snuggle and showing them the affection back will enhance that love. However, It’s important to notice the signs of distress, especially if your cat has claws. If you are getting a kitten, be sure to give them the love and attention they need. Although a cat is not a dog, they still require attention and some work. Kittens have a lot of energy just like puppies and it’s important to play with them just as you would with a puppy. Older cats may not have the same amount of energy but they still love to play and snuggle, too. Since animals can’t talk and you can’t read minds, they will always be unpredictable. But, providing your cat with the types of things listed above will enhance the likelihood that your cat will be a very happy cat. And above all pay attention to the signs your cat is giving you such as purring or pinned back ears. Those signs are the only indicators you have in understanding them.