Check out all our tips for sharing a life full of purrs with your little whiskered friend: nutrition, well-being, advice on adopting a kitten, and top cats.
Christmas is approaching, and this year, no question of forgetting our cat under the tree! For those who appreciate recycling and DIY beginners, here are 5 DIY ideas to please your furry friend.
1. A cat tree
We know our cats’ strong taste for boxes and confined spaces in general. Wine crates will therefore be perfect for this DIY project that combines usefulness and recycling.
What you need:
Two wine crates
Three boards: one large for the base, and two small ones for the sides
A spool of sisal rope
A cushion to place in the top crate
A piece of carpet (optional), to place on the base
A drill-driver to fix everything together
2. A fishing rod
For those of you who are less handy, here’s the solution: a fishing rod! An ultra-easy toy to make that will let you play with your cat while awakening its hunter instinct.
What you need:
A rod (any material, as long as it’s not sharp)
A string, which will be securely attached to the rod
A cork, ribbons, pompoms, feathers, little pouches of catnip... Feel free to let your imagination run wild
3. A scratching post
Very easy to make as well, just fix two boards together, and wrap sisal rope around the larger one.
A short board
A larger board
Sisal rope
A drill-driver to fix the two boards together.
4. A super Ziggy house
Our Ziggy cardboard boxes turn into little houses. Don’t hesitate to jazz it up a bit to make your cat’s house the most beautiful one. We especially love this one created by a member of the Ziggy Family.
5. A tipi
If your cat enjoys tranquility and likes having its own hiding spots, this tipi will certainly make it very happy!
What you need:
5 wooden rods, to be securely fixed together
A canvas or cotton cover
Rope, to tie the rods
A safety pin, to fix the cover.
Photo credit cover image: localadventurer.com
Ready, set, DIY!
Normally, we’re more about cat food, fair enough. But this time, we thought their slaves (yes, you) deserved a little treat too. We’re sticking with the Halloween theme with this recipe for black cat cookies, tested and approved by the ENTIRE Ziggy team.
For about 20 cats (not scary at all), you will need:
250g flour
40g cocoa powder
1 egg
150g soft butter
130g sugar
70g brown sugar
A pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
And for a proper icing:
1/2 egg white
80g powdered sugar
Food coloring (optional)
Equipment:
An electric mixer
A cat-shaped cookie cutter
The magic recipe:
For 20 cookies, mix the soft butter with the sugars and vanilla extract, add the egg, then incorporate the flour, cocoa, and salt.
Form a smooth ball and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 5mm thickness and cut out your cats using the cookie cutter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill again for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cookies for 15 minutes.
For the royal icing, whisk the egg white with the sifted powdered sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is white and frothy.
Using a parchment paper cone or a piping bag, draw the nose, whiskers, and eyes of your little cats. Feel free to get creative!
Enjoy your treat and Happy C’Halloween!
Christmas is just around the corner! As the family’s favorite child (no exaggeration here), your little cat will also have a gift under the tree. And even if they haven’t been perfectly well-behaved all year, they still deserve to be spoiled.
Some are timeless classics, others are more original — here are 15 gift ideas your cat is sure to love.
#1 A radiator hammock
In this chilly weather, we’re grateful for this clever invention! Your cat's favorite spot is sorted — we wouldn't mind having the same one.
#2 A designer scratching post
Some brands offer scratching posts with unique shapes that will beautify your home and keep your cat's claws happy.
#3 A cat tree
An especially useful gift for indoor cats. A cat tree lets them climb, jump, and observe their surroundings.
#4 An interactive toy
Give your cat a simple yet effective gift this Christmas that will stimulate and entertain them while you’re away. Perfect for a festive night!
#5 Stylish bowls
Forget old plastic bowls — these dishes will have your cat dining in style from breakfast to dinner.
#6 A bed with built-in tunnel
A two-in-one accessory — brilliant! Your whiskered friend will have hours of play (and rest) ahead.
#7 A travel backpack
Got a curious explorer at home? A cat backpack is the ideal way to take them on adventures with you.
#8 A kangaroo-pocket hoodie
If your cat is clingy and always underfoot, this hoodie with a kangaroo pouch is the answer — keep them close wherever you go.
#9 A fishing rod toy
Who says you have to spend a fortune to please your cat? Easy to make yourself and perfect for shared playtime.
#10 A cozy bed
A super fluffy, snug bed where your kitty can nap the day away in total comfort.
#11 A portrait
Okay, maybe it’s more for you than for them, but who wouldn’t want their cat’s portrait above the fireplace?
#12 A cat-sized sofa
Perfect for long movie nights or reading sessions with their favorite humans.
#13 A catnip toy
Catnip has a natural euphoric effect on cats, thanks to the nepetalactone it contains — great for fun, excitement, and relaxation all at once!
#14 A cat massager
Yes, you heard that right! You can now get your cat their very own massage device.
#15 The Ziggy dry & wet food box
We saved the best for last: the Ziggy gift box with 1kg of kibble, 4 chicken wet meals, and 4 salmon wet meals.
Place it under the tree or by the fire for a cozy, purring Christmas.
In autumn and winter, grey skies and gloom often set the tone — but there's no way we're giving in to the blues! We’ve put together a cozy wellness activity list to enjoy at home with your cat.
#1 Books, a hot drink, and a cat
Instead of watching TV, why not spend some time reading with your kitty? Our shelves are full of books we've never read. Reading helps us escape and disconnect. And why not read to learn? With time slowing down, it's a great moment to dive into exotic cookbooks, vegetarian recipes, or your good old baking guide to brighten up your afternoons. You could also learn a new language, take up sewing, embrace a greener lifestyle, or explore nutrition — the possibilities are endless depending on what you love!
#2 Light some candles for a cozy vibe
Light a few candles at home, in the living room or even during a bath, for total relaxation. We love autumnal scents like cinnamon, cotton, gingerbread, or wood fire. It even makes us excited for winter! Just be sure your cat doesn’t play with the flames.
#3 Massage session and purring
What’s more relaxing than a long massage and some gentle petting? Just hearing our furry friend purring on our lap helps us forget everyday stress. It's scientifically proven — purr therapy is good for us.
#4 Video games in good company
Gamers, take note... if you can finish a round in peace, hats off! You're more likely to laugh watching your cat stare at the screen or play with the cables.
#5 A nap for two
Your furry hot water bottle is the perfect nap companion. Their warmth helps us relax and drift off to dreamland. See? Being at home isn’t so bad after all.
#6 Yog’cat session
This pose may not be for everyone (definitely not us!), but a simple session of gentle exercise, yoga, stretching, relaxation or meditation with our furry pals can boost our endorphins — the feel-good hormones. It’s perfect in the morning or evening to clear your mind and recharge. Namaste!
#7 Aperitif time
Of course, we didn’t forget this one! What better way to end the day than with a warm, comforting meal? Head to the kitchen and cook something special for your loved ones — or just for yourself! And for your cat? Ziggy’s got it covered!
#8 Capture the good times
You probably already have (at least) 3,000 cat photos on your phone… and so what? Take this quiet moment to snap some more and immortalize your furry friend’s cutest expressions. Why not print a few and create a lovely photo wall?
#9 Pamper yourself and your cat
Face mask, manicure, moisturized skin... take time to treat yourself! And why not invite your cat to join the spa moment? He might not be into nail polish, but he’ll likely enjoy a good brushing and cuddle session. On our blog, we share tips to massage your cat.
#10 Get cooking
Sweet or savory, healthy or indulgent... whip up something delicious! Is your kitty eyeing your plate? No worries, we’ve got them covered too!
We thought of you with this selection of books about cats that won’t leave you indifferent! Novels, a "cat lover" dictionary, books about nutrition and behavior... There’s something for every taste. Get comfortable with a blanket, a cup of tea, and your kitty on your lap, and get ready for many hours of reading.
#1 "Story of a Seagull and the Cat Who Taught Her to Fly", by Luis Sepúlveda
A classic that never gets old. This book is a lovely tale within the animal kingdom, filled with tenderness and humor, addressing current topics such as solidarity, pollution, and tolerance.
Summary:
"Zorbas the black cat makes a promise to the seagull that came to die on his balcony. He will take care of her last egg, protect the chick, and teach it to fly. Even the cats of the Hamburg harbor will rally and support Zorbas. The adventures of Zorbas and Afortunada awaken feelings of solidarity, tenderness, nature, and poetry."
#2 "Act and Think Like a Cat", by Stéphane Garnier
A book that will teach you to live better by taking example from the cat, long recognized as a master of the art. Bonus: the cat’s name is Ziggy!
Summary:
"Stéphane Garnier and Ziggy, his four-legged companion, guide you through this personal development manual like no other. The goal? To get inspired by the cat’s qualities to make life easier! Learn to become curious, calm, and demanding. Also, how to no longer give in to daily pressures and better resist stress."
#3 "Diary of a Grumpy Cat", by Frédéric Pouhier and Susie Jung-Hee Jouffa
A funny and unusual book about the daily life of an extraordinary cat, yet so realistic!
Summary:
"Very much a homebody, Edgar cares about his comfort more than anything in the world. And he is definitely not ready to accept the upcoming family vacation! You’ll love to hate him."
#4 "The Cat Lover’s Dictionary", by Frédéric Vitoux
More than 700 pages to discover the world of cats, stories, and anecdotes. Got some time ahead? Perfect!
Summary:
"The topics are varied: alley cats, pedigree cats, cats in movies, books, and advertisements, myths and superstitions, cats and birds, cat grooming, cat falls... This book is best savored bit by bit: one story each evening!"
#5 "His Majesty the Cats", by Bernard Werber
Dive into a post-apocalyptic world where cats must ally with humans. Fiction or a warning from the author about human excesses?
Summary:
"The capital is in the middle of a civil war and about to face a plague epidemic in the first volume 'Tomorrow the Cats'. The cat Bastet wants to organize the world of tomorrow. According to her, a feline civilization must take over from human civilization. But before becoming its queen, she must reconsider her plans because for a cat civilization to exist, it must understand three human concepts: love, humor, and art."
#6 "The League of Cats Against the Eco Human", by Bénédicte Moret
If you want a good laugh, we highly recommend this comic where you might recognize yourself!
Summary:
"Pascal is a real cat! The subtle art of enslaving humans holds no secrets for him. The only downside: his apprentice Michel, whose ‘catness’ leaves something to be desired. Worse: the perfidious bipeds strike back and decide to involve them in their eco-fads, on a backdrop of miserable organic kibble. Things are serious! Pascal has no choice but to found the 'Feline League Against the Eco Human.' But can he win this war with a soldier like Michel...?"
#7 "Conversations with My Cat", by Eduardo Jauregui
A reading about small daily joys and life’s big questions. A clever mix of feel-good novel and personal development book.
Summary:
"A funny Abyssinian cat knocks on Sara’s window and talks to her. She thinks she’s hallucinating. Then the cat asks surprisingly sensible questions: Is she really happy? What does she expect from life? The psychoanalysis can begin!"
#8 "The Cats of Louise Michel", by Christian Wacrenier
Suspense, humor, and sensitivity mingle in this beautiful book.
Summary:
"Around Louise-Michel square in Paris, a group of cat lovers creates the association 'The Homeless Cat', aiming to save the neighborhood cats. The very endearing characters meet every week over a glass of port. Until their daily life changes radically when Alain is found dead surrounded by his seven cats. At first, it seems like suicide, but other group members soon receive strange threats... This is only the beginning of a dark series for the members of 'The Homeless Cat.'"
#9 "The Madness of Cats", by Claude Béata
This is our favorite book: very informative, it dives into the psychology of cats. If you want to know everything about your furry friend, "The Madness of Cats" is for you!
Summary:
"Many of us are crazy about our cats and this passion can be mutual. The cat is an attachment being. It seduces us, fascinates us, but relationships with it can sometimes be puzzling (...) Based on his own experience, life with cats, and the latest data from ethology and animal psychiatry, Claude Béata reveals the secrets of feline behavior in this book—full of apparent contradictions that are understood through knowledge."
#10 "To End with Cat Kibble!", by Pascal Corlay
We get to the heart of the matter with this book that finally focuses on our cats’ bowls.
Summary:
"This is an investigation to end with the sad tale of bad commercial foods served in bowls. Pascal Corlay, who is a cat enthusiast, nutritionist, and veterinary advisor, presents the results of his research and tests of many pet food brands. The aim? To help us understand what is really good for our cats and how to improve their well-being through nutrition."
Don't have kids but still dream of celebrating Halloween? You could borrow your neighbor's kids (not recommended, that might seem weird) or simply celebrate Halloween with your cat. Well, why not? All that's left is to find them one of these costumes...
10 Cat Costumes That Will Make You Love Halloween
#1 Count Catula
Another cat thirsty for pâté.
#2 Captain Hook Cat
Ready to destroy your sofa.
#3 We wouldn't want this cat next to us when we sleep
Boo.
#4 The naughty little wizard
We've seen scarier, that's true.
#5 I am your cat
I know, I'm the one who feeds you every day.
#6 Ready for the candy harvest
When do we eat?
#7 We give 10 points to Gryffindor!
And we hope it’s a 5-year-old who made the glasses.
#8 Yoda overdid it a bit on the candy
I told you not to eat it all at once.
#9 Probably the scariest photo you will see today
We'll go trick-or-treating later, let's stay home with this kitten.
#10 Trick or Pâté
Don't laugh. It's the worst nightmare for some of us.
Winter is coming fast (as they say, "Winter is coming") and with it comes the desire to feel cozy at home, warm and surrounded by a welcoming decor (catmosphere? Ok ok, we'll stop).And since cat accessories don’t always match good taste, we picked some DIY ideas and decor articles for a purrfect decoration!
#1 The cat cactus
The classic cat tree is overrated? We recommend the cactus version.
#2 The hammock
A cushion and a suitable bedside table will make a cozy bed for your cat, placed right next to yours, of course. Isn’t that nice?
#3 The wall-mounted scratching post
Tired of your cat scratching the sofa? We found the alternative: a pretty scratching frame to hang on the wall.
#4 The shelves
A real parcours throughout the whole house for them — even better than Disneyland.
#5 The tipi
Temperatures are dropping, so it’s time to buy or make a tent for your little companion to snuggle in. A little Pocahontas vibe, no?
#6 The cat tree, more real than life
To play king of the hill all night long. Woohoo!
#7 A hanging basket
Cozy and up high (to better watch you), everything our cats love.
#8 The litter box with style
A litter box in a closet, easily accessible thanks to a cat flap. Nice, isn’t it? We love it!
#9 Some greenery
A patch of grass, to nibble on for digestion or just to sunbathe (well, these days it’s more under the rain). Still, we approve the comfort.
#10 The perch
To watch outside (and keep an eye out for your return). Even more appreciated if you live in an apartment.
Got some decor ideas or DIY tutorials to share? We’re all ears!
Some people tend to focus on the downsides of having a pet at home, without even considering all the benefits. We’ve prepared a list of 10 great reasons to adopt a cat — enough to convince even the most skeptical dads.
Here are 10 great reasons to adopt a cat
#1 They’re exceptional companions
You’ll hate leaving them in the morning and be so happy to see them again in the evening. Our cats are a true source of joy and they never let us down.
#2 You’re giving a lovely furball a chance
And in doing so, you’re helping to relieve overcrowded shelters, which are sadly overwhelmed due to pet abandonment...
via GIPHY
#3 It teaches responsibility
Taking care of a pet requires a certain level of maturity. By adopting a cat, you commit to many years of mutual care and affection.
#4 You get a new excuse
“I can’t, it’s my cat’s birthday.”
via GIPHY
#5 Cats help keep you healthy
Numerous studies have shown that having a pet strengthens your immune system and can even reduce the risk of heart attacks. Ever heard of “purr therapy”? It’s the soothing effect humans feel from the low-frequency vibrations and sounds cats make when purring.
#6 They’re independent
Although your cat needs quality time with you, it can also stay alone and entertain itself. That said, some clingy kitties may demand a bit more attention than others.
#7 You’ll never feel alone again
Literally never. Not on the toilet, not under the covers, not in the shower.With a cat at home, you’ve got a full-time roommate. Or maybe... you’re *their* roommate. Think about it.
via GIPHY
#8 Adopt a cat to stay warm all winter
Say goodbye to cold nights — our cats are by far the coziest blankets.
#9 They easily adapt
All they want is love (and wet food). They get along with everyone: seniors, kids — even if you’re grumpy, your cat will still love you.
#10 A cat at home = instant good vibes
Cats are strange creatures… Between crab jumps, ceiling Spiderman moves, and yocat’ yoga sessions, you’ll never be bored.
via GIPHY
It’s undeniable, we love our cats in all shapes, colors, and sizes! Discover 5 breeds of large cats and their characteristics. Note: some "alley cats" can also reach remarkable sizes.
#1 The Maine Coon
The giant of cats! With its rustic yet majestic appearance, it is hard to confuse it with other cat breeds. Originating from the state of Maine in the United States, legend has it that it is the result of a cross between a cat and a raccoon.
The Maine Coon cat is characterized by its large size, square muzzle, almond-shaped eyes, semi-long fur, and tufts on the ears, also called "lynx tips." The weight of an adult Maine Coon can range from 6 to 9 kg. Very affectionate and sociable, it’s a real dog-like cat whose meow resembles a cooing sound.
We present Perle, a member of the Ziggy Family and only five months old at the time of the photo, already a big baby!
#2 The Savannah
Resulting from a cross between a Serval, a wild cat native to Africa, and a domestic cat, the Savannah is a recent and rare cat breed. The first generation of Savannahs was born in the United States in 1986, with the only kitten from a Siamese mother and a Serval father. The Savannah cat can weigh between 7 and 9 kg, making it an imposing cat. Its head is triangular and small compared to its body and ears. Another distinctive feature is its spotted tabby coat pattern, directly inherited from the Serval.
#3 The Norwegian Forest Cat
Also called Norwegian Forest Cat or norsk skogkatt, it is a large cat weighing between 4 and 9 kg. Unlike other breeds, it is a natural breed whose evolution is not the result of human crossbreeding or selection. The existence of the Norwegian cat dates back to the Viking era. This exceptional hunter protected food reserves against rodents. Its very abundant coat covers a robust bone structure. The Norwegian Forest Cat is sociable and affectionate, loves to be active, and does not enjoy solitude much.
#4 The Highlander
The Highlander cat breed is still extremely rare but is gradually developing. Its appearance reminds us of a lynx. The physical characteristics of the Highlander are its large size, curled ears that roll in on themselves, and short tail. It is far from a lightweight cat, as an adult can weigh up to 11 kg. Very intelligent and affectionate, it is a cat full of energy.
#5 The Ragdoll
Originating from the United States, its name literally means "rag doll." The Ragdoll results from a cross between an Angora Persian and a Sacred Birman. It is recognized by its imposing appearance, very abundant coat, and blue eyes. An adult Ragdoll cat can weigh up to 9 kg! Calm, gentle, and affectionate, it is an excellent companion.
Are you looking for the best dry food to keep your cat purring and his tummy happy? Here are a few insights and tips to help you choose the right food for your cat.
Wet food best meets your cat's natural needs, provided it contains premium ingredients! Here are a few expert tips for looking after their well-being and choosing the best wet food for your fluffy friend.
Your kitten’s just been neutered, and you probably have lots of questions about his diet. Should you feed your neutered kitten adult cat food? Can you still give dry food for kittens to your neutered kitten? When and how should his diet be changed? Don’t worry, we tell you all about it in this article.
L'arrivée d'un chaton à la maison est un grand moment, pour vous comme pour lui ! C'est une longue histoire d'amour qui débute. Voici quelques conseils pour l'accueillir dans des conditions optimales.
Our guides
Download our free guides to help you ensure your cat's health and well-being (french only)!
At Ziggy, we believe that feeding our cats well starts with properly understanding what they eat. We wrote with guide with a lot of purrs to explain you everything.
At Ziggy, your cat’s well-being is our top priority.
Our mission goes beyond offering ultra-healthy and delicious recipes: we also make it a point of honor to support you every day.
Behind every message, every call, and every piece of advice are three adorable cat moms: true cat lovers, trained in feline nutrition to best answer all your questions.
Our cat moms are here to help you Monday through Friday.