Whether they’re napping under the frangipani or sunbathing on your yoga mat, cats in Bali live a lifestyle we secretly envy. But behind every peaceful purr is a human doing the daily dance—between feeding times, surprise vet runs, and scratching posts that were once expensive furniture.
So this International Cat Day, we celebrate the ones who keep us grounded (and covered in fur), with a few life hacks for raising a happy island cat—whether you’re a long-term local or a fresh-off-the-flight fosterer.
1. Hydration Is Their Love Language
Cats can be picky drinkers. Bali’s heat doesn’t help.
Hack it: Get a pet water fountain to keep water flowing and fresh. Add ice cubes on hot days—or freeze tuna water into cubes for a treat.
2. Coconut Oil Is a Miracle (Again)
That magical island staple is good for more than cooking and skincare.
Hack it: A dab of coconut oil in your cat’s food helps digestion and gives their coat that glossy, Bali-goddess glow. Also works to soothe minor scratches or dry paw pads.
3. Local Vets Who Get Island Cats
Knowing where to go when things get hairy is essential.
Hack it: Save these two in your contacts:
- Sunset Vet (Seminyak & Ubud)
- The Balipet Clinic (Canggu)
Both are trusted by expats and locals alike, with emergency care and kind hearts.
4. Island Cats Need Bug Defense Too
Fleas, ticks, and mozzies love your furry friend as much as you do.
Hack it: Monthly flea treatments are non-negotiable in the tropics. Opt for vet-recommended brands like Revolution or Bravecto, and check their ears regularly.
5. No Garden? No Problem.
Indoor life doesn’t have to be boring.
Hack it: Grow cat grass or catnip on your balcony. Use wall shelves as mini jungle gyms. Hide treats in coconut shells to stimulate their natural curiosity.
6. Rescue, Don’t Shop
Bali’s streets are full of deserving furballs looking for homes.
Hack it: Follow accounts like @bawabali_official and @missionpawsible for rescue stories and adoption updates. Fostering is also a great way to start without full commitment.
7. Cat-Sitting = Island Karma
Planning a quick escape to Nusa Penida or Java?
Hack it: Join Facebook groups like “Bali Cat Lovers” or “Pet Sitting Bali” to find trusted sitters. Bonus: many are fellow cat owners who understand that “just feed them” is never enough.
At the end of the day, island cats remind us to slow down.
Happy International Cat Day.
Give them a treat—or better yet, a box they’ll never use.
