Cat litter is part of a cat’s everyday life. Although it may seem like a small detail, choosing the right litter has a significant impact on both a cat’s wellbeing and the cleanliness of the home. There are many different types of cat litter available on the market, and finding the right one often requires some research – and sometimes a bit of trial and error.

Cats are individuals. While one cat may accept almost any type of litter, another may completely avoid the litter box if the texture feels unpleasant under their paws or if the litter has an unfamiliar or strong scent. For this reason, both the cat’s needs and the owner’s preferences should be considered when choosing a litter.

There are many different types of cat litter

Traditional clay- and bentonite-based cat litters have long been the most common option. They clump well and make daily cleaning easier, but they can be heavy, dusty, and environmentally demanding.

Plant-based cat litters, such as wood-, paper-, and corn-based options, have become increasingly popular thanks to their light weight and eco-friendly properties. They are often biodegradable, lower in dust, and gentle on a cat’s paws, making them well suited for kittens and sensitive cats.

Silica-based litters are highly effective at controlling odors and may require less frequent changing, but not all cats like their harder texture or the feeling under their paws.

There are also non-clumping litters, which require the entire litter box to be changed more frequently. Over time, this can increase both workload and costs.

How to choose the best cat litter for your cat

A cat’s personal preference is often the most important factor. Most cats prefer a fine-grained, soft, and dust-free litter that feels natural under their paws and does not contain strong fragrances. While scented litters may seem fresh to humans, a cat’s sensitive sense of smell usually does not appreciate them.

From the owner’s perspective, ease of cleaning, odor control, and practicality are key considerations. Clumping litter simplifies daily maintenance, as waste can be removed easily and the litter box stays cleaner for longer. More and more cat owners also value sustainability and choose plant-based, biodegradable options.

If the ideal litter has not yet been found, trying different types side by side can help. In some households, offering two different litter types in separate boxes works well and allows the cat to choose its preference.

A natural choice: CUNIPIC Naturlitter cat litters

The CUNIPIC Naturlitter range offers natural, cat-friendly options for different needs. The products are designed to support both feline wellbeing and the smooth flow of everyday life for the owner.

CUNIPIC Naturlitter clumping cat litter is made from 100% natural pine and spruce fibers. It forms firm clumps quickly upon contact with moisture, making cleaning easier and keeping the litter box fresher for longer. The litter binds odors naturally without added chemicals, is lightweight to handle, and dust-free – an excellent choice for long-haired cats as well.

CUNIPIC Naturlitter paper bedding is made from recycled newspaper. It is fully biodegradable, extremely low in dust, and a gentle option for cats with sensitive paws or respiratory systems. The paper bedding also works well for other small pets.

How to switch cat litter in a cat-friendly way

Cats are creatures of habit, and sudden changes in the litter box can cause stress or litter box avoidance. For this reason, switching to a new litter should always be done gradually.

Start by mixing the new litter with the old one. During the first few days, the new litter can make up about a quarter of the total amount. Gradually increase the proportion of the new litter over several days or even a week, until the box contains only the new litter.

If you have more than one litter box, you can introduce the new litter in just one box at first and observe how your cat reacts. This allows the cat to choose which option feels more comfortable.

It is also important to keep everything else the same: the location of the litter box, the box itself, and the familiar cleaning routine all help your cat accept the change more easily.

Explore the CUNIPIC Naturlitter cat litters and find the option that best suits your cat in Finnero’s selection.

Cats are a unique species whose nutritional needs have evolved over millions of years. By understanding the origins of the domestic cat and the composition of its natural diet, we can build a feeding plan that supports its health, well-being, and longevity. With ERA foods, this can be done surprisingly easily — as long as we know how to combine different food types correctly.

The Origin of the Cat and Its Natural Diet

Our domestic cat (Felis catus) descends from the African wildcat (Felis lybica), which still lives in the wild in the arid and semi-arid regions of North Africa and the Middle East. Based on genetics and behavior, the domestic cat is still biologically the same animal as its ancestor: a small, solitary predator and obligate carnivore.

Wildcats hunt primarily rodents such as mice and voles. This means that the domestic cat’s body is adapted to an animal-based, low-carbohydrate, moisture-rich diet consisting of prey animals.

In the dry regions of Africa, access to water is limited. Over time, cats have evolved to conserve water very efficiently: they produce highly concentrated urine and obtain most of their required moisture from prey — for example, mice, which are 60–70% water.

This adaptation can still be seen in modern cats: many drink only small amounts of water, even when it is freely available. This is not a “flaw" but a natural inheritance from their desert ancestors.

At home, however, things are different. If the diet consists mainly of dry food, total water intake may not be sufficient. Over time, this can put stress on the urinary tract and kidneys. That’s why the moisture content of the diet is just as important as the quality of the nutrients.

When a cat’s diet is based on adequate animal protein and proper moisture levels, it supports the body’s natural function — just like its ancestors in the desert.

Composition of a Natural Prey Animal (e.g., a mouse)

• Moisture: 60–70%
• Protein: 18–22% as fed (approx. 55–65% on a dry matter basis)
• Fat: 8–12% as fed (approx. 23–35% on a dry matter basis)
• Carbohydrates: < 5%
• Calcium-to-phosphorus ratio: approx. 1.1:1
• High in taurine and essential micronutrients

Nature has already provided the blueprint — the only challenge is how to replicate that nutritional profile at home, without feeding actual mice.

ERA Foods as the Foundation of a Natural Diet

ERA products offer high-quality, grain-free options for feline nutrition. They contain plenty of animal-based protein and essential nutrients such as taurine and omega fatty acids.

Dry food alone does not match the moisture content or macronutrient profile of prey, which is why combining dry and wet food is key.
Here are a few examples:

ERA Salmon & Duck – Dry Food

• Estimated animal-based protein: 50–70% of total protein*
• Crude protein: 33%
• Crude fat: 16%
• Carbohydrates: approx. 30%
• Moisture: 10%
• Taurine: 2500 mg/kg added

*The share of animal protein is an estimate based on the ingredients and their protein content. Most of the protein of ERA Salmon  Duck dryfood comes from animal sources (chicken, duck, salmon), with only a small share from plants (peas, chickpeas, sweet potato).

ERA Sybarite Tuna & ERA Sybarite Shrimp – Wet Food examples

• Estimated animal-based protein: 90–95% of total protein
• Crude protein: approx. 8%
• Crude fat: 4%
• Carbohydrates: 3–4%
• Moisture: 82%
• Meat content: 85% (chicken, liver, fish/shrimp)

In wet foods, most protein is of animal origin. The small plant-based portion comes mainly from minor ingredients (e.g., carrot, pea flour) and does not significantly affect the protein source.

When ERA dry food is combined with ERA wet food in the right ratio, the overall nutritional profile comes much closer to the composition of natural prey.
Dry food provides nutrient density and protein, while wet food provides moisture and a higher proportion of animal protein. Together, they create a balanced and easy-to-implement feeding model.

Moisture – A Key Element in Feline Nutrition

Many cats naturally drink little water — a legacy from their desert-dwelling ancestors. At home, especially with a dry food–heavy diet, this can lead to insufficient hydration, putting stress on the urinary tract and kidneys. Adequate moisture in the diet is therefore a vital part of maintaining feline health.

• Cats that drink well: can get part of their hydration from drinking, so the dry-to-wet food ratio can be more balanced.
• Cats that drink poorly: need more moisture directly from their food to prevent urine from becoming too concentrated and to support kidney health.

That’s why we’ve created two feeding models — one for good drinkers and another for cats that don’t drink enough.
This way, the feeding model can closely mimic natural nutrition and support the cat’s physiology.

Option 1 – Cats That Drink Well

This model is suitable for cats that actively drink from their water bowl.

Feeding recommendation:

• 50% ERA dry food
• 50% ERA wet food
• Fresh water always freely available

Result:

• Estimated food moisture: 45–50% — actual total moisture may be even higher if the cat drinks well, potentially reaching the ideal 60% or more
• Good protein level, moderate carbohydrates
• Suitable for most healthy adult cats

Option 2 – Cats That Drink Poorly

This feeding model suits cats that naturally drink very little. It’s also particularly important for cats prone to urinary tract problems — such as urinary crystals, stones, or infections. Adequate moisture helps dilute urine and reduce the risk of urinary issues, making this model ideal for many adult and senior cats.

Note: ERA foods are not veterinary diets. If your cat has a diagnosed urinary condition or other illness, consult your veterinarian for the right diet or medical food. The feeding model described here is preventive and supportive, not a replacement for prescribed treatment.

Feeding recommendation:

• 30% ERA dry food
• 70% ERA wet food
• Add a small amount of water to the wet food if needed
• Fresh water always freely available

Result:

• Moisture content rises to around 60%, close to that of natural prey. Any additional water the cat drinks further increases total hydration.
• Carbohydrate content is lower compared to a dry food–heavy diet, supporting a metabolism adapted to low carbs.
• Fewer carbs mean less metabolic stress and better energy balance — especially for less active or overweight cats.
• Excellent for cats in the risk group for urinary and kidney issues.

ERA Feeding Models vs. Natural Prey

Note: The moisture percentage below refers to moisture from food only. If the cat drinks water, total moisture intake can be much higher.

Why This Matters

• Adequate hydration supports kidney and urinary tract health.
• Higher animal protein supports muscle maintenance and metabolism.
• Lower carbohydrates reduce the risk of weight gain and metabolic disease.
• ERA foods are fortified with taurine to ensure sufficient intake of essential nutrients.

Tips for Maintaining Your Cat’s Hydration

Wet Food

• Offer wet food in several small portions throughout the day. This matches the cat’s natural eating pattern and maintains steady moisture intake.
• Add a small amount of warm water to the wet food to further increase moisture.
• If your cat is picky, add the water gradually — many won’t even notice.
• Always serve fresh food.

Dry Food

• Add warm (not hot) water to the dry food and let it soak for a few minutes before serving.
• Start with about 1 part water to 2 parts kibble and adjust as needed.
• Soaked food often smells more appetizing and is easier to chew.
• Always serve soaked food fresh.

Encourage Drinking

• Even if your cat already drinks well, encouraging additional water intake can still support overall hydration and urinary tract health
• Provide fresh water at all times — ideally in several spots.
• Try a cat water fountain: many cats prefer moving water to still.
• Replace the water regularly and keep bowls clean.
• Some cats prefer shallow, wide bowls so their whiskers don’t touch the edges.
• Monitor urination and drinking behavior — a noticeable decrease can signal a health problem and should be checked by a vet.

Practical Feeding Tips

• Feed your cat 2–5 times per day, depending on age and activity level.
• Always serve wet food or soaked dry food fresh.
• Observe your cat’s drinking habits and adjust the feeding model accordingly.
• Make sure your cat always has access to fresh water.

With ERA foods, you can build a diet that closely mimics natural nutrition and supports your cat’s well-being in the best possible way.
Choose the feeding model based on your cat’s drinking habits — this brings you closer to the moisture and nutritional profile of a prey-based diet in an easy and safe way.

Natural model — practical implementation.

Discover ERA cat food HERE ›

A kitten grows and develops at an exceptional pace. During the first months of life, the skeletal system, muscles, nervous system, and immune defenses are formed – which is why nutrition plays a crucial role in the kitten’s lifelong health. Feeding a kitten is not just about providing energy, but about supporting the body and metabolism in the right way.

Cats are biologically obligate carnivores, and this is true from kittenhood onward. Their digestive system is adapted to animal-based protein, high moisture content, and a low level of carbohydrates. When this biological foundation is understood, building a suitable diet becomes surprisingly straightforward.

A natural model for feeding kittens

The domestic cat descends from the African wildcat, which inhabits dry and hot regions. In nature, kittens first rely on their mother’s milk and gradually transition to prey animals. The composition of these prey animals, such as mice, remains a useful reference point for modern feline nutrition.

Natural prey contains a high amount of water, high-quality animal protein and fat, and only very small amounts of carbohydrates. The feline body has evolved to obtain most of its required fluids from food rather than drinking. This trait is still evident in domestic cats – and especially in kittens, which often drink very little water.

For this reason, the moisture content of the diet plays a central role in a kitten’s overall wellbeing.

ERA foods as the foundation of kitten nutrition

The ERA Kitten range is designed to meet the needs of a growing cat. It combines a high proportion of animal-based protein, an appropriate energy level, and essential nutrients such as taurine and omega fatty acids that are vital for cats.

ERA Kitten Chicken & Turkey dry food provides a nutrient-dense and balanced foundation for a kitten’s diet. It contains abundant animal protein and fat to support muscle and bone development, as well as the high energy demands of a growing kitten. Dry food also offers a convenient way to ensure daily intake of vitamins and minerals.

ERA Sybarite Kitten wet foods, in turn, bring something that dry food alone cannot provide: natural moisture and an exceptionally high proportion of animal protein. The soft texture and strong aroma of wet food also make it an appealing option for kittens that are just learning to eat solid food.

Why combining dry and wet food matters

Dry food alone does not match the moisture content of natural prey. For a growing kitten, this is particularly important, as the kidneys and urinary tract are still developing. Adequate fluid intake helps keep urine more diluted and supports normal bodily function from an early stage.

When dry and wet food are combined, the nutritional profile of the diet more closely resembles the natural model. Dry food contributes energy and building blocks for growth, while wet food provides moisture and a higher proportion of animal-based protein. Together, they form a balanced and easy-to-follow feeding approach.

Why ERA kitten foods are grain-free

ERA kitten foods are completely grain-free, not as a marketing claim but as a conscious decision based on feline biology.

Cats are obligate carnivores. Their digestive system is designed to process animal protein and fat, not large amounts of carbohydrates. Grains such as wheat, corn, and rice are not part of a cat’s natural diet, and their bodies are not particularly efficient at utilizing them.

In many cat foods, grains are included primarily for technical reasons: they are an inexpensive energy source and help with kibble formation. Nutritionally, however, their value to cats is limited – especially during growth, when food should support muscle, bone, and nervous system development.

In ERA foods, grains are excluded so that dietary energy can be built around animal-based ingredients. This means a greater proportion of protein comes from meat rather than plant sources, while the overall carbohydrate level remains moderate and better aligned with the cat’s natural metabolism.

For many kittens, grain-free food is also gentler on the digestive system. A developing gut can be sensitive, and a simpler composition focused on animal-based nutrition supports normal digestion and good nutrient absorption.

It is important to note that grain-free alone does not make a food good or bad. What matters is the whole picture: ingredient quality, the amount of animal protein, fatty acid balance, and moisture content. In ERA kitten foods, these elements are designed to support a cat’s natural nutritional needs without unnecessary fillers.

A suitable feeding approach for kittens

For most kittens, a wet-food–focused diet is the best option. In practice, this means that the majority of daily intake comes from ERA Sybarite Kitten wet food, with ERA Kitten dry food used to complement the diet.

If a kitten drinks water exceptionally well, dry and wet food can be offered in roughly equal amounts. In most cases, however, a higher proportion of wet food better supports hydration and digestion. If desired, a small amount of water can be added to wet food to further increase total moisture without compromising palatability.

Practical tips for everyday feeding

Kittens naturally prefer several small meals throughout the day. Food should ideally be offered three to five times daily and always served fresh. Wet food should not be left in the bowl for long periods, and dry food should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

A kitten’s growth, weight, and general energy level should be monitored regularly. A healthy kitten is active, playful, and interested in food. Fresh drinking water should always be available, even though most fluid intake may come from food.

Summary

The most important principle in feeding a kitten is to follow the natural model as closely as possible. When the diet provides ample animal-based protein, sufficient fat for growth, and adequate moisture, the kitten’s body has the best conditions to develop into a healthy and strong adult cat.

ERA Kitten dry food and ERA Sybarite Kitten wet food together offer an easy and safe way to implement a natural, biologically appropriate feeding approach – without complicated calculations.

A good start lasts a lifetime.

• Explore ERA kitten foods here →

Cats are endlessly curious and adventurous creatures, so outdoor activities are an excellent way to provide your cat with ample stimulation and mental exercise. Outdoor adventures enrich both the pet's and the owner's life, as long as they are done safely and with the cat's well-being in mind.

A cat enjoys the outdoors in many ways 

While you can provide plenty of activities indoors, outdoor time is not strictly necessary for a cat. However, a cat enjoys the outdoors because it can explore the environment, smell interesting scents, and observe its surroundings. It follows birds, butterflies, and other small animals, just like its ancestors and the wide family of felines. Different surfaces, such as grass, sand, and trees, also offer intriguing sensory experiences and a change from the indoor environment.

Outdoor activities can also reduce a cat's stress and thereby promote its mental well-being. For physical health, outdoor activities are equally important—after all, exercise is beneficial for everyone. Additionally, outdoor moments can deepen the bond between the cat and its owner, as any time spent together enhances mutual trust and affection.

Harnesses - the safest way to enjoy the outdoors

Even though outdoor activities are beneficial in many ways, it is crucial to ensure the cat's safety. A cat wandering freely alone is at risk of being hit by a car, encountering predators, or getting injured in many other ways. Cats also pose a significant threat to birds and other small wildlife. Particularly during breeding and nesting seasons, a cat’s natural hunting instinct can be devastating to wildlife.

The safest way to enjoy the outdoors with a cat is to use a harness or build an enclosure where the cat cannot wander off on its own.

How to acclimate your cat to a harness and the outdoors

1. Choose the right harness

The first step is to choose a suitable harness for your cat. The harness should be comfortable, sturdy, and properly fitted to your cat. It’s important to ensure the harness is neither too tight nor too loose. A well-fitting harness prevents the cat from escaping but does not restrict its movements.

2. Acclimate to the harness indoors

Start by acclimating your cat to the harness indoors, where it feels safe. Show the harness to your cat and let it sniff and explore it. You can give your cat treats near the harness so it associates the harness with positive experiences. Once the cat is familiar with the harness, try putting it on gently and calmly, so the cat doesn’t get scared. Initially, keep the harness on for only short periods and reward the cat with treats or play.

Repeat putting on the harness daily, gradually increasing the time the cat spends wearing it. This way, the cat will get used to the harness and learn that it’s not a threat.

3. Acclimate to the leash

When the cat is comfortable in the harness, you can attach a lightweight leash. Let the cat walk around with the leash indoors. Allow it to explore and move freely, but keep the leash loose so the cat doesn’t feel restricted. Gradually extend the walking time with the leash and practice gentle guiding. Let the cat determine the direction and pace to ensure it feels secure.

4. First outdoor experiences

Once the cat is fully accustomed to the harness and leash indoors, you can move to the outdoors. Choose a calm and safe place for the first outdoor experiences, such as your yard or a quiet park area. Avoid noisy and busy places that might frighten the cat. Keep the first outdoor sessions short, only a few minutes long. Allow the cat to explore the environment at its own pace and ensure it always has the option to return inside if it feels uncomfortable. Continue to reward the cat with treats and praise to associate outdoor time with positive experiences.

5. Lengthening outdoor sessions

When the cat is comfortable being outside for short periods, you can gradually lengthen the outdoor sessions and explore new places. Always keep an eye on the cat and its reactions. If the cat appears scared or anxious, return to a safer environment and shorten the outdoor time. Continue regular outdoor sessions so the cat remains accustomed to being outside and wearing the harness. This also helps to establish a routine, so the cat knows what to expect.

Remember, a cat’s personality matters. Not all cats may enjoy the outdoors equally. Some may be timid or fearful in new environments, so give your cat time to get used to the outdoors at its own pace.

FINNERO harnesses for cats

In the pictures of this blog, Viivi the cat is wearing FINNERO LIGHT and FINNERO HALI harnesses, which are great for cats. Check out our harnesses:

• FINNERO LIGHT
• FINNERO HALI

Enjoy your outdoor adventures!