Unlike my adoring dogs that worship the ground I walk on and give me the feeling that they couldn't survive without me, I sometimes have the feeling that my cats could quite happily and confidently live without me, if only they had thumbs to get those pesky lids off the cat food!

While our cats may act a bit like little independent people, choosing to acknowledge us with their love and attention when it suits them, and while they are happy to vanish for hours or days on end, only to saunter back in the door when it suits them, totally oblivious to our attempts to hug and kiss them in our joy at their return (where's the food?), they do depend on us to provide them with quality food, fresh water, warm shelter, vet care and friendship.

So how do you maintain the special relationship you have with your prized moggy? Simply follow these top 10 tips to a rewarding relationship...

1) That's My Cat! - The majority of cats like to go off and explore and normally return back to their 'own place' in due time, however sometimes your cat may find himself a tad lost! For cat lovers, one of our biggest fears is having our cat go missing. Even if you have an 'inside' cat, it only takes one careless moment of a door being left open, and your furry friend is gone! Outfit your cat with a collar and ID tag that includes at least your phone number, however try and fit your name and address on as well. If you live in a rural or urban area and worried about your cat getting his collar caught in tree's, you can buy collars with a special break-away if the cat pulls back when he's caught.

2) Keep The Love Indoors! - There are many cats that are quite happy to live their life in the comfort and safety of your home or apartment, therefore, if you can, keep your cat safely confined at all times.

3) We Don't Like Sex Kittens! - By spaying or neutering your cat, not only are you helping to stop the horrible problem of cat overpopulation, your cat will be healthier.

4) Follow the Law! - If your local council has cat registration laws (such as in the USA), you must follow these laws to protect both your cat and your community.

5) What's Up Doc? - Take your cat to your vet for regular check-ups and follow your vaccination and worming programs.

6) Food For A King! - Ensure your cat receives a nutritionally balanced diet and has access to fresh water.

7) Down Kitty! - If you can train your cat to keep his scratching and jumping to his toys or scratching post and NOT your furniture and bench tops, you will have a happy household!

8) Grooming is Good! - Although most people don't think of grooming their cat, by grooming their coat with a soft brush you can help keep your moggy's coat healthy, soft and shiny. This is also useful if your cat has problems with hairballs, by removing as much of their loose hair with brush grooming, you reduce the intake of hair your cat ingests!

9) Go Fetch! - Ok, so your cat doesn't quite need the same level of exercise as your dog, but by playing with your cat on a regular basis will provide physical exercise and mental stimulation, another bonus is that this will strengthen the bond you share.

10) Love Your Cat! - Showing patience, love and loyalty to your cat is a must! It is important to remember that if your cat develops (or comes with) a behaviour problem, these can normally be solved. Don't give up on your kitty! If you are struggling with your cat's behaviour I strongly suggest you contact your veterinarian for advice.