Summer around here means open windows, lazy stretches in sunbeams, and a lot of judgmental glares from my cat, who clearly thinks I should be doing less and petting more.

Her name is Cleo and like most cats, she rules the house. But come summer, she kicks it into full diva mode. She sprawls on cool tiles, purrrs at birds from the windowsill, and demands the kind of nourishment that matches her seasonal mood: light, real, flavorful, and packed with the good stuff. That’s why we’ve both fallen in love with Merrick cat food.

Cleo’s a fan of the taste (I mean, the purring speaks for itself), and I love that I can read the ingredient label without Googling. Real deboned meat always comes first. No mystery fillers. No weird additives. Just quality, protein-rich recipes made with love - and honestly, you can tell. Her coat has gotten shinier, her energy’s up, and her “zoomie hour” has become a twice-daily event.

Summer can be tough on cats, especially with heatwaves and fluctuating schedules in military housing. But having a consistent, nourishing food she actually loves takes one thing off my mental load.

I’ve even caught her snoozing next to the Merrick bag like it’s her personal bodyguard. Coincidence? I think not.

Whether we’re mid-PCS or just enjoying a calm stretch of days, Merrick helps keep Cleo feeling her best. And honestly, a happy cat = a peaceful home… most of the time.

Now if only they made a version that kept her off the countertops.