Cats are curious creatures. They seem to be able to get by without you, but they tend to like to be around you at times too. It really can be confusing, but owning a loving cat is truly incredible. The following article has some great tips for caring for your special friend.
If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters have a lot of cats in them and you can get one adopted for a small fee. Adopting your cat through a shelter means you are helping to control the cat population and saving a life at the same time.
Cats like sneaking into small spaces. If they’ve got a collar on, this may put them in danger as it can get stuck. Collars designed to release when sufficient force is applied (“breakaway” collars) are a great idea. This will allow your cat to live another day if it gets tangled up.
Regular vet visits are very important for your cat’s health. Your cat should always go to the vet for a check up, especially if they need shots. Never hesitate to have your cat checked out if you think that something is wrong; remember that your cat can not tell you they are not feeling well.
Flea Products
Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. Products designed for dogs or other animals could cause a negative reaction from your cat. This happens a lot with flea products. Canine flea products can be lethal to a cat. Keep your cat away from your puppy after treating it with some flea products.
Make sure your cat has a collar if it goes outside. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost. Ensure that you at least put the name of your cat and your personal phone number on this tag.
The cat’s litter box should be placed in the right spot. Try to keep it away from areas of household traffic and away from your cat’s eating areas. In addition, you should ensure you place the litter box in a well-ventilated area to minimize the smell. Both you and your cat will reap its benefits.
Chances are, your feline spends many hours grooming himself. When the cat’s hair is longer, this could lead to hairballs. If your cat has this issue, try changing his food. Some cat food out there has a special formula in it that reduces hairballs. This benefits your pet and you.
Remember to take care of your cat’s ears if you travel with him. Although you might enjoy jamming to your music, understand that cats prefer peace and quiet. Try turning down your tunes or keeping it off to make your cat’s trip better.
Sometimes children get too excited when playing with a new cat and may mishandle them. Always train your child the proper way to handle a pet. Help them learn how to pick up a cat and care for it. The bones of a cat are weaker than a dogs, therefore, they should be handled with care.
Place a “tablecloth” under your cat’s food bowl. Cats will sometimes pluck food from the bowl and enjoy it straight off the ground. Sometimes this will make the area around the bowl messy, and you’ll have to clean it. To simplify your clean up duties, place a ready made placemat under the dish or purchase some inexpensive fabric and use it like a tablecloth.
You should think again before allowing your cat to go outside. It might not be safe for your cat to go outdoors. Your cat may pick up some fleas, or worse. Other animals, cars and people can hurt your cat. If letting your cat outdoors is important to you, let them out in a safe fenced area.
Speak to others about your cat problems. It’s possible that you could solve the problem on your own, but why deny help from others? You can also go on the Web and ask your question in a forum.
Help your cat get accustomed to the carrier. Introducing your cat to a carrier as a kitten can really help to make this easier. They are much better with encouragement. Leave your cat carrier open and put a few special toys inside. After some time, your cat will respond better to the carrier. Transporting your cat inside the carrier will then become much easier.
Cats are very interesting creatures and you could spend the rest of your life trying to figure them out. Use what you have learned here to ensure that your cat is healthy and happy in your home. Healthy and happy cats that are loved by owners are good friends to live with.