Cats have been with human companions for centuries. Cats have also inspired countless works of art, including songs, plays, and films. So, it’s easy to understand why cats think they rule the world. In this article, you’ll find some advice that will help you properly raise your cat.
If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. You can heat a terracotta tile in the oven at 200 degrees for about 15-20 minutes. You should wrap it with a towel and place it under the bed your cat uses. If possible, re-heat several times throughout the night.
Spray bitter apple on electrical cords to keep cats away from them. If your cat happens to be a champion cord-chewer, you’ll need to use cord covers to protect your cords. Tuck loose cords into old toilet paper or paper towel rolls. Electronic items with thin, tempting cords should always be put away when not in use.
Making sure your cat doesn’t jump on the counters is hard to do. Cats like to be up high, where they can watch everything going on. Provide your cat with a few high places it can uses. For example, give them a cat tower nearby.
Don’t let your cat get frequently bored. It is necessary for them to play and get exercise. Unfortunately, many owners do not realize this important part of ownership. Cats who get bored can actually become depressed or display other undesirable behaviors. Spend time playing with them, and go through a variety of toys to find ones they like and will play with while you’re busy, too. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.
Cats are usually more active during the night. They get very active at night. If your cats keep you up at night, kick them out of the bedroom. Your cat will not bother you in the middle of the night if this area is off limit.
Use quality food to prevent crystals from forming in a cat’s urine. Just like kidney stones, these crystals are painful and vet bills are pricey. Let your cat have food that doesn’t have a lot of magnesium in it. Be sure to read the ingredient label. Fish-based foods usually contain more magnesium than poultry-based foods.
Set boundaries for your children when it comes to having a cat as a pet. You can then teach your kids which areas your cat can go into. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. Setting the rules in advance will ensure your children understand.
Don’t let your cat go outside. This can compromise your cat’s safety. Your cat may pick up some fleas, or worse. Cats can be gravely injured or killed by eating poisonous plants, flowers or chemicals, hit by a car or even harmed by neighbors who are irritated with your cat on their property. If you need to let your cat out of the house, be sure it’s in a safe place.
Never make the mistake of leaving a kitten in a room alone with small children. Kids under five should not be left alone with a pet. You may not have noticed a problem when you see them together, but very kids do not really understand they can accidentally harm or kill a kitten. As your child matures, carefully consider whether a small pet is safe with them.
A collar and tags are a great way that your cat can be identified if it is found stray. This will be important even if you have an indoor cat. The lure of an open door or window is very attractive to your curious cat. It is a good idea to include your own phone number along with the name and contact number of your veterinarian. This precaution is especially important when your cat has an existing medical condition.
If you have a female cat that is in the process of giving birth, make sure you provide her a spacious area. The birth process can last up to four hours, which means you must exercise patience. Bring your cat to her vet immediately if six hours have passed without all the kittens coming out.
Some human foods you enjoy often are not good for your cat. In part, these include garlic, onions and grapes. Your cat can get sick after eating these foods. Milk could also lead to an upset stomach if the cat drinks it.
It is best to keep cats indoors, near you and treated as part of your household. Cats that stay inside have been shown to live much longer than the ones that are allowed to roam your neighborhood. Roaming around the house doesn’t cause as much risk as roaming the wild.
Your cat believes it is the supreme ruler of all the world. The best way to give your cat the love and care it needs is to follow these guidelines. Cats are great pets and can bring joy to your life if you follow these tips.