Cats are very different from other pets. They are intelligent and independent, while being loving. Properly caring for cats, however, is not easy. Read on to find out how to properly care for your cat.
Regular visits to the vet will preserve your cat’s health. They should go at least once yearly for a check-up, and more often if they need any shots. Cats need to see a vet right away if they have health issues, injuries or conditions that require immediate attention.
Make sure your cat has a collar and tag if outside. Cats can travel far, and a tag will help you find the cat easier if they get lost. The tag should have at least the pet’s name and the number where you can be reached.
Cats are partially nocturnal. They are often active at nighttime. One way to deal with a kitten’s playful activity at night is just to shut your door. Your cat will not bother you in the middle of the night if this area is off limit.
When your cat is riding with you in your car, ensure you keep their ears in mind. They don’t want to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. Spare your cat’s sensitive hearing by keeping the volume down at all times.
When you buy a small kitty for your children, set the boundaries ahead of time. Tell your kids which rooms the cat is allowed in. If your cat is going to be one that stays inside, let the kids know that it’s not allowed outside. Knowing the rules ahead will help your child understand.
Do your best to determine why your cat is meowing. If you live with a cat for any amount of time, you will soon start to understand what your cat wants when she meows. She may be hungry, or she may want you to let her outside. Look for the cues and you’ll be much more in tune with your pet.
You should think again before allowing your cat to go outside. Going outdoors isn’t very safe for a domesticated cat. There is a chance your cat can contract fleas or perhaps something much worse. Cats can be harmed by cars, people and other animals. If your cat has to be outside, make sure it is only in a small area near the house.
Do you have both a cat and dog? Dogs won’t hesitate to eat food from your cat’s bowl. Thus, you must keep cat food out of the dog’s reach. The added benefit is that you will prevent fights over the other animals food and water when one of them runs out.
Never make the mistake of leaving a kitten in a room alone with small children. Children under 5 years of age should not be alone with the pet. They’re not really mature enough to know how dangerous a kitten can be. As children get older, decide when they show the maturity to handle a small pet.
Cats love being up high. A happy cat is one that has a safe living environment. You should install a cat tree or allow your cat to climb on some shelves. For an extra treat, place a blanket or small bed up there too.
You may find it is helpful to talk to others about challenges you have with your cat. You can often get great advice from friends and family. You can find several cat forums online where you can ask questions, or you can choose to simply call your vet for advice too.
Don’t try to show your feline how to go in the litter box. Cats instinctively understand what to do and teaching is not required. A lot of people think that they can take their cat and try to rub their cat’s paws on the litter, but this may just traumatize the cat.
Make sure that you brush your cat’s coat often. This will reduce the amount of bacteria on the fur. In addition, it helps to reduce loose hair. This will help to eliminate hairballs, which build in your cat’s stomach and prevents it from grooming itself.
Litter Box
Pay attention if you cat does not use the litter box. Abandoning proper litter box habits is often a warning sign of serious health problems in cats. A UTI or kidney infection may be the reason for its bathroom problems. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.
Give the cat a collar with your contact information. Even a cat you plan to keep indoors can sometimes get out or get lost. Don’t take any chances; make sure your pet has the proper identification so he is returned to you.
Your food isn’t necessarily good for your cat. Examples include garlic, grapes, green tomatoes and onions. If your cat eats these foods, he may become sick or even die. In addition, milk can also upset your cat’s stomach.
You should never let your cat use meds that were designed for people. If your cat is suffering from a medical condition, be sure and take them to a vet to get the proper medication. Providing your cat with a human medication can seriously harm them, and it just might kill them.
A cat is a great pet for your family, but you need to learn how to take good care of your pet. Study these tips carefully. Put everything you’ve learned to use to keep your cat happy and healthy.