Cats are constant companions wherever humans choose to live, whether they’re kept as pets or left to fend for themselves in the streets. Adopting a new kitten is a great way to help keep this population of wild animals down and you will find that a cat is a great pet to have. Many businesses lose customers and money because of these cats.
Cats will try to get into many different crevices. If your cat is such a curious one, wearing a collar is a safety risk, as your feline might get stuck because of it while exploring. If your pet is wearing a breakaway collar, it’ll detach if it’s pulled too hard. This could help save your cat if it gets caught in a tight spot.
Make sure your cat has a collar and tag if outside. Cats can get lost, and they need a tag to be found. The tag should contain your phone number as well as your cat’s name.
Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If your kitty is doing this, one way to redirect his behavior is to purchase a scratching post or cat tower. Put cat nip on it to attract them to it. It might not happen overnight, but the problem should eventually stop.
A lot of cat owners have a hard time keeping their cats off the counter. Cats enjoy high places so they can see what is happening around them. To help prevent your cat from doing this, you can establish tall places specifically for your cat. One way to keep your cats from continuously jumping on the counter is to install a cat tower near the problem counter.
Cats spend a ton of time grooming themselves. If your kitty is a long-haired breed, the result of this might be hairballs. To help your cat out with this problem, try buying him special food. Some foods contain extra oils and nutrients, specifically designed to prevent or diminish hairball concerns.
If your cat is male, understand that he could develop crystals inside his urine, which can be very painful to him. Therefore, prevent this issue from occurring in the first place by feeding your cat the right type of food. Passing those crystals hurts and having this corrected by a vet is expensive. Let your cat have food that doesn’t have a lot of magnesium in it. Check the ingredients list on the label. Fish usually has more magnesium than poultry.
If your cat is traveling with you, remember their ears. You may be tempted to blast your favorite songs at top volume. Cats, on the other hand, would probably prefer that you didn’t. Therefore, keep your music or other sounds at an acceptable level.
While usually cats make great pets for kids, younger kids may be too rough with them. It is important to show your child how to approach and handle a cat. Teach them what are appropriate activities and how to gently touch it. Cats have weaker bones than dogs do, and must be treated accordingly.
Speak with other cat owners about any issues you may be having. Advice from other people can be very beneficial for you. Your vet is a great source of advice, or you can find forums on the Internet to connect with other cat owners.
Litter Box
If your cat dirties the space near his litter box, don’t punish them. Many times, this is caused by failure to properly clean or place the litter box. If your pet is punished, you won’t do anything but make it afraid of you.
You eat quality food, and if you want your cat to stick around a long time, they need quality food, too. Look over the ingredients in the food, and be sure there is some kind of a protein source in the food. Avoid foods like corn or other items without protein. Because cats are carnivores, their diet need only consist of a good source of protein.
Feeding your cat the proper canned food is ideal. Dry food may cost less, but canned food has more benefits. The water content is higher, and there is more protein and fat in the canned food. Older cats also find it easier to chew up. You should ask your vet for some recommendations if you are not sure what kind of food to get.
A collar and tags are a great way that your cat can be identified if it is found stray. This is even true for indoor cats. Cats are curious by nature, and an open window or door invites exploration. The tag your cat wears should display your number and your veterinarian’s information. Include your cat’s special diet or medical needs on his identification.
If your cat stops using the litter box suddenly, take note. Many feline health conditions can cause a cat to urinate and defecate in random places outside of their litter box. This is especially true if the cat has kidney or bladder problems. Consult with your veterinarian when your cat refuses to use its litter box.
You should have a better idea of how you can take good care of your cat after reading this article. You will find that a fun cat is a great addition to your family. Just remember that cats are still delicate animals in a way, and you should always handle them with some level of care. Perhaps you will fall in love with a feral cat.