If you could save the life of an animal, would you? There are plenty of cats who need a home. To save a life, consider adopting one of these lovely animals and giving it a loving home. This article will teach you how to care for that new cat once you bring him home.
A heated tile for underneath your cat’s bed can provide real comfort. Allow a terra cotta tile to heat in an oven for 15 minutes at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Wrap the tile in a towel and then put it under the bed. If possible, re-heat several times throughout the night.
If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. Even though your cat stays indoors all the time, there might be that one time she slips through the door when she goes into heat, which results in a litter of unexpected kittens. If you want to prevent this, spay your cat.
Spray bitter apple on electrical cords. Cords should be covered, especially if your cat tends to chew on them. You can do this by bundling them and tucking them in the cardboard rolls that are used for paper towels. Put away electronics that have tempting, thin cords when you’re not using them.
Keep your cat amused. Cats need stimulation. This is sadly overlooked by some cat owners. Bored cats can suffer from depression, extreme compulsive disorders, and other harmful issues that can negatively impact their overall health and well-being. Give them time and space where they can exercise and toys they can play with. If your cats are kept inside, set up a carpet lined scratching pad or post. There are many climbing structures that can be purchased or made for cats who enjoy heights.
Cats love to be clean. When your cat has long hair, this can cause hairballs. One way to alleviate this condition in your cat is by feeding him special food. Some cat food brands have formulations to prevent or reduce hairballs, which will make life easier for your cat and you.
If you have to travel with a cat you should remember their ears. They don’t want to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. Turn down the music and let the cat rest.
Cats and small children may not always mix. Spend time instructing your children on cat care. Demonstrate how the cat should be petted and handled and encourage your children to be very gentle. Cats’ bones are more fragile than those of dogs, so they need gentler treatment.
Cats like to be up high. For very happy cats, give them a safe place where they can look around at their surroundings. If you don’t wish to have a big cat tree inside your house, try a sturdy shelf made of breakables. The cat will especially enjoy it if you put a blanket on top.
Litter Box
You should not train your cat to use a litter box. They will do it on their own and don’t need to be taught. Many people think rubbing a cat’s paws in litter will teach them to use the litter box, but it might actually traumatize them.
Although your cat’s old scratching post may look very worn out, you shouldn’t throw it away. The cats loves it the most in this condition. Cats may well try scratching something else entirely (like your furniture!) if you replace their beloved toy with something unfamiliar.
Keep a breakaway collar and tag on your cat. Even if your cat is a house cat, this is still a good idea. Cats are curious creatures, and you never know when they might wander off to explore. The identification tags should contain your home phone number and the number for your veterinarian. Veterinary information is essential if your cat needs medication.
If your cat uses the bathroom more than normal, or if they suddenly stop using the litter box, think about taking them to the veterinarian. Sometimes, abnormal urination habits indicate an infection of the urinary tract. A course of antibiotics often does the trick.
Your cat needs good play time. Playing is a very common activity shared by most animals. While older cats aren’t near as energetic, they still enjoy playing often. Make an effort to have playtime with your cat regularly.
A long-haired cat comes with a great deal of extra care. That lovely, silky coat won’t look nearly as good all over your floors as it does on the cat. Unless you are prepared to do more cleaning, don’t buy a long haired cat. Long haired cats often have hairball problems.
Use a cat collar that gives name, address, and phone number info. Even if you have a house cat, there is a chance that he or she may get out. If that happens, you want to be sure that there is a way for them to make it back home.
Certain foods may be fine for you to eat daily, but not for your cat. Garlic and onions are popular examples. Ingesting these foods can end up making your cat really sick or worse. In addition, milk can also upset your cat’s stomach.
Cats are really good at smelling, and that means they’re good at figuring out if something in their environment has changed. This can be troublesome sometimes if you’re trying to feed the cat new food or give it new toys. Your cat will probably not like these items immediately; therefore, be patient. Eventually the cat will get used to the smell and things will go back to normal.
You should be proud to take care of your kitty. You’re making a conscious decision to love an animal and provide it with the care that it needs to survive. The bonds that you form with your cat will last a lifetime. Take care of him and he will do the same for you.
