There are so many joys you can get from just having a cat. With great animals comes great responsibility, however, and you are obligated to take care of your pet. You need to know what you’re getting into. This article can help you see what they are. Read on and learn.
If you’re thinking of getting a cat for a pet, you should look to the local shelter. Sometimes, you may find the cat of your dreams at a shelter. Adopting a cat this way helps to save their life and cut down on unwanted animal births.
Good grooming is important for cats. Cats need to be combed or brushed regularly. This helps them keep their precious coat properly clean at all times. In addition, it helps decrease shedding, which results in less hairballs. Brushing your cat will keep your home cleaner, too.
If you own a female cat, you should have her spayed when she is old enough. This is true even if you think your cat is indoors only. One escape can lead to a lot of small kittens around! Spaying your cat is the best way to prevent this from happening.
If you get a cat for your kids, make sure to set clear boundaries in advance. Tell your kids which rooms the cat is allowed in. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. Establishing these boundaries ahead of time prevents any confusion.
Do you have both a dog and a cat? Keep in mind that the two animals have separate dietary needs, and dogs will try cat food if given the chance. Try locating your cat’s food in an area where the dog cannot go. The added benefit is that you will prevent fights over the other animals food and water when one of them runs out.
Let your cat get comfortable using a carrier. The same response to punishment that you would expect from a dog does not apply to a cat. Encouragement is a better way to get your cats to perform. Placing some of your cats favorite items in the carrier can really help. Soon that cat will walk into the carrier on its own. Transporting your cat inside the carrier will then become much easier.
Go pick yourself up one of those water fountains for cats. Cats like running water in the wild, as well as in the home. Cats seem to like a water stream better. Many cats prefer running water over their water dish. This is a more natural way for them to drink.
If your cat begins defecating or urinating too frequently, it’s time to see the vet. Many cats develop these behaviors in response to a health problem, such as urinary tract infections. Antibiotics will often do the trick if it is an infection.
Litter Box
Really consider where you place the litter box. It might be tempting to have it in a hidden area where you can’t see it or smell it. However, if you hide it from your pet he might not try very hard to find it when he needs to go to the bathroom. Your cat will use the litter box if it is placed in a quiet place and away from smells your cat does not enjoy. Put a rug under it for cleanliness, too.
As mentioned earlier, you benefit from having a cat. You definitely need to take care of the feline so that it lives a great and healthy life. Consider the information presented here to make the most of your relationship with your new kitty.