Cats are wonderful pets, but it can be expensive to care for them. Between vet bills, cat food and litter and cat toys, you may need to reconsider if you can afford a cat. Here are a few ways that you can still keep your cat and save money while caring for them.
Local Shelter
If you plan on getting a cat for a pet, try looking into a local shelter. Many shelters have more cats than they can handle and the fees associated with adoption take care of vet visits. By adopting a cat from your local shelter, you will preserve a life and will do your part in controlling the cat population.
Have your cat see a vet frequently to keep good health. A yearly visit for a regular check-up is important, with more frequent visits for shots as required. Cats should go to a vet immediately if they have any conditions, health problems, or injuries that need to be tended to right away.
Spray bitter apple on electrical cords. If your cat plays with cords, put them up and out of the way, or you can hide them in old paper towel rolls. Loose cords can be bundled and tucked inside old paper towel rolls. Personal electronic devices should be stored when not needed to keep their cords out of reach.
Keeping cats from a counter really can be tough. Cats enjoy going into high places so that they can see what’s going on around the house. One way to deal with this issue could be to devote certain high spaces for your feline friend to sit in. Placing a cat tower near the kitchen will help the cats to not lay on the counter.
Think about putting a microchip in your pet. Even a house cat may end up lost outside, no matter how careful you are. Cats can get out of a collar or, worse, have that collar choke them to death. Microchips are as small as a rice grain and have all of your important contact information. The chip will never be lost because it is under the skin and it can easily be read by any shelter or vet.
Keep your cat active and entertained to avoid boredom. It is necessary for them to play and get exercise. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. Bored cats are more prone to depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as many other behavioral issues. Give them enough space to exercise in, with fun toys to keep them entertained. A scratching post is a valuable toy to put in your home.
Your cat needs love and attention. Think of all the friendship and comfort cats provide to us. Cats have a need to communicate with others to show they are part of the family. They should feel like a valued family member as well.
Avoid bladder crystals and stones by feeding high quality food. A cat passing the crystals can be very hurtful with an expensive vet bill to boot. Choose a cat food low in magnesium. Be sure to read the ingredient label. Poultry products are typically lower in magnesium than fish products.
Are you a cat and dog owner? Dogs will eat a cat’s food any time they’re given the chance. You should create a feeding space for the cat that is much too high for a dog to get to. In doing so, you prevent spats and spitting over competition for water.
If you wish to add another cat to your home, give it a couple weeks for your old cat and your new cat to grow accustomed to each other. Expect to see your cats avoid each other, hiss, or even confront one another. Sooner or later, they’ll tolerate and even begin to love each other.
Your cat needs good play time. Playing is a very common activity shared by most animals. Older cats may not have much energy, but they still like to play. Make sure you play with your cat at least once a day.
Pets are often expensive, and this is surely true of cats. Taking care of your cat can sometimes feel like looking after a child. You can reduce your expenses while still taking the best care for your kitten.
