Cats are terrific, but are quite particular. When it comes to cats, you have to be aware of many things in order to properly raise it. Continue reading to learn excellent tips on properly providing for your cat.
If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters all over the country are crowded with marvelous cats, and most provide veterinarian care with the adoption fee. Adopting your cat through a shelter means you are helping to control the cat population and saving a life at the same time.
You should be bringing your cat to their vet for a check-up regularly. Your cat should receive shots regularly to prevent health issues. Your cat will be more comfortable if you continue using the same vet. They will understand your cat and its issues better this way.
Cats enjoy finding small spaces to fit into. Collars can be a safety risk if your kitty gets stuck. Breakaway collars will “break” if they’re pulled too tight. This will allow your cat to live another day if it gets tangled up.
Don’t use dog products on your cats ever. If you try to use products meant for dogs, it can make your cat sick, or even kill him. One product in particular to pay close attention to is any remedy for fleas and ticks. Products used for flea prevention in dogs can be very harmful to your cat. In fact, your cat should be kept away from your dog for several hours after the dog has been treated for fleas.
Keep your cat amused. Cats need stimulation. Sometimes, cat owners don’t realize this. Bored cats can suffer from depression, extreme compulsive disorders, and other harmful issues that can negatively impact their overall health and well-being. Therefore, ensure your cat has enough space for exercising and playing. 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.
Make sure your kids know the rules before kitty comes home. Make sure your kids know where the cat can be. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. By making the rules well known to your children, your children will understand what is and is not allowed.
Be very careful about allowing children to be alone with a kitten. Children under five years old should always be supervised when interacting with a pet. A child of that age doesn’t realize when they are being too rough with a pet. Wait until your child gets older, and pay close attention to whether or not they’re mature enough to hold or handle a tiny pet.
If your cat relieves itself away from its litter box, do not spring into action with punishment. Usually, this sort of thing happens when the box isn’t being tended to properly. Punishment can make your cat fearful in your presence.
Though caring for a cat can seem like no big deal, there are actually a lot of things to consider, including veterinarian visits and giving them extra amounts of attention. Take what you have learned here and apply it to being a successful and happy pet owner. The best benefit is a mutually satisfactory experience for you and the cat.
