Cats are magical critters. They are intelligent and independent, while being loving. But, cat care is not always simple. Continue reading to learn some excellent cat care tips so that you can raise a happy and healthy cat.
If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters are filled with beautiful cats, and the fee for adoption will basically cover the needed vet care. By adopting a cat from your local shelter, you will preserve a life and will do your part in controlling the cat population.
Cats enjoy getting into small spaces. Cats that wear collars are at risk should they become stuck somewhere cramped. A collar that will breakaway is the best idea for safety. This could save your cat’s life if the collar gets caught in some branches.
Think about getting a microchip for your feline friend. You never know when your cat could get away from you. Cats can get out of a collar or, worse, have that collar choke them to death. Microchips are extremely small, but they can hold all the same information as an identification tag. Many vets and shelters have scanners that can read these chips and since they lie under their skin, they won’t get lost.
Cats are generally nocturnal. This means nighttime is an active time for your cat. Try closing the door if your cats are keeping you awake at night. Your cat will not bother you in the middle of the night if this area is off limit.
If you are traveling with a cat in tow, be aware of the noises in your car. Although you might enjoy jamming to your music, understand that cats prefer peace and quiet. Spare your cat’s sensitive hearing by keeping the volume down at all times.
Why is your cat meowing? By paying attention, you should eventually learn why your cat is meowing. The meows may indicate hunger, happiness, or a desire to go exploring. Watch their cues to learn more about them.
Be careful if you leave a kitten with a young child. Particularly if the children are younger than five, they need supervision. Little children do not have the necessary skills yet to handle a pet by themselves. As a kid ages, they can show maturity with handling a little pet.
You should brush your cat on a regular basis. This helps to stimulate blood flow and circulation, and it will also help to evenly distribute the natural oil your cat’s fur has. It is also a good way to reduce shedding. Avoid the choking that can be a result of hairballs which slowly build up as your cat grooms himself.
To help avoid a finicky cat, feed your cat different brands of cat food. If you feed your cat the same food all the time, your cat will likely be uninterested any any other brand or flavor.
Consider getting your cat a fountain to drink from. Cats like running water in the wild, as well as in the home. A constant stream of water will entice them to stay hydrated. In fact, the running water in a sink garnishes more attention from a cat than their water bowl usually does. A fountain will allow your cat to have the happiness of drinking from running water.
Pay attention if your cat suddenly stops using the litter box properly. It may be the sign of an underlying medical issue. It could be an indication of a serious health problem. Inexpensive antibiotics generally clear this right up.
Litter Box
Move the litter box if your cat won’t use it. A cat will be more inclined to use the litter box if it is placed in a quiet and safe area in your home. For example, your basement, laundry room or other room away from household activity should suffice.
If your cat is prone to hairballs and additional brushing has no effect, you may be able to resolve the problem in other ways. Use pumpkin in your cat’s food to help with digestion. Add in an extra spoonful of water if the mixture is too thick. Some cat foods include hairball fighting elements, such as fiber, that may be useful.
Make dry food the foundation of your cat’s diet. When cats are kittens they need wet food because their teeth are so small. Once they grow up though, dry, harder food will strengthen their teeth and keep them clean. Dry food and wet food can also be mixed together for a really finicky cat.
You need to take the cat for particular thighs, and it can get costly. You can save yourself some money by ordering your cats medications online. Do a quick online search, and you will find several companies that offer delivery service of the medications to your home. This can be convenient and cheap if your cat has to take medications regularly like once a month.
The unique and intelligent cat makes a great pet if you educate yourself about how to care for it. Take the time to absorb the insights you have learned here. Put the tips into practice today, then watch your feline companions thrive and grow in a healthy way.