Are you a proud cat owner? If you are, then you already know that your cat is a precious companion. A cat requires lots of care and love. Thankfully, a bit of knowledge will help you succeed. This article describes how you can become a great owner.
Cats are curious by nature, which can end up getting them into trouble. If your cat gets caught on something wearing a traditional collar they could end up hurting their neck trying to break free. A breakaway style collar will literally “break away” if pulled too tight. This can save all “nine” of your cat’s lives.
When your female cat is old enough, it’s vital to get her spayed. You may believe that this is unnecessary if your cat stays inside all the time; however, cats almost always find a way to get outside, especially when they are in heat. When this occurs, your cat could get pregnant. If your cat has been spayed, however, you won’t have to worry about this happening.
Towel Rolls
Spray electrical cords with some bitter apple to prevent cats from getting electrocuted. If your cat plays with cords, put them up and out of the way, or you can hide them in old paper towel rolls. Use some paper towel rolls to tuck loose cords. Cats are drawn to wires and cords, so you should keep them out of sight and out of mind if they are not being used.
Prevent crystals from forming in the urine of male cats with the right diet. It is painful for your cat to pass these crystals and the cost to have this treated by a vet is high. Your cat’s food should be low in magnesium. Always read labels. Avoid fish products.
Cats and small children may not always mix. Guide your kids in handling a feline. Teach them what are appropriate activities and how to gently touch it. Keep in mind that a cat’s bones are much more fragile than a dog’s.
Don’t let your cat outside. Cats come to harm outside every day. There is a chance your cat can contract fleas or perhaps something much worse. Your cat may be targeted by another animal, or get injured by a vehicle or another person. If your cat must be an outdoor cat, limit it to your own backyard.
It’s important to let your cat see where you place the litter box, but it’s not always a good idea to force your cat to learn how to use it. They will do it on their own and don’t need to be taught. Contrary to what most people believe, it’s actually incorrect to rub a cat’s paw in the litter.
Use a brush on your cat regularly. This will help spread the natural oils within their fur while stimulating their skin’s blood flow. It can also reduce the amount of loose hair they have. Avoid the choking that can be a result of hairballs which slowly build up as your cat grooms himself.
Expect it to take several weeks for your current cat to accept a new cat in the home. They will probably hide from each other, hiss or even attack each other. If you give them enough time though, chances are good they will befriend each other and enjoy the extra company.
If your cat begins defecating or urinating too frequently, it’s time to see the vet. It could be an indication of a serious health problem. A quick course of antibiotics can head off dangerous complications if you get your cat diagnosed and treated early enough.
Play is something that all cats need to do. All mammals love to play. Your old cat will not play as much but will still appreciate the excitement. Have as much fun time with your cat as possible.
Litter Box
Your kitty’s litter box should be strategically placed. Your first instinct may be to hide it away out of sight and out of smelling range. The thing to remember is that your cat must have easy access to the box. Cats can be finicky; that’s why you should give them space for their litter box that is familiar and does not put them off. Put a rug under it for cleanliness, too.
Outfit your cat with a tag and collar containing your address, phone number, and name. Cats who stay indoors could still get out. If that happens, you want to be sure that there is a way for them to make it back home.
There are some thing that you eat that may not be good for your cat. Some of these include onions, grapes, garlic and green tomatoes. Even a little taste of these foods can make your cat seriously sick. Milk is something that can hurt your cat’s stomach, so beware of that too.
If your cat has frequent hairballs, and extra brushing hasn’t helped, here are some other tips that may help. One mixed teaspoon of pumpkin mixed into your cat’s food should help. You can also mix one teaspoon of tuna water in with the pumpkin. Some cat foods include hairball fighting elements, such as fiber, that may be useful.
Avoid overfeeding your cat because this can cause many health issues. Overeating can cause obesity in your cat, which can cause serious illness, similar to people. Be careful to feed your cat the proper portion amount, and also make sure that his food is packed with vital vitamins and nutrients.
Cats can contract many illnesses that you do. Since cats are like family, it’s easy to tell when they’re sick. Because a cat can go downhill rather quickly, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. A seemingly minor illness might really be something far more serious.
Your beloved cat is someone that you wish to take proper care of. This article gives you the techniques necessary to do so. Use the tips in this piece to keep your cat happy and in good health. If you love your cat, you will receive much love back.