Do you own a pet, specifically, a cat? If yes, you know how precious these animals are. A cat like any pet really needs care and love. Fortunately, it is easy to provide this and more for your cat. Keep reading for some excellent cat care tips.
Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. Never let your cats play with drape cords, as they could seriously injure themselves. This may harm or kill them. To prevent this from happening, keep any drape cords pinned away from any eyes.
Take your cat to the vet regularly to make sure they remain in good health. They need a routine check-up every year, maybe more of important shots are necessary. If your cat is having a health issue or injury, they need to be seen by their vet right away.
A microchip for your cat is something that you should really consider. Even an indoor cat can get the urge to run out of a door or leap through a window. A collar with tags increases your chances of getting your cat back if it gets lost but it can also be a risk, for instance if it gets snagged in some branches. Microchips are very small, and you can note your name, address and phone number in there. They are impossible for your pet to lose, and most vets and shelters have equipment that can read these chips.
Your cat can take lots of time to groom themselves to what they consider “perfect.” Your cat’s long hair can cause hair balls. If you’ve got a cat with this issue, get it special types of food. There are foods that are made to reduce the frequency of hairballs. It’s a smart move for your cat and your sanity.
Male cats sometimes have crystals in their urine, but this can be prevented with the right cat food. If they have to pass the crystals it can cause the cat a lot of pain and paying a vet to help with this can cost you a lot of money. Your cat needs food low in magnesium. This means you should pay attention to labels on food. Products that contain fish are normally much higher in magnesium over ones containing poultry.
If you’re taking a trip with your cat, be sure to protect its ears. While you may like some good tunes, your cat is going to appreciate other things. Therefore, try lowering your music or turning it off in order for your cat to enjoy the trip more.
You should create a tablecloth for the cats in your home. Some cats prefer to remove their food from the dish and eat it off to the side. Sometimes, this results in food outside the bowl that you have to clean up. Something as simple as a place mat can help make cleanup easier.
Understand that leaving a small kitten together with small children can be dangerous to both. A child under five should not be left alone with a pet. They are just not mature enough to understand the danger they can pose for the kitten. As they grow, you will be able to decide when it is the right time for them to handle a cat or kitten without supervision.
Litter Box
Make sure that you do not instruct your cat on using the litter box. This skill is something your cats pick up on their own, not something that can be taught to them. Don’t try to force them into the litter box by rubbing their paws or face in it.
Make canned food the mainstay of your cat’s diet. Dry food may cost less, but canned food has more benefits. It has water content, which is good for cats with bladder issues. For older cats, canned food chew easier. Discuss this with your vet, who may tell you to feed your cat canned food.
Does it seem like cat hair is everywhere? You have to brush your cat to avoid their shedding. If your cat is a big shedder, you definitely want to brush him often. This will prevent your cat’s coat from getting matted or tangled.
If you notice that your cat isn’t using its’ litter box anymore, you need to take note. Health problems may be causing your cat to urinate in places other than their litter box. These conditions include kidney and bladder problems. Consult with your veterinarian when your cat refuses to use its litter box.
If you own a declawed cat, do not let it outdoors. Since the cat is not able to adequately defend himself from attack, there is a risk of serious injury. Indoor cats are the only ones who should be considered for declawing. It is still best to just remove the front claws. The back claws should remain as they will not scratch furniture or floors.
Any difference in the environment of your home is easily detected by the keen sense of smell that your cat possesses. This may cause some problems when introducing new beds, scratching posts, or food dishes. Do not be concerned if your cat does not accept these new items immediately. As the smell takes on the smell of your home, your cat will warm up to it.
If you have been at home with your cat for an extended period and then return to work, it is quite possible that your cat will show signs of loneliness. To ensure they’ll stay happy while you’re out of the house, you should consider getting a second cat.
One easy way to prevent a lot of potential feline health problems down the road is to refrain from over-feeding your cat. If your cat gets more food than he needs, then he will quickly become obese which can lead to more serious health issues. Take care to feed your cat the correct portion sizes. A balanced, nutritious diet is important.
You love your cat and want to know how to care of it. With these tips and ideas in mind, you have the knowledge you need to better care for your pet. Use these tips for a happier cat. If you love your cat, you will receive much love back.
