If you own a cat, then you realize that this animal is a part of your family. Do whatever it takes to keep your cat free of parasites. These pests can affect your cat’s health. Read on for some of the best methods for keeping pests off your cats.
Make frequent checkups with your vet to keep your cat healthy. Your cat should have regular well visits, as well as all the recommended vaccinations for his age. Try using the same vet during your cat’s life. That way, the doctor will be familiar with the history of your cat.
Be sure your cat gets regular checkups at the vet. Cats should go to a vet at least once each year for a check up, and more frequently for required shots. Cats need to be seen by a vet right away if there are injuries or health problems that don’t go away.
Don’t use dog portions for your cat. This can irritate your cat or cause an allergic reaction. This warning applies to products for getting rid of fleas. Flea products that are intended for a dog can kill a cat. Actually, it is best to separate the cat from the dog once the flea problem has been treated.
Avoid the chance that your male cat will develop crystals in his system that will come out in his urine by feeding a high quality diet. The cat is in pain passing the crystals, and the correction for this is costly. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Consult the ingredient list. Fish usually has more magnesium than poultry.
Though a veterinarian will almost always have a supply of medications that your cat needs, it can be more cost-effective to purchase them from online venues. In emergency situations, buying online may not be a good option. The savings can amount to almost 50 percent on regularly prescribed medications.
While usually cats make great pets for kids, younger kids may be too rough with them. It is important to show your child how to approach and handle a cat. Demonstrate how to pick up the animal and how to play with it as well. Cats have more fragile bones than dogs so it is important to treat them with care.
Do you have both a dog and a cat? Dogs will eat a cat’s food any time they’re given the chance. If you’re having a problem with this, make your cat’s eating area high enough that your dog cannot reach. This will help prevent any fights that may occur between your animals.
Give your cat a wide array of foods in order to prevent pickiness. If you start them off eating the same type of food all of the time and you never change it up, this will most likely be the only food they will eat in the future.
Provide your cat with high-quality cat food. Ensure that the food your cat eats is very high in protein. Try to avoid foods that consist of corn, or other non-protein elements. Cats are carnivores and must have a lot of animal protein for proper nutrition and better health.
Play is something that all cats need to do. No matter what age, play is common among cats and other animals. Your old cat will not play as much but will still appreciate the excitement. Therefore, be sure you set some time for playing with your cat.
If you are considering a long-haired cat breed then you should also consider the extra maintenance required. That hair will truly get everywhere! Don’t adopt a cat with long fur unless you’re sure you can handle the extra cleaning. Long-haired cats are also more prone to hairballs.
If you have a cat who won’t use the litter box, try moving it someplace else. Just like humans, cats can be sensitive to where they eliminate, so choose a private location if possible. A couple of good places to put your cat box are your basement and laundry room.
Dogs wag their tails frequently when they are happy or excited to see their owners. Cats wag their tail as well, but have different reasons psychologically. A cat that is flicking its tail is either feeling threatened or predatory and is considering his next move. If you hold your cat and it starts wagging its tail, you should put your cat down right away.
Your cat should remain indoors and near your home. Indoor cats live longer and stay healthier. Exercising every day with the owner doesn’t come with the risks of disease or attack that other cats face roaming the wild.
All cats are vulnerable to a number of different parasites. Unless you take measures against them, these pests aren’t going anywhere. Prevention is often the key to successful treatment. Your cat will be happy that you did.