If you are seeking an excellent house pet, then a cat is an excellent choice. However, if you’re new to cat ownership, you may want to read the paragraphs below. Below are some great tips and tricks that every cat owner needs to know in order to live happily with their new feline friend.
Cats can get into even the tiniest of spaces. If your cat wears a collar they might get hurt, and stuck. A breakaway collar has the ability to release its hold if the cat pulls tightly on it. This can keep your cat alive.
Make sure your cat is not too bored. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. But many cat owners ignore that need. Cats that are bored may develop obsessive compulsive disorders, depression, or other issues that can harm their health. Give them lots of space for exercise and plenty of toys they can play with. If they stay indoors make sure they have a scratching post for climbing.
If you’re looking for good prices on cat medications, check online sources. The prices will usually be substantially better than at your vet. In some situations, you may not have the choice to purchase meds over the Internet, such as a health emergency. However, if you buy meds for your cat on a regular basis, you can save huge amounts by getting medication via the Internet.
Your cat has sensitive ears, especially in the car when they’re stressed out. Although you might enjoy jamming to your music, understand that cats prefer peace and quiet. Reduce the volume of the music and keep the windows up; let your cat rest!
Cover the area around your cat’s bowl with a cloth. Often cats prefer moving food from a bowl onto the floor to eat. Sometimes this will make the area around the bowl messy, and you’ll have to clean it. To make clean up a breeze, use a place mat underneath the bowl or a piece of fabric. You’ll be able to pick it up easily and shake the excess food into the trash.
Think hard before allowing your cat outside. Your cat might not be safe outside. Your cat may get fleas or have other problems. Cats can be gravely injured or killed by eating poisonous plants, flowers or chemicals, hit by a car or even harmed by neighbors who are irritated with your cat on their property. Cage in an area for a cat in your backyard if they must go outside.
Cats love to be high up. To make your cat happier, give him a lookout perch where he can check out the area. If you’d rather not invest in a cat tree, simply use a large shelf or bookcase without any breakable items. You could even place a small bed or blanket on the shelf to make your cat feel more comfortable.
If your cat relieves itself away from its litter box, do not spring into action with punishment. Check out the box instead and see if it has been neglected; this is often a cause of accidents. Punishment can make your cat fearful in your presence.
Get your cat used to a carrier. The same response to punishment that you would expect from a dog does not apply to a cat. Encouragement is a much better strategy. Place the open carrier in an area that your cat visits often and outfit it with a favorite toy and blanket. Over time, the cat will feel comfortable and go inside the carrier. Let it happen naturally or with only mild coaxing. Do not get angry. Transporting your cat inside the carrier will then become much easier.
If your cat or kitten begins to urinate frequently or in places other than his litter box, a trip to the vet may be in order. This is likely to be something that should be looked after. Certain antibiotics prescribed by your vet can clear up the problem.
Think about the extra work before buying a long-haired cat. Shedding is a major issue that you will have to face. Unless you’re committed to taking care of the furry mess, avoid getting cat with long hair. Hairballs are something that you will often deal with if you own a fluffy cat.
Cats have a great sense of smell, which allows them to be more perceptive. This can lead to issues when you introduce something new, such as a new toy, bed, or food dish. Don’t be upset if the cat does not take to these items immediately. You cat will adjust as the smells of the new items as they become a regular part of his daily routine.
Make sure that your cat is eating dry food when possible. When cats are young they are going to have to have wet food due to having small teeth. As they grow older, dry foods ensure that their teeth are strong. Try combining both dry and wet food together should you have a finicky feline.
Put tape on your furnishings. Whenever your cat scratches any upholstery, sticky tape is a great way to dissuade them from doing it again. You can even find tape specifically designed for this use in many pet stores. Booby-trapping furniture and getting a scratching post can help you break your cat of this habit.
You should look for holes in which your cat could hide. Cats have the ability to get through small spaces. You could easily lose a kitten. This is essential when you purchase a new cat. Repair or cover up any holes.
Becoming a cat owner is a terrific idea. Cats are often a comfort and can also aid in stress relief. However, it is important to know the basics of cat care in order to live peacefully with your feline. Taking the advice contained in this article means your cat is sure to live out a long lifespan.