As pets, cats are always a great choice, except that they can get a little pricey. From taking them to the vet to feeding them, it can all add up. This article gives information about some ways you can keep your cat while saving money.
Make frequent checkups with your vet to keep your cat healthy. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up. It is best to always take your cat to the same veterinarian. This way they will know your cat’s history the best.
Do not allow your cat to get an electrical shock. Spray them with bitter apple, and they will stay away. If this does not work, make sure you cover the cords. Tuck loose cords into old toilet paper or paper towel rolls. Whenever you aren’t using any thin, electronic cords, you should store them away.
Cats are known for spending inordinate amounts of time grooming themselves. Long hair encourages hairballs. To help prevent this from occurring, buy your cat special food. Some foods are in fact formulated specifically to reduce hairballs, and that is a good idea for your cat and you too.
Cat Outside
Reconsider outside time for your cat. There are many dangers to your cat outside. Your cat may get fleas or something even worse than that. Cats can be harmed by cars, people and other animals. If you must let your cat outside, do so in a very small area of your backyard or lawn.
Cats enjoy being in high places. Your cat will appreciate being on top of a cupboard, fridge or anywhere they can surrey their environment. You can give your cat on a shelf to accomplish this. Providing a blanket or bed for your cat is an extra treat for them.
Brush your cat’s coat often. Brushing spreads natural oils through the fur and also stimulates circulation. It can also reduce the amount of loose hair they have. This can keep hairballs at bay because this can choke up a cat and also build up in its stomach.
Do not discipline your cat if it makes a mess outside its litter box. They’re doing it because the box is too dirty, or they may be sick. If you punish your cat for this, it will fear you later in the future.
Give your cat a water fountain. A cat will always drink from running water if possible. They are more likely to get plenty of water when it is running. In fact, the running water in a sink garnishes more attention from a cat than their water bowl usually does. So a drinking fountain makes a smart investment that’s both environmentally friendly and loved by your feline.
Have your cat vaccinated as often as your vet prescribes. Kittens need proper medical care just like young children, and its best to bring them in every so often for health checks to ensure nothing terrible is going on. You need to stay up to date with immunization and booster shots to improve the health of your cat.
Litter Box
If your feline just won’t use the litter box, try moving it to a different location. A cat will be more inclined to use the litter box if it is placed in a quiet and safe area in your home. A couple of good places to put your cat box are your basement and laundry room.
Outfit your cat with a tag and collar containing your address, phone number, and name. Cats who stay indoors could still get out. Do everything possible to make sure your cat is returned safely to you in the event it gets out.
Don’t ever give your cat medicine created for humans. If they have health issues, see a vet and give them what they provide. Giving your pet medication that was meant for you can hurt them pretty seriously and it may even cause death.
Cats are really good at smelling, and that means they’re good at figuring out if something in their environment has changed. This is good but can cause issues when you introduce something new to the home, like a new cat bed or scratching post. Be prepared for your cat to be wary of the new item initially. You cat will adjust as the smells of the new items as they become a regular part of his daily routine.
Beware of panting. Panting is normal for a dog. If your cat is panting it may be overheated or having anxiety. It may also be something that is a lot more serious than those things. It is wise to consult your vet, especially if the cat has past respiratory problems.
Cats can get sick in some of the same ways you can. Because your pet is a family member, you are around them enough to know when they are not feeling very good. Always take your cat to the vet if you suspect illness. Tis will set your mind at ease, ruling out the most serious diseases and illnesses.
It’s very important to always have a collar and tags on your cat. Cats are intelligent creatures and will use any opportunity to wander outside. If your pet is wearing a tag and collar, it’ll be easy for anyone who finds it outside to bring it back to you.
It’s difficult to deny that owning any type of pet comes with costs and conundrums. It’s so much work, it rivals raising a child! As you’ve seen here, your cat expenditures can be reduced while still allowing you to take good care of your cat.