Cats are nearly everywhere, including feral cats that wander the streets all of the time. Adopting a new kitten is a great way to help keep this population of wild animals down and you will find that a cat is a great pet to have. You should keep reading if you want to learn more about what owning a cat means.
Taking your cat in for regular check-ups at the veterinarian’s office is part of being a responsible pet owner. Cats need to get shots so they don’t get sick and a vet can help you make sure your cat is okay. Your cat will be more comfortable if you continue using the same vet. This is because this person will know your cat and the history of the animal.
Make sure you purchase medicines and treatments specifically for cats. Cats don’t like dog products. Flea products for dogs are one of the worst products to give a cat. Flea products meant for dogs can seriously harm or kill a cat. In truth, your cat needs to be kept a distance from any dog just flea-treated for the first few hours.
Cats love to play on kitchen counters, and it can be hard to break them of the habit. A cat will naturally want to be high enough to view everything around them. One way to nip this problem in the bud is to give your cat a dedicated perch of their own as an alternative to using your space. Putting a cat tower in or near the kitchen can help keep the cats from laying on the counter.
Have your cat chipped so you can find him if he runs away. Even a house cat may end up lost outside, no matter how careful you are. Even if you put a collar or tag on your cat, be careful as they can wiggle out of these very easily and can be dangerous if they get caught on a foreign object like a tree branch. Microchips are as small as a rice grain and have all of your important contact information. All shelters and vets have scanners to ensure your cat gets home safely.
Keep smaller children away from pets as they are typically too aggressive. It is important that you teach children how to properly interact with a new cat. Give them examples of how to be gentle with it and what should and should not be done. Cats have weaker bones than dogs and need more gentle treatment.
You may find it is helpful to talk to others about challenges you have with your cat. You won’t have the knowledge to handle every cat issue properly, so take advantage of the experiences of others. You can find several cat forums online where you can ask questions, or you can choose to simply call your vet for advice too.
There is no need to spend hours trying to litter train your cat. This comes naturally – you can’t teach it. Many people think rubbing a cat’s paws in litter will teach them to use the litter box, but it might actually traumatize them.
Regularly brush your cat’s hair. This will spread all of their natural oils around and help their blood flow. It also loosens hair that is about ready to fall out. This can keep hairballs at bay because this can choke up a cat and also build up in its stomach.
Litter Box
Don’t punish cats for making messes outside the litter box. Often, this happens when the litter box is dirty. Punishments given to the cat will just make him or her less willing to be around its owner going forward.
Let your cat get comfortable using a carrier. Cats are not as responsive to punishment as dogs are. Most of the time, it is better to use positive reinforcement. Inside the carrier, put a favorite toy and blanket. Leave it open in an area the cat will see. The cat will feel safe when it enters this carrier after a while. This takes the hassle out of traveling with your cat in its carrier.
After reading this article, you should have a working knowledge on how to care for your cat. You will find that a fun cat is a great addition to your family. Of course, you have to remember that cats can be sensitive so they need to be carefully cared for. You could even end up bonding with one of the feral cats.