Cats truly are wonderful pets. Cats are so independent, which works out great for you if you’re not home all the time. The following article gives you sound advice that you can use to keep your cat happy and healthy.
If you own a female cat, you should have her spayed when she is old enough. Even though your cat stays indoors all the time, there might be that one time she slips through the door when she goes into heat, which results in a litter of unexpected kittens. Spaying your cat is the best way to prevent this from happening.
Part of caring for your cat is taking it to regular veterinarian checkups. They need a check-up and possibly vaccinations. Cats should go to a vet immediately if they have any conditions, health problems, or injuries that need to be tended to right away.
It’s not easy to keep cats off counters. A cat will naturally want to be high enough to view everything around them. You may be able to battle this issue by giving your cat a high place to chill. Sometimes strategically placing a tall cat tower near your kitchen will help.
Consider having your cat fitted with a microchip. Even indoor cats get out sometimes. A tagged collar might help get kitty home, but it can just as easily come off if snagged on a branch. A microchip will hold the contact information to reach you and it’s only about as big as a piece of rice. The chip will never be lost because it is under the skin and it can easily be read by any shelter or vet.
Try to avoid your cat from becoming bored each day. Cats need play and exercise. But many cat owners ignore that need. If your cat is bored, it might develop a depression, obsessive compulsive behaviors or ruin some of your furniture. Provide your cats with the toys and space it needs. Give them a cat tree to play with.
You can often find better deals for cat medicine online rather than buying them from the veterinarian. Online prescriptions are not the best choice if you do not have the time to wait on a mail order, such as in a medical emergency. For ongoing medical issues, you can buy ahead and save a substantial amount of money online.
Put a cloth down in your cat’s eating area. Cats like to make a mess when they eat. Sometimes, this results in food outside the bowl that you have to clean up. Simply place a cloth placemat that will grab at the food under their plate and then shaken out over the trash. You can put a vinyl one underneath that can be picked up wiped down easily if you prefer.
If your cat dirties the space near his litter box, don’t punish them. Usually this is a sign that you haven’t cleaned the box recently. If you get mad, they’ll never use the box again.
Always make sure that your cat has on identification tags and a collar. Even a cat you plan on always staying indoors should have identification. Cats are inquisitive and will explore an open door or window if it is presented to them. Tags should include contact information for you and your vet. Also make sure to note any unusual medical requirements.
Do you see cat hair everywhere you look? Cats are shedding machines, which means you need to brush them to keep the shedding under control. When you see them shedding more than normal, that’s a great time to brush them. Brushing will also keep their coat in good shape.
If you have a pregnant cat ready to birth her babies, be sure she has enough space. The birth will take place over the span of several hours. If it’s been over 6 hours and you think there are more kittens inside, they need to see a vet immediately.
If kitty won’t use the litter box, try moving it. Cats know that during the elimination process they are left somewhat vulnerable, so moving the box to a more private area should help. For example, your basement, laundry room or other room away from household activity should suffice.
Outdoor Cat
Don’t have an outdoor cat declawed. An outdoor cat who has been declawed cannot defend itself as well without claws; therefore, you are putting your cat in extreme danger. Indoor cats are the only ones that you should declaw. Even so, only remove the front claws when you do so. The back claws should remain as they will not scratch furniture or floors.
Cats make the best pets. Without learning about the sort of care your pet requires, though, there’s no way you can be a truly responsible cat owner. The next time you interact with your cat, remember what you’ve just read. This maximizes the happiness in the life of your cat.
