Cats can be finicky. Your cat’s actions may mystify you. With the right techniques, you can improve your abilities as an owner. You should keep reading for some useful tips that will help you become a better pet owner.
If you’re thinking of getting a cat for a pet, you should look to the local shelter. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. Besides, adopting a cat from an animal shelter means you are saving this cat’s life.
You should make sure your cat stays groomed properly. You should comb and/or brush them on a regular basis. Doing it constantly can help you keep their coats clean. It can cut down on shedding and spitting up hairballs, too. A cat that is well-groomed is one that looks the best at home.
Taking your cat in for regular check-ups at the veterinarian’s office is part of being a responsible pet owner. Not only will a veterinarian give a general physical exam, he or she will also make sure they have necessary vaccinations. Your cat will be more comfortable if you continue using the same vet. This also allows the vet to become more familiar with your cat’s unique health needs and personality.
To help your old cat feel comfy, keep a tile that’s heated under their bed. Just heat a one-foot square terra cotta tile in your oven at about 200 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Put it inside a cloth and place underneath your feline’s blanket or bed. Change every few hours if you like.
Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. Cats can roam far, so a tag will ensure you find them quickly when they’re lost. Even if the tag just has your phone number, it can be the difference between your pet coming home and being lost forever.
Your cat needs lots of affection and love. They want the same level of companionship that they give to you as their owner. Cats need social time with the family just like people do so that they know that they are valued. They probably would like to feel as though they are a wanted part of the family.
Cats sometimes will spend hours grooming themselves to perfection. If the cat has longer hair, it can be the cause of hairballs. There are special foods you can buy to try to help with this particular problem. Look for cat food that is designed to minimize hairballs to keep you and your cat happier.
Place a “tablecloth” under your cat’s food bowl. Cats like to make a mess when they eat. This can result in you having to clean up food outside its bowl if you don’t use a tablecloth. An easy solution to this problem is a placemat underneath the food dish, or a piece of fabric you can easily wash.
Why is your cat meowing? After some time, you’ll understand why your cat purs or meows based on what she wants. Possibilities include that she is hungry or wants to be let outside. You’ll learn her cues quickly.
Never make the mistake of leaving a kitten in a room alone with small children. Children under five years of age should not be left alone with a kitten. Little children do not have the necessary skills yet to handle a pet by themselves. When children are over the age of five, then you should decide whether or not they are mature enough to handle a kitten.
Speak to your peers about your cat issues. Although you may feel like you don’t need help, other owners may be able to give you good advice. There are many online forums that discuss cats. Most vets will also be happy to help you with some advice.
Be sure to carrier train your cat. Cats and dogs do not usually respond the same ways to punishment. Cats are much more responsive to positive interaction rather than negative. Therefore, place your cat’s favorite toy into its career. Leave the carrier open in a location that your cat frequently visits. The cat will eventually get into it and feel comfy. Transporting the carrier with your cat inside makes your next trip out much easier.
Feed your cat several different kinds of food if you want to the lower the chances of them becoming finicky. If they eat the same food all the time without changing it, that may be the only one they’ll eat later on.
Identification Tags
Ensure that your cat wears a collar and identification tags at all times. This is essential even for indoor cats. Your cat will go out as soon as you leave a door or a window open. The identification tags should contain your home phone number and the number for your veterinarian. If your kitty has medical conditions, this information can be a life saver.
Let your cat take its time when you add a new cat to your home. They may be leery of each other at first and fight. Eventually, they become used to each other and are comfortable together.
Your cat needs good play time. It is pretty normal for all different types of species to have an inner desire to play. While older cats aren’t near as energetic, they still enjoy playing often. Make sure you play with your cat at least once a day.
Long-haired breeds are pretty, but understand how much work they are before you get one. The hair may be a gorgeous thing to behold, but it will require a lot of maintenance. If you don’t mind cleaning, get a long-haired cat. There will be hairball issues as well.
This article’s tips will assist you in caring for your cat, even if you’re unable to make it happy. Use the tips in this article to ensure that your cat is being well cared for. Your cat just might start playing nice! It could happen!