It isn’t always easy to make a cat happy. At times, it can be difficult to understand what cats are thinking. But, when properly educated, it’s easier to care for them. The advice below will help you give your pet what it needs.
A microchip will allow you to find your pet if it is lost. Even indoor cats get out sometimes. A collar with tags increases your chances of getting your cat back if it gets lost but it can also be a risk, for instance if it gets snagged in some branches. Microchips are as small as a rice grain and have all of your important contact information. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.
Cats frequently groom themselves. However, if it has a lot of hair, hairballs can occur. If you’ve got a cat with this issue, get it special types of food. Some cat food brands have formulations to prevent or reduce hairballs, which will make life easier for your cat and you.
Male cats often develop crystals in their bladder that come out in their urine. This can be prevented with a proper diet. This problem is painful for the cat and to your wallet, as well. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Read the label on any food you choose. Poultry-based foods are generally lower in magnesium than fish.
Set a tablecloth under your cat’s food bowl. Some cats like removing food from their bowl and eating it beside their bowl. This leaves food on the floor outside their bowl that must be cleaned. An easy solution to this problem is a placemat underneath the food dish, or a piece of fabric you can easily wash.
There needs to be set boundaries with your children and a new kitty. Make sure your kids know where the cat can be. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.
Brush your cat at regular times. This will help stimulate blood flow. It is also a good way to reduce shedding. This is a good way to avoid hairballs, which are a serious health problem since they can cause choking.
You eat quality food, and if you want your cat to stick around a long time, they need quality food, too. Read the ingredients, and make sure a source of protein, like fish or chicken, is near the top. Try avoiding foods that have non-protein elements like corn. Cats are carnivores, and they need a good amount of protein in their diet.
Feed canned food to your cat. It sometimes has more benefits over dry. Canned food gives your cat more protein and the water content helps with hydration. Aging cats can chew this easier. Speak with your vet, however generally speaking, canned cat food is better for your cat.
If adding an additional cat to your home, give the cats a couple of weeks to get comfortable with each other. They may seem like they’re fighting all the time. However, if you allow them to slowly get used to each other, they will eventually become friends.
It is important for a cat to have play time. It is pretty normal for all different types of species to have an inner desire to play. Even older cats love a little play, just not as rough. Make sure you have fun with the cat whenever you can!
Long-haired breeds are pretty, but understand how much work they are before you get one. While long, silky hair is beautiful on a cat, the same fur appears far less beautiful covering your floor, dark clothing, and furniture. Only choose a cat with long hair if you can clean up after it consistently. They can also have more health issues due to hairballs.
Does your home feel inundated with balls of cat fur? Cats can shed quite a bit; therefore, it’s important that you maintain proper grooming habits by brushing them often. When you see them shedding more than normal, that’s a great time to brush them. Frequent brushing or combing keeps the cat from getting a tangled, matted coat.
Litter Box
The location of a litter box is very important. It’s tempting to keep it in an inconspicuous place where it won’t be seen or smelled. It is important to locate the litter box where your cat can easily get to it. Cats are quite finicky, so it is important to make their bathroom environment appealing them them or risk messes throughout the house. If the litter box is kept on a cement floor, then place a rug or mat underneath it.
The information from this article can help you care for your cat. Use this article to ensure that you are fulfilling your cat’s most basic needs, as well as its need for love. You never know…perhaps cats CAN be impressed by humans. Well, perhaps!