Many people make the mistake of not planning when they get a cat for the first time, and they run into a lot of issues. When one adopts unprepared, bad things can happen. Just remember, even with proper planning, there will always be unknowns when dealing with cats. However, you can plan for as much as possible by considering the useful tips that follow.
Make sure you keep all the recommended appointments with your cat’s veterinarian. In addition to checking the health of your cat, a vet can give him any needed shots. Do your best to use the same vet for your cat’s entire life. This person will be more knowledgeable on your cat’s history.
Cats enjoy getting into small spaces. A collar can become a liability if your cat is especially adventurous. Collars designed to release when sufficient force is applied (“breakaway” collars) are a great idea. This will allow your cat to live another day if it gets tangled up.
If you own a female cat, make sure the cat is spade when she’s old enough. While your cat may be an indoor one, there is always the possibility it can get out and you wind up with kittens one day. The best method of stopping this is to have your cat spayed.
Think about getting a microchip for your feline friend. Even a house cat may end up lost outside, no matter how careful you are. Although they provide the information needed to find your beloved pet, they can also accidentally get caught or even be wiggled out of. A microchip about as big as a grain of rice and holds all the contact information your cat needs. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.
Litter Box
Your kitty’s litter box requires strategic placement. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals. It is also advisable to keep the litter box area ventilated to control odor. This will keep both you and your cat happy.
Give your cat lots of attention 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 wish to be a happy and valuable family member.
Look online for cat medicine. You can’t always get it online. However, if your pet gets regular prescriptions for a chronic or ongoing issue, you can often save up to 50 percent by shopping online.
Cats are great pets, but little ones may not understand that they are fragile. Make sure your child knows how to pet a cat. Teach them which activities are good and how to properly pick your cat up. A cat’s bones can be quite fragile and they need to be treated gently.
Do you have dogs and cats? That dog will really love stalking (and eating) that cat food. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. This is a good way to keep your pets from fighting over food and water.
Be sure to brush or comb your cat’s fur on a regular basis. The act of brushing helps the coat become glossy, and it helps stimulate the skin. It can help decrease the amount of loose hair as well. This will help you to avoid hairballs, which may cause your cat to choke. Hairballs are caused when a cat grooms itself.
While a torn up scratching post might look unattractive, do not get rid of it. When it is in this condition, cats tend to like it the most. If you throw it away, you may find your cat scratching on other surfaces.
Feed your pet canned food. Dry food is less expensive, but canned food provides more benefits. Canned food generally provides more nutrients, protein and fat as well as liquids. For aging cats, it is also easier to chew. Ask your vet for more info, bun in general, canned food is much better for a number of reasons.
If you notice your cat is urinating a lot or at improper places, you should take it to the vet. Cats can show this behavior if they have a type of urinary tract infection or other health issue. A potentially serious illness can be prevented with some inexpensive antibiotics.
Do you see cat hair everywhere you look? Cats can shed quite a bit; therefore, it’s important that you maintain proper grooming habits by brushing them often. Cats that shed a lot need to be brushed more frequently. Brushing will also keep their coat in good shape.
Make sure you consider where you are going to place the cat’s litter box. You may want to hide it away. However, it is important to keep their litter box in an area they can easily get to. Felines can be finicky. This means you must give them the right location and make sure it is inviting. A litter box located in the basement should be placed on a thick mat or rug.
Dogs usually wag their tails as a sign of friendly greeting or encouragement. Cats wag their tail for a different reason. When a cat is wagging its tail, it’s actually feeling threatened and mulling over the classic question of fight or flight. If you are petting your cat and its tail begins to wag vigorously, stay away from the cat. It may be ready to attack you.
The excellent advice provided here is helpful for any cat regardless of its breed or age. You also need to get to know your cat better so you can adapt to its needs and habits. If you’re not having fun after you adopt a cat, there is a serious problem.
