Although cat ownership is often delightful, it also comes with its share of challenges! There is a ton you need to know, and this article provides you with great advice.
Move any drape cords out of a cat’s reach. Whenever cats jump on these cords, they might get tangled up in them. This could even choke them to death. Hang your drapery cords out of your cats’ sight to avoid this.
When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. Shelters always have plenty of cats available and adoption fees are usually very affordable. By choosing a cat from an animal shelter, you can do your part to help with overpopulation. Also, you become a lifesaver!
Cats enjoy getting into spaces that are small. If they are wearing a collar this can pose a safety risk, in the event that your cat gets stuck. The advantage to a breakaway type collar is that if enough pressure is put on it, it will just let go rather than strangle the cat. Your cat can preserve a few of his nine lives with this.
Get your cat to a vet on a regular basis for the best health possible. They need a check-up and possibly vaccinations. Cats should see a vet right away if any health problems or injuries needing treatment occur.
Do not use dog products on your cat. Cats will have a reaction that’s negative towards a product made for dogs. This warning applies to products for getting rid of fleas. Some products designed for dogs could be harmful to your cat. In fact, it is a good idea to separate your cat and dog for a few hours after your dog has taken flea medication.
Microchips are an increasingly popular form of pet protection. Your pet may be an indoor cat, but that doesn’t mean it’ll never dash through your door or slide outside via an open window. Collars or tags can identify your cat, but cats can wiggle out of those, and they are also at risk of getting hung up on something. Your name and the best way to contact you can be encoded on the chip, which is tiny. Most vets and all shelters can scan these chips to get your contact information and there is no risk of losing the chip.
Try to avoid your cat from becoming bored each day. They need exercise and they get it through play. But many cat owners ignore that need. Boredom can beget illness. Give them toys they can play with, play with them yourself, or at the least give them room to exercise. A scratching post is a valuable toy to put in your home.
You should try your hardest to figure out the reason that you are hearing your cat meow. The more time you spend with your cat, the better you’ll understand what its meows mean. She will let you know when her demands are for food or when you need to let her out. By giving her the proper amount of attention you can better attend to her needs.
Do not discipline your cat if it makes a mess outside its litter box. Usually, this sort of thing happens when the box isn’t being tended to properly. If your punish your car, he or she is just going to become scared of you.
Your cat should like their carrier. Cats never respond to punishment the way that dogs do. They like responding to encouragement better. Therefore, place your cat’s favorite toy into its career. Leave the carrier open in a location that your cat frequently visits. Your cat will want to inspect the carrier and probably enjoy hiding inside. It will be simpler to transport them using the carrier.
Increase the variety of food that you give your cat. When you give the same thing day after day, it becomes boring.
A collar and tags are a great way that your cat can be identified if it is found stray. This applies even to indoor cats. Cats are endlessly curious and may head out an open door or window. Tags should include contact information for you and your vet. This is especially true for cats with medical conditions.
Don’t bring home a cat with long hair without taking into account the extra care they’ll require. Even though that nice coat of beautiful silky fur looks great, it can leave a mess on your floors, furniture and clothing. Don’t adopt a cat with long fur unless you’re sure you can handle the extra cleaning. More, and longer hair, usually means more hairballs too.
Your cat should remain indoors and near your home. Indoor cats live longer and stay healthier. You can exercise your cat by playing with it.
Don’t give your cat medicine intended for humans. If you have a sick cat it is best to take them to someone who specializes in animal sickness, such as a veterinarian. If you give a pet something that it shouldn’t take, you could injure it or even kill it.
Your cat has a remarkable sense of smell, much better than humans. They detect subtle changes in their environment. This may cause some problems when introducing new beds, scratching posts, or food dishes. Be prepared for your cat to be wary of the new item initially. You cat will adjust as the smells of the new items as they become a regular part of his daily routine.
Owning a cat means a fair amount of work on your part. Use these tips to become a better cat owner and to really enjoy it. The research will reward you both!