Cats are interesting, unique and make for a family member to share your home with. They are independent and have a busy life, even if you’re not at home all the time. The following article will help you to learn all about cats.
Never let a cat become bored. Although you may believe that cats just lie around, this isn’t the case. They need their exercise. But many cat owners ignore that need. A bored cat may fall victim to depression, compulsive disorders or issued that can be harmful to their health. Make sure your cats have a wide variety of toys and plenty of room for active play. If you have an indoor cat, offer him a variety of toys, scratching post or objects he can climb on.
The correct location is important when picking a spot for a cat’s litter box. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals. Make sure it’s properly ventilated to keep smell down. Not only will your cat appreciate it but you will too.
Male felines tend to have a build-up of crystals that present in the urine, so you need to avoid this with proper nutrition. The cat is in pain passing the crystals, and the correction for this is costly. Food with a low magnesium content will help. Read the labels. Fish products are usually higher in magnesium.
Create a little tablecloth for your cat. Sometimes cats prefer to remove food from their bowls and eat it from the floor. This can really make a mess, and you might have to spend significant time cleaning around your cat’s food bowl. An easier way to do that is to either buy a placemat and put it underneath the cat bowl, or to cut a bit of fabric to use as a tablecloth that you can pick up and wash or shake over the garbage can.
Try to figure out the cause if you find your cat meowing excessively. Over time, you will pick up on the reasons why your cat is making this gesture. Your cat might need food or might want to go out. Make sure you are paying attention in order to better understand your cat.
Cats enjoy being in high places. Elevate your cat so that it can scan the area. You should install a cat tree or allow your cat to climb on some shelves. Make sure that this area is comfortable for your cat.
Don’t try and teach your kitty how the litter box is supposed to be used. They do this by nature and don’t need to be taught. A lot of people think that they can take their cat and try to rub their cat’s paws on the litter, but this may just traumatize the cat.
Be sure to carrier train your cat. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Encouragement is a better way to get your cats to perform. Take their favorite blanket and place it within the carrier. Then leave the carrier with the door ajar in a frequented spot. The cat will be drawn to the carrier, where it will feel safe and comfy. In the future, your cat will not get scared when you put him in the carrier.
If your cat’s scratching post looks old and worn, don’t throw it away immediately. This is the condition that cats most appreciate. Removing the post could cause your cat to look for something else scratch, possibly damaging your furniture.
Purchase good quality food for your cat. Carefully look over ingredients, and be sure that a quality protein source like chicken, fish, or beef is at the beginning of the list. Look for foods that do not have corn or elements that aren’t protein. Cats are carnivores and need animal protein to stay healthy.
Ensure your cat is collared and wears an identification tag. Even indoor cats should have identification on them. An adventurous cat can easily slip through an open door or window. Include your vet’s info as well as your own on the tags. This is especially true for cats with medical conditions.
Long-haired breeds are pretty, but understand how much work they are before you get one. There is no denying that long-haired cats are beautiful, but that beautiful coat takes a lot of work and also means a lot of shedding. You must be willing to spend more time cleaning your home. More, and longer hair, usually means more hairballs too.
Keeping your cat up to date on vaccinations and annual check ups can keep your cat in good health and provide a longer life. It is especially important that you get good vet care for kittens so they get all the shots they need. A cat is a member of the family, and therefore, is entitled to the same treatment as other loved ones.
Cats make great companion animals because they are smart, cuddly and curious. If you are going to take responsibility for a cat, it is important for you to know as much as you can about felines. Make good use of the advice you have just read to give your cat the care it needs. Your cat will enjoy a full and comfortable life.