Would you save a pet’s life if you could? Millions upon millions of cats are searching for a home. When you plan to adopt one, read this article to learn how to care for it.
Local Shelter
Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Shelters always have plenty of cats available and adoption fees are usually very affordable. By adopting a cat from your local shelter, you will preserve a life and will do your part in controlling the cat population.
Cats like to get into all sorts of small spaces. If they have a collar on, this can be dangerous. A collar that will breakaway is the best idea for safety. That’ll keep kitty safe.
Kitty claws can be quite destructive to fabric and furnishings. If your kitty is doing this, one way to redirect his behavior is to purchase a scratching post or cat tower. Put cat nip on it to attract them to it. It may take some time, but will be worth the effort and expense.
Consider having your cat fitted with a microchip. Even though a cat may live inside, you never know if it will run out the door to escape. 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. Microchips are as tiny as a piece of rice and will tell people where the cat belongs. Almost every vet and shelter has a scanner these days, and they can retrieve your contact information should they find your pet.
Your cat most likely spends quite a bit of time grooming. When your cat has long hair, this can cause hairballs. To help your cat out with this problem, try buying him special food. There are foods on the market for cats that specifically deal with the hairball problems and are good for the cat.
You should talk to other pet owners if you have an issue with yours. Advice from other people can be very beneficial for you. Use the Internet to share tips with other cat owners and ask your questions or talk with your neighbors, friends or veterinarian.
Give high quality canned food to your pet cat. Even though the dry versions can be more cost-effective, canned cat food usually is more beneficial. There is more water in canned food and more protein and fat too. It’s also much softer on older teeth if your cat is getting up there in years. Can food is generally better, but consult your vet first before feeding it to your cat.
Don’t bring home a cat with long hair without taking into account the extra care they’ll require. While long haired cats are soft and look great, understand that there will be a lot more fur around the rest of the house. Only choose a cat with long hair if you can clean up after it consistently. There will be hairball issues as well.
Litter Box
Think carefully about where you put the litter box for your cat. Many people want it in an out of the way spot. This litter box must stay in an easy-to-find spot for your cat. This will keep your cat as happy as possible. Put a rug under it for cleanliness, too.
Keeping vaccinations up-to-date is the way to make sure your cat lives longer and more healthy. Stick to regular check-ups. Similar to kids, cats need shots and check-ups to prevent health problems. Your cat is a family member, so treat them like anyone else you love in your home.
If possible, make sure your cat is always indoors. Cats who live indoors live longer and are healthier than outdoor cats. Cats who live indoors are less likely to contract a disease than those who live outdoors.
Declawed Cat
Never have a declawed cat to spend time outdoors. They can’t defend themselves against other animals and cats, which can risk injuries or death. The only place for a declawed cat is inside, with you. Remove only the front claws. Don’t remove the back claws. This will help ensure that your cat remains safe in case it gets outside, and back claws will not scratch any furniture.
If you have a cat with frequent hair ball problems, and brushing has provided no relief, the following tips might be useful. Consider mixing a little pumpkin into your cat’s food. You can mix the pumpkin with a bit of water from a can of tuna. There are cat foods that have anti-hairball components in them, like extra fiber, that can help.
You should be proud about caring for your cat. You’re offering your home and love to an animal that desperately needs it. You can look forward to many years of companionship with your cat. When you love your cat, it will love you back.
