If you could save the life of an animal, would you? There are literally millions of cats who are stuck in shelters through no fault of their own, and they need a loving forever home. You only need to adopt one and take care of it, which is easy with the information provided in this article.
If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. This way, if your cat gets lost and is found by a stranger, that person will know how to contact you. Be sure that the pet’s name and also your home number are on the tag.
Give your cat lots of attention and love. Cats are looking for a response in kind in exchange for all of the friendly companionship they offer to humans. They are social creates which need reassurance. They also like feeling important and a big member of the family.
Use quality food to prevent crystals from forming in a cat’s urine. Passing those crystals hurts and having this corrected by a vet is expensive. Try to find a cat food that has a low level of magnesium. Be sure to read the ingredient label. Products that have fish in them have more magnesium usually when compared to products with poultry.
Though a veterinarian will almost always have a supply of medications that your cat needs, it can be more cost-effective to purchase them from online venues. When an emergency strikes, however, you may not have the option of buying medications on the Internet. However, if your pet gets regular prescriptions for a chronic or ongoing issue, you can often save up to 50 percent by shopping online.
When you buy a small kitty for your children, set the boundaries ahead of time. Let your children know what rooms you will allow the cat to go into. If you want the cat to be an inside cat, let the children know he cannot go outdoors. This will ensure nothing bad happens.
Litter Box
Don’t think that you can teach a cat to use its litter box. This will be something that the cat does on its own and it usually is not learned fro another. Don’t try to force them into the litter box by rubbing their paws or face in it.
Don’t get mad at your cat if it urinates outside the litter box. If this happens, it may be because you have not kept the box as clean as you should. It isn’t fair to punish a cat for wanting a clean area to do its business, and you don’t want to make the cat wary of you.
Help your cat get accustomed to the carrier. Cats just don’t respond like dogs do when it comes to punishment. Cats usually respond well to encouragement. Put a favorite blanket and toy in the carrier and leave it open somewhere the cat frequents. Soon that cat will walk into the carrier on its own. Then, you will have no problem using the carrier.
Get your cat a drinking fountain. A cat will always drink from running water if possible. Normally, cats much prefer water that comes out in a stream. Actually, you will see many cats prefer running tap water from the sink instead of the water bowl. A fountain will give them the same effect, and it is more environmentally friendly.
Feed canned food to your cat. Even though the dry versions can be more cost-effective, canned cat food usually is more beneficial. Your cat will get more water and more vitamins and protein. This will make it easier for your older cats to digest. Speak with your veterinarian before making any major changes, however in general, canned food is better for your cat.
If your cat begins defecating or urinating too frequently, it’s time to see the vet. Sometimes, abnormal urination habits indicate an infection of the urinary tract. A potentially serious illness can be prevented with some inexpensive antibiotics.
Dogs will show a lot of enthusiasm through their tail when their owner comes back home. Cats also wag their tails, but for totally different reasons. Tail-wagging in a cat usually means a conflict or that they’re deciding to flee or pounce regarding a situation. If your cat wags his tail while you’re holding him, putting him down keeps you safe.
Keep cats inside as much as you can, or at least close to you or your home. Indoor cats live longer and stay healthier. Outdoor trips should be made in the company of the owner to keep cats safe from the dangers (like infections and attacks) that free-ranging cats face.
Cats’ powerful olfactory abilities mean that they can smell changes in their home. This may cause issues if they have a new bed, scratching post, or food dish. Don’t be upset if the cat does not take to these items immediately. As the new items starts to smell like your house, your cat may give it a try.
If your schedule has changed recently, leaving your cat alone for long periods of time, you may find that your cat will seem lonely or lethargic. Get another cat if you would like to be certain your cat isn’t bored.
You should be proud about caring for your cat. You’re offering your home and love to an animal that desperately needs it. You will develop a bond with your cat that lasts for many years. Take great care of your cat and it will be rewarding.