If you were able to save a pet’s life, would this be something you’d do? Many cats are available for those who can offer a loving home. Simply bring one home, make a friend for the rest of the cat’s life, and use the advice in this article.
Cats can get into even the tiniest of spaces. If they are wearing a collar this can pose a safety risk, in the event that your cat gets stuck. Breakaway collars will “break” if they’re pulled too tight. A collar like this could save your cat’s life.
If your cat is a female, it needs to be spayed when it reaches the appropriate age. It is best to spay your cat, even if you want to keep it as an indoor pet. Your best bet is to have your female cat spayed.
Ensure that your cat goes to the vet often so that they are healthy. A routine check-up should happen annually, and more often if necessary shots are due. Cats should go to a vet immediately if they have any conditions, health problems, or injuries that need to be tended to right away.
Make sure your cat is out of harms way by putting a little bitter apple on all the electrical cords to avoid them getting shocked. If your cat still insists on chewing your cords, try to cover as many of them as possible. You can do this by bundling them and tucking them in the cardboard rolls that are used for paper towels. All thin cords should be put up when you’re not using them.
Male cats sometimes have crystals in their urine, but this can be prevented with the right cat food. Passing stones or crystals hurts and can cost you a ton in vet bills if they don’t come out naturally. Make sure your cat’s food is not high in magnesium. Take a look at the food’s label. Fish is often high in magnesium compared to chicken.
You can often find better deals for cat medicine online rather than buying them from the veterinarian. In emergency situations, buying online may not be a good option. But, for routine medications, this can be a budget-saver.
Avoid leaving a kitten alone with small children. Up until your child is five, children shouldn’t be alone with your pet. Most of them simply aren’t mature enough to grasp the concept of danger to themselves or the animal. When children are over the age of five, then you should decide whether or not they are mature enough to handle a kitten.
Never punish a cat for a mess outside of its box. They’re doing it because the box is too dirty, or they may be sick. Punishments given to the cat will just make him or her less willing to be around its owner going forward.
Ensure that your cat wears a collar and identification tags at all times. This is necessary even for an indoors pet. Cats love to explore, and if they see an opportunity to go outside, they will take it. Include your vet’s info as well as your own on the tags. This will be important especially if you have a cat with medical issues.
If you wish to add another cat to your home, give it a couple weeks for your old cat and your new cat to grow accustomed to each other. They may still hiss and growl when they are in the same room together. Give them a bit more time to begin to get used to each other face to face, too.
It’s important for your cat to get plenty of playtime. Play is necessary for all mammals no matter the age or species. Older cats might not be quite as energetic as they used to be, but light play can still be fun for them. Take time and play with your cat regularly.
Long haired cats take extra grooming time, so think about that before choosing one. All that hair will be literally everywhere. Unless you’re committed to taking care of the furry mess, avoid getting cat with long hair. More, and longer hair, usually means more hairballs too.
Is your cat shedding like a madman? Since cats shed so much, you must remember to brush them regularly. The more hair you see on the ground, the more you should pull out the brush. This will ensure your cat’s coat is tangle-free and not matted.
It is important to designate a big and comfortable area for your cat to deliver her kittens. Labor can last as long as four hours, so stay patient. When six hours passes, get to the vet immediately.
Put a collar around your cats neck that contains your name, address, and number. Even if they’re an indoor cat, they may get out. Do everything possible to make sure your cat is returned safely to you in the event it gets out.
Caring for a kitty is something that is enjoyable and rewarding. Opening your home to someone in need is a selfless act, whether it is a person or an animal. The bonds that you form with your cat will last a lifetime. Take great care of your cat and it will be rewarding.
