Cats are fascinating animals and make great pets. They are independent, so they do not require you to supervise them 24/7. The tips below will ensure your cat is as happy as it can be.
If your cat is female, you need to get it spayed at the proper age. This is true even if you think your cat is indoors only. One escape can lead to a lot of small kittens around! Having your cat spayed is the only way to 100 percent prevent accidental litters.
Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. Cats usually react negatively to items made especially for dogs. This happens a lot with flea products. Your cat can die when exposed to flea prevention items made for dogs. Keep your cat away from your puppy after treating it with some flea products.
If your cat goes outside, it is important to have a collar with a tag. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost. The tag should have at least the pet’s name and the number where you can be reached.
Spritz a little bitter apple on electrical cords to protect your cats. Cats who love to chew need to be kept away from cords. Any loose cords should be bundled up and placed in things like paper towel rolls. Electronic items with thin, tempting cords should always be put away when not in use.
Think about putting a microchip in your pet. You never know when your cat could get away from you. 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 tiny and contain all your contact information. The majority of veterinarians possess scanners that can read your chips. Because these chips are placed underneath your cat’s skin, they won’t get lost.
Make sure your cat is not too bored. Every cat needs exercise time and play! But many cat owners ignore that need. Bored cats can suffer from depression, extreme compulsive disorders, and other harmful issues that can negatively impact their overall health and well-being. Give them time and space where they can exercise and toys they can play with. If you have an indoor cat, offer him a variety of toys, scratching post or objects he can climb on.
Cats are nocturnal animals. Because of this, night time is when they are most active. If your cats keep you up late at night, you should close the bedroom door. This can keep them from waking you up at night and from pouncing on feet under the blankets.
Keep smaller children away from pets as they are typically too aggressive. Teach your kid how to properly handle a cat. Show them how to gently pick kitty up and what kinds of activities are appropriate. Cats don’t have strong bones like dogs do, so they need to be treated gently.
Brush your cat regularly. This keeps the fur well oiled and the skin healthy. It also loosens hair that is about ready to fall out. This prevents hairballs, which can cause choking, and builds up in the cat’s stomach from self grooming.
Purchase a drinking fountain for your cat. A cat will always drink from running water if possible. Streams of water will attract your cat. Actually, certain cats like to drink right from the sink faucet as it runs. A fountain will allow your cat to drink like he or she is in the wild.
Litter Box
Pay attention if your cat won’t use their litter box. Some feline health problems may cause your cat to refuse to use their litter box. These problems are generally related to the kidneys and/or bladder. Call your veterinarian right away if your cat doesn’t use the litter box.
If you have a pregnant cat ready to birth her babies, be sure she has enough space. Delivery can take between three and four hours. If it’s been over 6 hours and you think there are more kittens inside, they need to see a vet immediately.
Outfit your cat with a tag and collar containing your address, phone number, and name. Even if they’re an indoor cat, they may get out. If your cat does get out, make sure that it can get home.
Avoid any products containing phenol around your cats. Lysol, for example, has many harmful agents that can harm your cat. These chemicals can have a devastating impact on your cat’s liver.
Your cat should remain indoors and near your home. Indoor cats typically live longer than those who live outside. While cats can get their exercise roaming the neighborhood and squaring off against other cats, they can also get diseases and injuries this way. Vigorous indoor play with an owner is a preferable way to get exercise.
Don’t ever declaw cats that go outdoors. Without claws, your cat is essentially defenseless against other animals. This is a dangerous situation for the cat. Cats that are declawed should be indoor cats only. If you do decide to declaw your indoor cat, do not remove the back claws. Keep the back claws intact, since they can’t do damage to your furnishings and flooring.
Cats make great companion animals because they are smart, cuddly and curious. However, you must know how to properly care for them. Use the above tips to become a great cat owner. As a result, your cat will live a happier, healthier life.
