Although cat ownership is often delightful, it also comes with its share of challenges! Some need special diets, and that is only the beginning. The information below will help you raise a happy and healthy feline friend.
When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care. When adopting a shelter cat, you’re saving a life and aiding in controlling the cat population.
If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. A terra cotta tile heated in your oven on about 200 degrees and for 15 minutes will do. Wrap it in an old towel and put it under your cat’s bed or blanket. You can even switch it out every few hours.
Don’t use dog portions for your cat. Your cat will have a bad reaction to anything that has been specifically formulated for a dog. This is particularly true when it comes to flea treatments. Flea products that are intended for a dog can kill a cat. Actually, it is best to separate the cat from the dog once the flea problem has been treated.
Lessen the chances of your cat becoming harmed or killed by spraying all electric cords with something to keep them from chewing it. Bitter apple is a good choice and can be found at most pet stores. If your cat still insists on chewing your cords, try to cover as many of them as possible. The tube from a used-up roll of paper towels makes an excellent shield for loose cords. Put your electronics away so your cat is not tempted to chew on the cords.
Do not allow your cat to stay bored all of the time. Cats should have a lot of exercise and playtime. Too many cat owners forget this simple fact. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. You need to give it new toys regularly and make sure your cat has plenty of space to run and play. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.
Crystals form in urine from male cats. This can be prevented with good food choices. The cat is in pain passing the crystals, and the correction for this is costly. Keep your cat’s diet low in levels of magnesium. Consult the ingredient list. Fish products tend to be higher in magnesium than poultry products.
Cats are great family pets, but small children might be too rough. Tell them how to be gentle. Teach them which activities are good and how to properly pick your cat up. Cats have weaker bones than dogs and need more gentle treatment.
Create a little tablecloth for your cat. Cats often take food from their bowls to eat on the side. This creates extra work since you must then clean up the leftover loose food. To make clean up a breeze, use a place mat underneath the bowl or a piece of fabric. You’ll be able to pick it up easily and shake the excess food into the trash.
If your thinking about allowing your cat to go outside, you may want to reconsider. Being outside all the time is not safe for a cat. Your cat may get fleas or have other problems. There’s the chance that your pet could be harmed by other animals or passing vehicles. When your cats go outside, keep an eye out to make sure they do not wander too far away.
Make sure you are cautious about leaving a young child alone with a small kitten. A child under five should not be left alone with a pet. They are just not mature enough to understand the danger they can pose for the kitten. As they grow, you will be able to decide when it is the right time for them to handle a cat or kitten without supervision.
Don’t buy cheap cat food. Look at the ingredients and make sure protein like fish, chicken, or beef is near the top. If the food uses fillers like corn and other things that are not protein, that’s not a sign of the good nutrition a cat needs. This type of food should be avoided. Cats are carnivores, so if you want them to be as healthy as possible, you need to be sure they’re eating enough animal protein.
Litter Box
Be aware of your cat stopping their litter box usage. Many feline health conditions can cause a cat to urinate and defecate in random places outside of their litter box. If your cat is not using the litter, kidney or bladder problems and infections may be the problem. If your pet stops using the litter box then see your veterinarian.
Looking after a cat is a lot of work, but you will also find that owning a cat is a very rewarding experience. Use what you’ve just learned to make wise cat care decisions. Your research is going to pay off in the long run.