As pets, cats are always a great choice, except that they can get a little pricey. Vet bills, toys, food, and cat litter costs can make anyone reconsider owning cats. This article has ideas you can use to make living with a cat cheaper and easier.
Cats often view small spaces as a fun challenge. Collars can be a safety risk if your kitty gets stuck. Breakaway collars are made to come off if tugged on vigorously. This could help save your cat if it gets caught in a tight spot.
If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. Use a 12″ terra cotta tile and heat it by putting it in a 200ºF oven for 20 minutes. Wrap the tile in a towel and then put it under the bed. Change it every couple of hours if desired.
Take your cat to the vet every year. They need a routine check-up every year, maybe more of important shots are necessary. Cats should go to a vet immediately if they have any conditions, health problems, or injuries that need to be tended to right away.
Do not use dog products on your cat. Cats will react very negatively to any products intended for dogs. Be very careful with the flea products you use. These products can be fatal for your cat. Your cat needs to be away from the dog after your dog has received a flea treatment.
Deter your cat from chewing on inappropriate things by using bitter apple. If your cat still insists on chewing your cords, try to cover as many of them as possible. You can bundle loose cords together and place them inside paper towel rolls. Cats are drawn to wires and cords, so you should keep them out of sight and out of mind if they are not being used.
Litter Box
You should be sure to place your pet’s litter box in a good location. Put the litter box in a secluded area, and make sure that it is not near the cat’s food. To help control odors place the litter box in a well ventilated area. Both you and your cat will be happier.
Male felines tend to get crystals in the urine that can be prevented with proper diet. This problem is painful for the cat and to your wallet, as well. To stop this from happening, make sure your cat’s food doesn’t have much magnesium in it. Read the labels. Fish usually has more magnesium than poultry.
Set boundaries for your children when it comes to having a cat as a pet. Let them know which rooms and areas your cats should not be in. If you’re planning to have an indoor cat, explain to your children that the cat is not allowed to be outside. It’s important to remind them as often as necessary, and when you plan ahead of time to teach your children, you will less likely to have issues.
You should try your hardest to figure out the reason that you are hearing your cat meow. After a while, you’ll start to recognize what some of the noises your cats makes mean. The cat might want something to eat, or just to go outside. By listening to your cat, it will be easier to know what they want.
Seek the advice of others if you have a cat that’s giving you problems. Although you may feel like you don’t need help, other owners may be able to give you good advice. Use the Internet to share tips with other cat owners and ask your questions or talk with your neighbors, friends or veterinarian.
Acclimate your cat to its carrier. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Instead, cats are more likely to respond to words of encouragement. Place a loved blanket and favorite toy into a carrier and then leave the door open. Make sure it’s in an area that the cat frequents. The cat will eventually get into it and feel comfy. This makes transporting much easier.
Don’t toss an older scratching post just because it looks worn. Cats prefer used scratching posts. Cats may well try scratching something else entirely (like your furniture!) if you replace their beloved toy with something unfamiliar.
A cat’s life isn’t complete without play. In fact, play is a common activity for all mammals, including people and cats, no matter their age. Kitties who are senior citizens may not be super energetic, but they still enjoy playing. Make an effort to have playtime with your cat regularly.
The best way to make sure that you have a healthy cat is to keep up to date with vaccinations and trips to the vet. Cats need to have vaccines and check-ups just like children. This can help to prevent diseases. Your cat is a family member, so treat them like anyone else you love in your home.
Relocating the litter box can often help curb a problem with cats that refuse to use it. Cat’s sometimes just don’t like the location you’ve picked for the box. Some good places would be basements, laundry rooms, and any other place that doesn’t have a lot of noise and people going in and out.
Caring for any pet properly involves a fair amount of effort, and cats are certainly included. Cats generally need a lot of care which can be considered similar to caring for a child. As you’ve seen here, your cat expenditures can be reduced while still allowing you to take good care of your cat.