If you own a cat, or want one, you know how special they are. That’s why you need to do what you can to keep them safe from harmful things like fleas and parasites. These organisms can be detrimental to your cat’s health. The following techniques and tips can help you take care of your cat efficiently.
Have your cat chipped so you can find him if he runs away. Even indoor cats can decide to run away at a moment’s notice, escaping through an open window. 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. Your name and the best way to contact you can be encoded on the chip, which is tiny. 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.
It is likely that your feline friend enjoys grooming his fur. When your cat’s coat is long, it can result in hairballs. There is a special food on the market that does help out with hairball issues. Some cat food brands have formulations to prevent or reduce hairballs, which will make life easier for your cat and you.
Remember to take care of your cat’s ears if you travel with him. You cat is used to being at home and it might shock him to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. To ensure your cat’s trip is pleasant, turn off the music or keep the volume low.
Set a tablecloth under your cat’s food bowl. A lot of time cats will take their food from their bowls to eat it on the food bowl’s side. If this happens, you’ll have to clear away any excess food that’s left outside. Something as simple as a place mat can help make cleanup easier.
If your cat constantly meows, you need to try to figure out why. The more time you spend with your cat, the better you’ll understand what its meows mean. She may be hungry, or she may want you to let her outside. Make sure you are paying attention in order to better understand your cat.
Cats enjoy heights. For very happy cats, give them a safe place where they can look around at their surroundings. If a cat tower is not ideal, a simple shelf that does not have any breakable items can work. You can even lay down a blanket to give your kitty some comfort.
If your cat does not use the litter box, do not use punishments to try to discipline him. They’re doing it because the box is too dirty, or they may be sick. Punishment can make your cat fearful in your presence.
To help avoid a finicky cat, feed your cat different brands of cat food. If your cat only eats one brand of cat food from the beginning, he will probably not like any other brand.
Animal Protein
Don’t buy cheap cat food. Check out the list of ingredients of any food you are considering buying. Ensure that an animal protein source, including fish, chicken, or beef, is the main ingredient. 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 it is important for them to get enough animal protein in their diet.
If you plan to add a second cat to your household, be sure to allow two to three weeks for your resident cat and the new cat to get used to each other. In the early days, you may see a lot of posturing from the cats including hissing and swatting at each other. Eventually, they become used to each other and are comfortable together.
Make sure play time is an important part of your cat’s life. Actually playtime is very common for all animals, especially cats and people despite their age. Older cats might not be quite as energetic as they used to be, but light play can still be fun for them. Enjoy some playtime with your cat.
Litter Box
If your cat stops using the litter box suddenly, take note. Some feline health problems may cause your cat to refuse to use their litter box. Issues like a kidney infection are often behind such behaviors. You should take your cat to the vet if you think there is something wrong with your pet.
If you have a female cat that is in the process of giving birth, make sure you provide her a spacious area. Understand that a female cat will require three or four hours in order to give birth to every kitten. When six hours passes, get to the vet immediately.
With dogs, tail wagging is a sign they’re in a good mood, or glad their owners are around. Cats wag their tails for very different reasons than dogs though. Tail-wagging is usually a sign that your cat is considering attacking or fleeing. If you are petting your cat and its tail begins to wag vigorously, stay away from the cat. It may be ready to attack you.
Your cat, along with every other living cat, is susceptible to many different parasites. Parasites will remain with your cat until taken care of. Use some of the solid ideas in the article above to make sure your pet cat stays healthy. Your cat is going to be pleased you did so.