Cats can at times require extensive grooming. Grooming a cat is not the same as grooming other pets, like dogs. Keeping your cat clean, well-fed and happy will expand their life span. This article contains suggestions on how to groom your cat.
Keep your drapery cords out of the reach of your cat. These can cause your cat to choke if they get a hold of it. This could hurt or kill them. Secure your cords so they are out of the way and out of sight.
Taking your cat to the vet is part of being a responsible pet owner. They need a check-up one time a year, or more if they require certain shots. Cats should see a vet right away if any health problems or injuries needing treatment occur.
Avoid using dog products on cats. If you try to use products meant for dogs, it can make your cat sick, or even kill him. This is particularly true when it comes to flea treatments. When used on your cat, flea products for dogs can be lethal. Keep them separated by at least one door for a few hours after treatment.
It is a good idea to microchip your cat. Even a house cat may end up lost outside, no matter how careful you are. Cat collars are a great thing to have in case your cat gets lost, but they also pose a risk if they get caught on something. Your name and the best way to contact you can be encoded on the chip, which is tiny. The chip will never be lost because it is under the skin and it can easily be read by any shelter or vet.
You should never allow your cat to be bored all the time. Although you may believe that cats just lie around, this isn’t the case. They need their exercise. This is sadly overlooked by some cat owners. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. Give them room to play and a large number of toys. Indoor cats will be happier if you provide them with climbing resources and practical things such as scratching posts.
You should be sure to place your pet’s litter box in a good location. Don’t put it where the cat can’t reach it or near their food. Also be sure that the cat litter area is ventilated so the smell doesn’t linger. You and your cat will greatly appreciate this.
Male cats sometimes have crystals in their urine, but this can be prevented with the right cat food. Your cat will experience considerable pain when he has to pass these crystals, and it’s not an easy (or cheap) problem for your veterinarian to fix. Try to find a cat food that has a low level of magnesium. This means you should pay attention to labels on food. Fish products are usually higher in magnesium.
Why is your cat meowing? After some time, you’ll understand why your cat purs or meows based on what she wants. Your cat could be hungry or thirsty, or it may want to leave the house. Understand your cat’s preferences, and you’ll be that much better off.
Speak to your peers about your cat issues. It can really help to get advice from fellow cat owners. The Internet has many cat forums where you can ask your questions, or simply speak with your vet.
You shouldn’t be training your cats for litter box use. This is something that comes naturally and is not learned. Some thing that rubbing a cats paws in litter is smart, but it can actually cause them mental trauma.
Brush your cat’s fur regularly. Brushing spreads natural oils through the fur and also stimulates circulation. It can also reduce the amount of loose hair they have. Avoid the choking that can be a result of hairballs which slowly build up as your cat grooms himself.
You cat needs to get used to being in a carrier. Cats are not as responsive to punishment as dogs are. They need positive reinforcement. 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. In time, the cat will head inside and be happy. This will make getting the cat inside easier later.
You should feed your cat food out of a can. Food that is dry is cheaper but canned food is better for your cat’s health. The water content is higher, and there is more protein and fat in the canned food. This food is easier to chew for old cat. Go ahead and talk to your vet, but canned food is favorable for cats.
Getting a second cat is usually beneficial to both, but you have to give the two cats a few weeks to get acclimated 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.
Litter Box Somewhere
Try moving your litter box somewhere else if the cat won’t use it. Cats often don’t go to the bathroom when they feel vulnerable, so move the litter box somewhere quiet. 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.
Providing your cat with good grooming will make it shine. Do whatever you can to make sure your cat is happy. Any grooming efforts you take will be appreciated by your cat. You should apply the tips you just read to keep your cat happy and healthy.
