Would you save the life of an animal if you could? Consider all the homeless cats in shelters or feral colonies that are in desperate need of homes. When you plan to adopt one, read this article to learn how to care for it.
Check your local animal shelter if you have plans to get a cat. There are so many great cats at shelters. The fee you will have to pay typically includes vet care. When you bring home a shelter cat, you will be saving its life and you will be doing your part to help out.
Make sure your cat is always well groomed. Regular combing and brushing is usually all that is required. Doing this frequently can help them keep their coat clean. This will also cut down on shedding and can reduce issues with hairballs. Keep your cat looking at its best by grooming it well.
Regular veterinary checkups are important for the health of your cat. There are shots and vaccinations that are standard and necessary for your cat. Always use the same veterinarian if possible. They will learn your cat’s history best.
A heated tile for underneath your cat’s bed can provide real comfort. Place a tile made of terra cotta or a similar material in an oven heated to 200 degrees for around 15 to 20 minutes. Wrap it up in a towel and place it under where your cat sleeps. Change every few hours if you like.
Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If you find your cat shredding your furniture, consider purchasing a scratching post or cat tower. Use catnip or other scents that are attractive to your kitty to encourage him to go there. It might take a little while, but eventually it should stop the problem.
It’s not easy convincing your pet that the kitchen counter is a no-cats zone. They love to be able to look around from up high. One way to deal with this issue could be to devote certain high spaces for your feline friend to sit in. Placing a cat tower by the kitchen can keep cats from getting on counters.
Make sure your cat gets lots of love. Cats are looking for a response in kind in exchange for all of the friendly companionship they offer to humans. Like many people, cats need to socialize with people so that they feel like they are an important part of their family’s lives. They want to feel like a contented and satisfied member of the family.
Sometimes children get too excited when playing with a new cat and may mishandle them. Always train your child the proper way to handle a pet. Children need to know how to hold a cat and what sorts of play a cat likes. Cats have more fragile bones than dogs so it is important to treat them with care.
Try figuring out why the cat is purring. By paying attention, you should eventually learn why your cat is meowing. She could be signaling that she is hungry, or she might want to go outside. You’ll learn her cues quickly.
Is your home also the home of both a dog and cat? Dogs often take advantage of dining on the cat’s food. You should create a feeding space for the cat that is much too high for a dog to get to. This will also prevent squabbles between them.
Do not punish your cat if they make a mess in the area outside of the litter box. Usually, this sort of thing happens when the box isn’t being tended to properly. Punishment can make your cat fearful in your presence.
Feed your cat a few different varieties of food. This can help him not get too finicky. If they eat the same food all the time without changing it, that may be the only one they’ll eat later on.
Drinking Fountain
Get a drinking fountain for your cat. Your cat will prefer drinking from running water since this is a natural behavior. They are more likely to get plenty of water when it is running. You may have noticed that a dripping sink faucet quickly attracts their attention. So a drinking fountain makes a smart investment that’s both environmentally friendly and loved by your feline.
If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box, you should take him to the vet. Many cats develop these behaviors in response to a health problem, such as urinary tract infections. In many cases, cheap antibiotics will resolve the problem and keep your cat healthy.
Long-haired cats require more care than their short-haired comrades. All that hair will be literally everywhere. Only choose a cat with long hair if you can clean up after it consistently. You should keep in mind that long haired cats are more prone to hairballs.
Your feline friend should always wear a collar and tags with your name and contact information. Even an indoor cat can get out. Don’t take any chances; make sure your pet has the proper identification so he is returned to you.
Cats do best on a diet high in dry food. Kittens need wet food due to the size of their teeth. When they get older, their teeth benefit from harder dry foods. For those cats who are picky eaters, a mixture of both dry and wet food usually does the trick.
You should be proud that you are giving love to a cat. You’re making a conscious decision to love an animal and provide it with the care that it needs to survive. You and your cat will form a bond that will last as long as you both will live. Take care of your cat and your cat will take care of you.