If you’re not used to cats because you’ve never had one, then you need to learn a few things first. In most cities, a massive feline population exists split evenly between feral outdoors cats and well-kept household pets. Getting to know a cat’s needs and taking great care of it can help your cat to have a fantastic life.
Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Shelters are overflowing with wonderful cats, and the adoption fee usually covers essential 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.
An outdoor cat must always wear a tag on its collar. Cats can roam far, so a tag will ensure you find them quickly when they’re lost. The tag should have at least the pet’s name and the number where you can be reached.
Scratching Post
A cat’s claws can do significant damage to your home and belongings. If you find your cat tearing up things around your home, buy a scratching post or cat tower. Redirect your cat to the scratching post when they start to go after your furniture. Catnip can be put in the posts or on the tower to help train the cat to use it. It might take a little while, but eventually it should stop the problem.
Location is key when placing a litter box. Try to keep it away from areas of household traffic and away from your cat’s eating areas. To prevent a strong stench, be sure this space is well-ventilated. Your cat will be more comfortable and you will too.
Your cat most likely spends quite a bit of time grooming. Long-haired cats often develop hairballs. Special food can help. Certain cat foods are formulated to lower the amount of hairballs.
Male felines tend to get crystals in the urine that can be prevented with proper diet. Passing these crystals is painful and the vet bill to have this corrected is expensive. Make sure your cat’s food is not high in magnesium. Go over the label carefully. Avoid fish products.
Cats are great family pets, but small children might be too rough. Guide your kids in handling a feline. Teach them what are appropriate activities and how to gently touch it. Because cats are more delicate than dogs, they need to be handled more carefully.
It is important that your cat always where a collar that identifies them. Even if yours is an indoor cat, this is still an important safety measure. Cats are naturally curious and a door or window that’s open invites exploration. The tag your cat wears should display your number and your veterinarian’s information. Veterinary information is essential if your cat needs medication.
If your cat is urinating a lot or in areas away from the litter box, they may need to see the vet. This may be a symptom of an infection of the urinary tract or another health problem in your cat. Affordable antibiotics can quickly resolve the problem.
It should now be possible for you to come out of your house and fight any stray cats that are trying to invade your yard. Cats can get unruly and ruin many things we love. Obviously, cats are living beings and you should always be considerate to the extent that is safe for you. Who knows, there could even be a feral cat out there that steals your heart!