Cats and humans have lived together for centuries. Talk to any cat owner, and they will be glad to explain why these animals make such great pets. With the provided history, it’s easy to notice why cats feel in charge. The advice below is priceless.
If you have a female cat it is important to have her spayed once she becomes old enough. While your cat may be an indoor one, there is always the possibility it can get out and you wind up with kittens one day. Having your cat spayed helps to control the pet population and will save you time and trouble.
Taking your cat to the vet is part of being a responsible pet owner. They should go at least once yearly for a check-up, and more often if they need any shots. Cats must see their vet right away if they start having health issues, injuries or other problems.
Cats frequently groom themselves. In long-haired cats, hairballs can result from excess grooming. There is a special food on the market that does help out with hairball issues. There are foods on the market for cats that specifically deal with the hairball problems and are good for the cat.
Some male cats get urinary crystals, but this is preventable with proper diet. It can be painful to pass these crystals and your vet bill will be priced accordingly. Look for foods that are low in magnesium for your cat. Be sure that you read the label. Cat food with lots of fish tends to have more magnesium, while products with lots of poultry tend to have less.
Remember to take care of your cat’s ears if you travel with him. You may love loud music, bit it might be bothering your cat. Therefore, try lowering your music or turning it off in order for your cat to enjoy the trip more.
Discuss any issues you have with your pet with others. Although you may want to go it alone, it can be helpful to seek advice from other people that have experience owning cats. Participate in online discussion boards for cat owners, or pick up the telephone and speak with your vet.
You don’t want to punish a cat if they do their business outside of their litter box. Many times this occurs because the box wasn’t well maintained. If your punish your car, he or she is just going to become scared of you.
Acclimate your cat to a cat carrier. Punishment affects cats differently from dogs. Instead, cats are more likely to respond to words of encouragement. Put the carrier in a comfortable place and fill it with treats and toys. Over time the cat will not be stressed about the carrier and will enter it voluntarily. This will make getting the cat inside easier later.
If your cat uses the bathroom more than normal, or if they suddenly stop using the litter box, think about taking them to the veterinarian. This behavior may be indicative of an infection of the urinary tract or some other issue. A potentially serious illness may be able to be treated by inexpensive antibiotics.
Do you feel like everywhere you turn you are surrounded by your cats hair? Cats are big shedders, so you should brush them frequently. If your cat sheds often, you will need to brush him more often. This will help to prevent tangling and matting.
Litter Box
Pay attention to your cat’s litter box habits. If it stops using the box, medical problems could be to blame. There are a number of health conditions that can make your kitty urinate and go to the bathroom in places other than the litter box. These problems are generally related to the kidneys and/or bladder. If your cat stops using the litter box suddenly, get him to a vet for a visit.
It is important to designate a big and comfortable area for your cat to deliver her kittens. You need to be patient, as it will be three or four hours before all the kittens have been born. If more than five or six hours have passed, and you think that kittens still remain inside, then you must get in touch with your vet.
If kitty won’t use the litter box, try moving it. Cats feel vulnerable when relieving themselves, so make sure the litter box is in a secluded spot. Some great examples of such locations are basements, laundry rooms or any other less frequently used room in your home.
Dogs wag their tails frequently when they are happy or excited to see their owners. Cats wag their tail as well, but have different reasons psychologically. If your cats tail is wagging, it could indicate that the animal is facing a fight-or-flight situation. It also suggests possible conflict or uncertainty. If this happens while your cat is in your arms, put him down as soon as possible.
Your cat may think it rules your household, and may even think it rules the universe. However, if you use the tips provided, they will soon learn who is really in charge. One of the reasons cats are such a popular pet is because they’re so rewarding, and the tips above will help you get more out of your relationship with yours.