Cats can make totally delightful pets, if you know the proper care techniques. If you wish to keep a cat as a pet, it is imperative that you know how to properly care for this feline friend. Keep reading for some great tips every cat owner should know about.
Check-ups are an absolute must for any pet cat. The vet will be able to provide your cat with needed vaccinations and any medications it requires. Veterinarians also keep tabs on your cat’s overall health and diagnose any problems they find. Try to stay with the same veterinarian throughout your pet’s life. This one vet will be aware of the cat’s history.
Your cat’s claws can wreck havoc on your furniture. If you find your cat tearing up things around your home, buy a scratching post or cat tower. Entice them to scratch those items rather than your belongings. This approach takes time, but it usually works.
Cats are often nocturnal creatures. They get very active at night. Keep your bedroom door shut if your cats make too much noise at night. This will ensure they don’t pounce on you at nighttime, or wake you up in other ways.
You will often find ways to save money on medication for your cat on the Internet instead of getting it from your vet. There are some times when this isn’t a good idea, like when you’re dealing with a pet related emergency. Most of the time, you will get great discounts if you purchase on the web.
Little kids shouldn’t be left alone near cats. Spend time instructing your children on cat care. Show them how to gently pick kitty up and what kinds of activities are appropriate. Cats should be handled more gently since their bones are more fragile than those of dogs.
Be careful when leaving your cat with your children. Up until your child is five, children shouldn’t be alone with your pet. Their immaturity prevents them from understanding how easily they could hurt the kitten. Once the child grows up a little, he might be more able to handle the kitten.
Cats enjoy high places. To keep your cat healthy, provide your cat with a high place to sit. Placing a shelf or two up high will not take up too much space in your home. To make it really special, put a bed or blanket up there too.
Cats do not need to be taught how they should use the cat litter box. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.
Your cat should be acclimated to a carrier as a kitten. Cats are not as responsive to punishment as dogs are. They need positive reinforcement. Put a favorite blanket and toy in the carrier and leave it open somewhere the cat frequents. After some time, your cat will respond better to the carrier. It will then be easier to transport the cat in the carrier.
Cats are great pets, but they need proper care. If you’re going to own a cat and be responsible about it you should reread this article and use the information that is in it. With good, solid practices and lots of love, you can have a truly happy cat that lives a long life.