Cats are usually hard to please. When you first get them, they can seem very mysterious. However, with the right knowledge, you can easily take proper care of them and ensure their happiness. Here are some tips to make sure your feline friend gets the care he needs.
If you are planning to get a pet cat, be sure to check with your local shelter. Many shelters have more cats than they can handle and the fees associated with adoption take care of vet visits. Rescuing a cat can end up making a big difference in both of your lives.
Groom your cat. Just like dogs, cats require regular brushing and de-tangling. Brushing rids your cat’s coat of dirt and helps keep them clean. In addition, it helps decrease shedding, which results in less hairballs. A cat that is well-groomed is one that looks the best at home.
If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. Cats can get lost, and they need a tag to be found. Ensure that you at least put the name of your cat and your personal phone number on this tag.
Think about putting a microchip in your pet. Even cats who live completely indoors may someday decide to bolt out the door or escape out of a window. Other measures like tags and collars are better than nothing, but your cat may wriggle out of them or they may be torn off by outdoor hazards. Microchips are minuscule, but can hold all the essential information about your cat and its hope. Almost every vet and shelter has a scanner these days, and they can retrieve your contact information should they find your pet.
Keep your cat away from boredom. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. Unfortunately there are too many cat owners who don’t properly exercise their cats. 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. A scratching post is a valuable toy to put in your home.
Cats appreciate all the affection you can give. They usually offer us warm companionship, and they require the same. Cats have a need to communicate with others to show they are part of the family. They want to feel like a valuable, happy family member, too.
If you are traveling with a cat in tow, be aware of the noises in your car. You may think it’s a good idea to listen to loud music on your stereo, but cats generally don’t enjoy this. Therefore, keep your music or other sounds at an acceptable level.
Do you own both a dog and a cat? A dog may enjoy eating your cat’s food when he has the chance to do so. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. Separate eating spaces are a must to avoid fights between your pets.
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. They may hide from one another, hiss, or even swat each other. After a bit of time, you’ll have two cats that will tolerate, and possibly enjoy, each other.
Play is something that all cats need to do. Playing is a very common activity shared by most animals. Though older cats don’t have as much energy, they still need some play. Play with your cat, and you’ll both have fun.
Think about how much extra care is entailed in bringing a long-haired cat into your home. Although it may look nice, it will look much worse when it sheds all over your home. Unless you have time to dedicate to cleaning up their fur, don’t get long haired cats. Additionally, consider that longer-haired cats are more likely to have issues with hairballs.
Litter Box
Think carefully about where you put the litter box for your cat. Many cat owners feel inclined to hide the litter box. The litter box should be somewhere that is easy for your cat to get to, however. Your cat will use the litter box if it is placed in a quiet place and away from smells your cat does not enjoy. If you keep the litter box on a cold cement floor, put a mat or rug down underneath it.
If your cat’s about to have kittens, create a spacious area in which she can do so. Giving birth to all the kittens can take hours, so you shouldn’t expect things to be over and done with quickly. If, after six hours, you think there are still kittens stuck inside your pet, a trip to the vet is in order.
Put a collar around your cat’s neck. Make sure it has your address, phone number and name. Even if your cat lives in the house, he could always get out. Do everything possible to make sure your cat is returned safely to you in the event it gets out.
Don’t ever let your declawed cat outdoors. The cat will have difficulty playing with other animals and may get hurt. Indoor cats are the only ones that may be declawed. The front claws should be the only ones removed. The back claws should remain as they will not scratch furniture or floors.
The advice above will aid you in caring for your cat. Take advantage of what you’ve learned so that you’ll be certain your pet has all that it needs. Your cat will be in better health and much happier if you are a good pet owner. Follow these tips for your best chance of success.