When it comes to owning a great pet, you can’t go wrong with a cat. If you have never had one, you should read this article before getting one. Get some valuable insights about how to bond with your new cat and create a healthy environment for everyone.
Properly groom your cat. Cats need to be combed or brushed regularly. This helps them keep their precious coat properly clean at all times. Doing this will also help alleviate hairballs and excessive shedding. A well groomed cat will be much more pleasant for everyone and will also help you keep your home clean.
Take your cat to the vet every year. Your cat needs to get a checkup about once every year, or more if there are issues that come up. Cats must see their vet right away if they start having health issues, injuries or other problems.
Don’t try using dog food or products for your cat. Cats don’t like dog products. Flea products should not be used on cats in any circumstance. Some products designed for dogs could be harmful to your cat. If you treat your dog for fleas, make sure you keep the cat away for several hours following the application.
A lot of cat owners have a hard time keeping their cats off the counter. After all, cats prefer to stay high so that they can keep an eye out on everything. To help prevent your cat from doing this, you can establish tall places specifically for your cat. Keep your cats off the kitchen counter by placing their towers near the kitchen or even in it.
Most cats are nocturnal. Thus, the bulk of their activity will occur at night. If your kittens are keeping you awake into the middle of the night, close the door to your bedroom. It also protects your toes from those crafty midnight pounces.
Location is key when placing a litter box. The box should be out of the high traffic areas and a good distance from where your cat eats. Put it in a ventilated area to reduce odors. Your cat and you will appreciate it.
When you get a kitten for kids, you have to set up a few rules first. Let your children know which areas of the house are off-limits for the cat. If you plan to raise an indoor cat, let your children know that the cat cannot go outside. Make sure your children understand the rules from the get go.
Avoid leaving a kitten alone with small children. A child under five should not be left alone with a pet. They aren’t mature enough in order to handle the potential dangers of a kitten. As they grow, you will be able to decide when it is the right time for them to handle a cat or kitten without supervision.
Talk to others when you have a problem with your cat. Although you may want to go it alone, it can be helpful to seek advice from other people that have experience owning cats. There are many online cat forums that will help you get questions answered. You could also try asking your vet.
Take time to train your cat to go into a car carrier. Cats never respond to punishment the way that dogs do. Encouragement is a much better strategy. Put the carrier in a comfortable place and fill it with treats and toys. Over time, the cat will feel comfortable and go inside the carrier. Let it happen naturally or with only mild coaxing. Do not get angry. As the cat becomes used to being in the carrier, it will become easier to transport them in it.
Long-haired breeds are pretty, but understand how much work they are before you get one. Even though that nice coat of beautiful silky fur looks great, it can leave a mess on your floors, furniture and clothing. Don’t get such a cat unless you are prepared for the extra commitment they take over regular cats. Long-haired cats usually suffer from hairball problems too.
Is there cat hair all over every surface in your home? Cats shed a ton, so they must be brushed frequently. If your cat is shedding too often, you should brush it more regularly. This will help to prevent tangling and matting.
If your cat is refusing to use his litter box, you should try putting it in a different location. Cat’s sometimes just don’t like the location you’ve picked for the box. Basements, laundry rooms and other quiet spots are best.
Put a collar on the cat that lists your name, address, and phone number on it. Even if you own an indoor cat, it’s possible he or she might escape. Do everything possible to make sure your cat is returned safely to you in the event it gets out.
Be aware of any panting. Panting is a normal thing in dogs. Cats often pant when they are anxious or overheated, but this may also signal a more serious issue. Take the cat to a veterinarian, especially if they’ve experienced previous breathing problems.
Choosing a cat is an excellent decision. They can really be comforting. In order to make your cat’s life (and your time as a cat owner) happy and healthy, you have to be prepared to be a responsible owner. Be sure to use the advice above so that you and your cat can coexist for years and years.
