Cats have been a longtime human companion. They’ve been the subject of poems, movies, and even Broadway musicals. A cat is a very intriguing animal but you will be able to form a strong bond with this pet. By reading this article you can learn a few things that can help you to care for your cat.
Make sure your cat is regularly visiting the vet for checkups. Cats need to get shots so they don’t get sick and a vet can help you make sure your cat is okay. If you can, stick with one vet for your cat’s entire life. This way they will know your cat’s history the best.
A heated tile can be positioned beneath the bed of a mature cat. A terra cotta tile about a foot square is ideal. You can warm it with a 15-20 minute stop in your oven, set to approximately 200 degrees. Wrap it up in a towel and place it under where your cat sleeps. If possible, re-heat several times throughout the night.
Dog Products
Do not use dog products on your cat. Cats often have negative reactions to dog products. Flea products for dogs are one of the worst products to give a cat. Products used for flea prevention in dogs can be very harmful to your cat. Actually, it is best to separate the cat from the dog once the flea problem has been treated.
Prevent your cat from chewing on electrical cords by spraying bitter apple on them. If your cat is especially intent on chewing cords, keep them covered as much as possible. You can bundle loose cords into paper towel rolls that are old. Any electrical cords that are really thin (and very tempting) should really be hidden whenever possible.
Think about getting a microchip for your feline friend. Your pet may be an indoor cat, but that doesn’t mean it’ll never dash through your door or slide outside via an open window. Although they provide the information needed to find your beloved pet, they can also accidentally get caught or even be wiggled out of. Microchips are very small, approximately as large as a single grain of rice. Although they are small, they can hold your entire contact information. Most vets and all shelters can scan these chips to get your contact information and there is no risk of losing the chip.
Litter Box
The litter box for your cat needs to be in a good location. Don’t put it close to your cat’s food or in an area that gets too much traffic. Also be sure that the cat litter area is ventilated so the smell doesn’t linger. Your cat is certain to appreciate a litter box that is put into a good location.
If you’re taking a trip with your cat, be sure to protect its ears. You might love blasting your favorite music while driving, but they enjoy softer sounds. Reduce the volume of the music and keep the windows up; let your cat rest!
Think hard before allowing your cat outside. Being outside all the time is not safe for a cat. You cat can get fleas and contract diseases. Additionally, your cat is likely to be injured by cars or other animals. Let your cat go out in your backyard and play on your lawn.
Speak with other cat owners about any issues you may be having. Though you want to handle problems on your own, you may require advice from others who own cats. You can find several cat forums online where you can ask questions, or you can choose to simply call your vet for advice too.
Brush your pet often. This helps spread out the cat’s natural oils in their fur and stimulates blood flow in the skin. It’ll also remove all that loose hair. This can reduce hairballs which can be harmful to a cat and build up in their stomachs.
Your cat should like their carrier. Punishment affects cats differently from dogs. Cats usually respond well to encouragement. Therefore, place your cat’s favorite toy into its career. Leave the carrier open in a location that your cat frequently visits. After some time, your cat will respond better to the carrier. This will make getting the cat inside easier later.
Make sure your cat is always wearing a collar with proper identification tags. This is necessary even for an indoors pet. Cats can slip out a door in a flash. You should use a tag with your contact information and the address of your veterinarian. This will be important especially if you have a cat with medical issues.
Be patient with your pets when you introduce a second cat into your home. There will be an inevitable adjustment period as your two cats get to know each other. In the beginning, they may not seem to get along at all. If you give them enough time though, chances are good they will befriend each other and enjoy the extra company.
Is your cat shedding like a madman? Cats shed considerably; therefore, it is very important you brush them frequently. If your cat sheds a lot, you probably need to brush it more often. This will lessen the amount of hair around your home and it will keep them from getting knots in their hair if they have medium or long hair.
Your cat may feel like the king or queen in your home. By using this advice, you can help your cat learn where the real boss resides. 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.