Cats are very interesting animals and you will love yours right away if you decide to adopt one. Owning a cat is a challenge, however. There are special needs that a cat owner should be aware of, even if they have had other pets. Cats are not the same as other animals. Read this article and follow the suggestions it contains.
Contact local shelters if you want to adopt a cat. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care. A cat gets a new chance at life and the cat population stays in check with adoption.
Cats love to get into tight, small spaces. Cats that wear collars are at risk should they become stuck somewhere cramped. The advantage to a breakaway type collar is that if enough pressure is put on it, it will just let go rather than strangle the cat. That’ll keep kitty safe.
Put a heated tile beneath the bed of an older cat. You can heat a terracotta tile in the oven at 200 degrees for about 15-20 minutes. Put the tile inside a towel and place it under the cat’s bedding. When the tile cools down, change it out for a fresh, warm one.
Take your cat to the vet every year. Cats need routine shots and wellness checks just like people. Don’t hesitate to take your cat to the vet immediately if you notice anything unusual about their health or if they are injured.
Tell your kids what the rules are about your new kitten. Let your kids know which rooms your cat is allowed in. If you want the cat to be an inside cat, let the children know he cannot go outdoors. By making the rules well known to your children, your children will understand what is and is not allowed.
Try to figure out why your cat makes meowing sounds. Once you become familiar with your cat and its needs, it will become easier to determine what he needs when he meows. She could be trying to tell you she’s hungry or needs to go outside. Watch their cues to learn more about them.
Never make the mistake of leaving a kitten in a room alone with small children. Younger children, especially under 5, cannot be left alone with your cat. The maturity level isn’t there when it comes to your child. Wait until your child gets older, and pay close attention to whether or not they’re mature enough to hold or handle a tiny pet.
Cats love heights. Your cat will be truly happy if you provide a place for him to view his surroundings. If you don’t want a large cat tree in your home, a sturdy shelf cleared of breakables will work in a pinch. The cat will especially enjoy it if you put a blanket on top.
Buy your cat a fountain to drink from. When cats are in the wild they tend to prefer water that is running when they are thirsty, this applies to cats at home. Cats will respond more positively to streams of water. Running sink water is another alternative that you can use. A fountain will allow your cat to drink like he or she is in the wild.
Feed canned food to your cat. Although dry food is usually less expensive, canned food is better for your cat. The water content is higher, and there is more protein and fat in the canned food. Aging cats will find it easier to chew. Speak with your vet, however generally speaking, canned cat food is better for your cat.
If your cat begins defecating or urinating too frequently, it’s time to see the vet. It could be an indication of a serious health problem. Affordable antibiotics can solve concerns that may otherwise be quite serious.
Help your cat live a longer life by keeping them healthy and keeping them current with check-ups and vaccinations. Kittens, like children, need to have their vaccinations and wellness appointments regularly to prevent diseases and other health issues from becoming a problem later in life. A cat is a member of the family, and therefore, is entitled to the same treatment as other loved ones.
Dogs let you know when they are excited and/or happy when they wag their tails. Cats wag their tails for very different reasons than dogs though. When a cat wags its tail, it is usually due to conflict and a potential decision of fight or flee. Likewise, if you are holding your cat, and he suddenly starts to wag his tail, you may need to let him down to avoid swats or scratches to yourself!
Act fast if you cat is panting. Dogs pant and that is the norm. Panting sometimes means your cat might be overheated or perhaps anxious, but it also can sometimes mean something even more serious. Do not hesitate to contact a vet, particularly if there has been a history of respiratory problems.
As previously mentioned, cats are great pets. You need to know all you can about cat care to ensure the happiness of your pet. Take advantage of all the suggestions this article provides. Your cat will be grateful!
