There is no end to the joys of cat ownership. However, it also takes lots of work to take care of a cat. You must be aware of the responsibilities of being a cat owner. Read here about which responsibilities you will be taking on. Read on and learn.
Brush and trim your cat’s fur often to keep it looking sharp. Just like dogs, cats require regular brushing and de-tangling. Doing this frequently can help them keep their coat clean. It’s also helpful in reducing how much cats shed and how often they spit out those dreaded hairballs. A well-groomed feline looks great on their own, but also helps keep a home well-groomed too.
Take your cat to the vet regularly to make sure they remain in good health. Cats need routine shots and wellness checks just like people. Never hesitate to have your cat checked out if you think that something is wrong; remember that your cat can not tell you they are not feeling well.
If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. Cats can range far from your home and the tag will help them find their way home. Be sure the name of your cat and your number can be found on the tag.
Deter cats from shocking themselves on electrical wires by spraying them with bitter apple. If the cat likes to chew on cords, its best to cover them as best you can. You can hide away any cords inside the rolls that come inside paper towels. All thin cords should be put up when you’re not using them.
Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Even cats who live completely indoors may someday decide to bolt out the door or escape out of a window. Collars or tags can identify your cat, but cats can wiggle out of those, and they are also at risk of getting hung up on something. Microchips are very small, and you can note your name, address and phone number in there. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.
Cats are known for spending inordinate amounts of time grooming themselves. Hairballs are very common for long-haired cats. If your cat needs assistance with this problem, consider a special diet. There are foods on the market for cats that specifically deal with the hairball problems and are good for the cat.
Cats are usually great for kids, but smaller kids may be too rough with them. Guide your kids in handling a feline. You should show them everything from how to properly carry the cat to the best ways to play with it. Because cats are more delicate than dogs, they need to be handled more carefully.
If you get a cat for your kids, make sure to set clear boundaries in advance. Make sure your children are aware of rooms that are open to your cat. If you want your cat to stay indoors, then the children must understand the seriousness of never letting it out. Setting up rules ahead of time can help your kids understand better.
Is your home also the home of both a dog and cat? That dog will really love stalking (and eating) that cat food. Try locating your cat’s food in an area where the dog cannot go. This will help prevent any fights that may occur between your animals.
Cats enjoy being high up. Allow them the space they need to feel safe while checking their world out. You do not need a big cat tree in the living room; simply provide a solid shelf next to a window. Putting a soft cat bed on the shelf can help to add a little comfort.
Speak to other people if you’re having cat troubles. You may try to handle it yourself, but you might need input from other cat owners. There are also forums on the Internet which cater to cat parents.
Get a drinking fountain for your cat. Cats out in the wild like to drink from running water, so they would like that at home too. Cats will respond more positively to streams of water. In fact, some cats prefer running sink water to their own water bowls. Drinking fountains are more environmentally-friendly and they let your cat drink naturally.
Cat ownership brings many benefits. To ensure that your cat lives the healthiest and longest life possible, you’ll have to provide the proper care. Be sure and use the information provided if you are considering making a cat a part of your life.
