Humans have had cats as companions for eons. They’ve been subjects in many musicals, movies, and poems. A cat is a very intriguing animal but you will be able to form a strong bond with this pet. The advice below is priceless.
Cats are nocturnal animals. Do not be surprised if your cat is very active at night. If your kittens are keeping you awake into the middle of the night, close the door to your bedroom. This will ensure you sleep much better, without cats jumping into bed with you.
Your cat needs to be shown lots of love. Cats provide warmth and affection, and they also require the same from you. Cats need a social life with people just like you do with other people. Your cat wants to be as much a member of the family as anyone else.
Cats will often devote most of their time to grooming. Hairballs are very common for long-haired cats. If your cat has this issue, try changing his food. Some food are produced specifically for hairball reduction, which will help.
Some male cats get urinary crystals, but this is preventable with proper diet. It can be painful to pass these crystals and your vet bill will be priced accordingly. Choose a cat food low in magnesium. Just as in the grocery store, take the time to read the labels. Foods that contain fish usually have more magnesium.
If you need cat medication, consider searching online instead of using your veterinarian in order to find a better deal. In an emergency, however, this might not be possible. But for routine medication purchases, you may find a discount of 50 percent online.
Little kids shouldn’t be left alone near cats. 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. Cats have weaker bones than dogs do, and must be treated accordingly.
Create a little tablecloth for your cat. Cats often take food from their bowls to eat on the side. This leaves food on the floor outside their bowl that must be cleaned. To simplify your clean up duties, place a ready made placemat under the dish or purchase some inexpensive fabric and use it like a tablecloth.
Are you the proud owner of both a cat and dog? Keep in mind that the two animals have separate dietary needs, and dogs will try cat food if given the chance. Thus, you must keep cat food out of the dog’s reach. In doing so, you prevent spats and spitting over competition for water.
Litter Box
Do not attempt to teach your cat how to use the litter box. This is natural to them and does not need to be taught. While many pet owners try to introduce their cats to a litter box by rubbing their front paws in the sand, this can sometimes traumatize your furry friend.
When your cat starts urinating often or in odd places, it may be time to see the vet. A change in where or how a cat urinates can signal a UTI or other health problem. Antibiotics will often do the trick if it is an infection.
Are you overwhelmed by cat hair? Since cats shed so much, they need to be frequently brushed. If your cat is shedding too often, you should brush it more regularly. This will make your cat’s coat nice and smooth.
Pay attention if your cat won’t use their litter box. There are many health conditions that can cause your cat to use the restroom in places other than their own litter box. Kidney or bladder infections may be the reason. If your cat stops going in the litter box, a call to the vet is in order.
Happy dogs wag their tail. Cats wag or move their tails from side to side as well, but not for the reasons dogs do. A cat that is flicking its tail is either feeling threatened or predatory and is considering his next move. If your cat starts wagging its tail while you hold it, you might want to set it down to avoid getting scratched and swatted.
Never give your pet any drugs that were designed for use by humans. If your cat is ill, you need to take him to the vet to get proper treatment. You could unintentionally kill your beloved pet if you use medications designed for humans.
Do not allow your pet to go without a tag and collar. Cats are very resourceful and like to try to escape whenever the chance presents itself. If there is a tagged collar on your cat, it’s more likely she’ll be returned to you if she gets lost.
If you adopt another pet, it may make your cat uneasy for a while. To keep pet drama at a minimum, keep the pet away from your cat. This will help the cat get used to the smell of the new animal. Then gradually introduce the new pet to the cat. Take it slow so your cat does not get upset.
Don’t get a cat during the holidays, as things are too hectic to give your pet proper attention. Instead, it is a much better idea to take your child to the pet store or shelter and involve them in the selection of the new pet.
If you’re concerned about how far your outside cat wanders from home, think about getting it a microchip. If your cat is missing, you may look online and see where they are so that you can easily get them back.
Your cat may feel that they rule your home or the universe. However, if you use the tips provided, they will soon learn who is really in charge. People love cats because they make great pets, and this advice can help your relationship with your animal.
