If you want a great pet, a cat fits that bill. Those that haven’t owned cats before should read the article below. Continue reading to find out some great tips for living with a cat.
Check out the shelter when adopting a cat. Sometimes, you may find the cat of your dreams at a shelter. Adopting from a pet shelter benefits the cat population.
Grooming is an essential part of your cat’s care. You have to make sure your cat gets brushed or combed often. This will keep them sterile and aesthetically pleasing. It will also cut down on shedding and hairballs. Keep your cat looking at its best by grooming it well.
It can be hard to make your cat stay off the counter. They love being above everything so that they can watch it all. One way to combat this behavior is to proved your cat with an elevated place it is okay to climb on. If you place a cat tower around the kitchen area, they may be less likely to lay on your counters.
Male felines tend to get crystals in the urine that can be prevented with proper diet. Passing crystals is very painful for your cat, and the vet’s bill will be painful for you. Your cat’s food should be low in magnesium. This means you should pay attention to labels on food. Poultry-based foods are generally lower in magnesium than fish.
When purchasing a tiny kitty as gift for the kids, it’s best to establish boundaries well ahead of the arrival. Make sure your children are aware of rooms that are open to your cat. Advise your children not to let the cat out if it is to be an indoor cat. If you make the rules ahead of time, you can be sure your kids understand them.
If your thinking about allowing your cat to go outside, you may want to reconsider. Cats come to harm outside every day. You cat might pick up pests or fleas. Cats can be gravely injured or killed by eating poisonous plants, flowers or chemicals, hit by a car or even harmed by neighbors who are irritated with your cat on their property. If your cat must go outside, try to confine them to the backyard.
Be very careful about allowing children to be alone with a kitten. Under five, the child needs to be watched. These children just do not possess the maturity to handle a kitten. They aren’t aware of the danger that they can cause to it. As children grow, it will be easier to see if they’re mature enough to handle a cat.
Litter Box
You cannot teach a cat to use a litter box. They will do it on their own and don’t need to be taught. Don’t try to force them into the litter box by rubbing their paws or face in it.
You cat needs to get used to being in a carrier. Cats don’t react to punishment like dogs do. Most of the time, it is better to use positive reinforcement. Put the carrier in a comfortable place and fill it with treats and toys. Your cat will start to venture into their carrier more often, until they are completely comfortable with it. It’s a much easier way to get the cat in.
If you are thinking about adding another cat to your home, you need to set aside a couple of weeks where you let the animals get used to being around each other. Two cats may fight, hiss, or hide from each other until they become more comfortable. Eventually they are going to get used to each other, and they may even end up becoming best friends.
Long haired cats take extra grooming time, so think about that before choosing one. Although it may look nice, it will look much worse when it sheds all over your home. These breeds are best left to those with the time and energy to do a lot of cleaning. They can also have more health issues due to hairballs.
Your cat’s choice to potty outside the litter box could signal something more worrisome than misbehavior. This could be a side effect of a health problem. A bladder infection is often at the root of the problem. If your pet stops using the litter box then see your veterinarian.
So, you have a cat or you are thinking about getting a cat. They are a source of comfort and reduce stress. However, in order for them to give their best, they need to be properly cared for. Taking the advice contained in this article means your cat is sure to live out a long lifespan.