Cats make wonderful pets, however, they can also be a bit finicky. When it comes to cats, you have to be aware of many things in order to properly raise it. Continue reading to learn excellent tips on properly providing for your cat.
Groom your cat. You can regularly brush or comb your cat. Doing it constantly can help you keep their coats clean. This will also cut down on shedding and can reduce issues with hairballs. In order to keep shed hair down to a minimum, plus have a beautiful cat, you must groom your cat regularly.
You should be bringing your cat to their vet for a check-up regularly. Understand that cats require vaccinations in order to stay healthy, and the veterinarian needs to regularly check for any health problems. When you find a vet you like, stick with them. This way they will know your cat’s history the best.
Your cat’s claws can wreck havoc on your furniture. If you have a cat that is wreaking havoc, buy a scratching post. Use catnip or other scents that are attractive to your kitty to encourage him to go there. It might take a little while, but eventually it should stop the problem.
Keep your cat amused. Cats should have a lot of exercise and playtime. Too many cat owners forget this simple fact. Cats that are bored may develop obsessive compulsive disorders, depression, or other issues that can harm their health. Give them room to play and a large number of toys. If you have an indoor cat, provide a kitty gym for them to climb on or a scratching post.
Give your kitty lots of love. Your cat will enjoy your company if you pet and play with her. Like humans, a cat has to be around people in order to feel special. They want to know they are a valuable part of the family too.
Male felines tend to get crystals in the urine that can be prevented with proper diet. Just like kidney stones, these crystals are painful and vet bills are pricey. Choose a cat food low in magnesium. Read the ingredient list on the label. Poultry products are typically lower in magnesium than fish products.
Cat medications can be bought affordable online. There are some times when this isn’t a good idea, like when you’re dealing with a pet related emergency. But if you have to regularly buy pet medicine, you can save 50% or more on some medicines by buying online.
Cat Outside
Think hard before allowing your cat outside. Letting your cat outside greatly increases his risk level. 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 you allow your cat outside, make sure you live in a reasonably safe area.
Use care if you have kids and a cat. Younger children, especially under 5, cannot be left alone with your cat. You may not have noticed a problem when you see them together, but very kids do not really understand they can accidentally harm or kill a kitten. As your children get older, you can decide when to teach them about handling a pet.
Cat Owners
If your cat experiences major problems, don’t be afraid to talk to other cat owners. You can solve most problems by yourself, but you might benefit from the experience of others. Your local veterinarian can be a valuable source of information, but there is also help available online by joining user forums geared toward cat owners.
If your cat does not use the litter box, do not use punishments to try to discipline him. Improper box care on your part causes the mess, not the cat. If you punish your cat for this, it will fear you later in the future.
Don’t scrimp when it comes to your pet’s food. Scrutinize the ingredients closely, and make sure that quality protein sources like chicken, fish and beef are first on the list. Look for foods that do not have corn or elements that aren’t protein. Cats are naturally carnivorous. If you want to keep them healthy and happy, you need to feed them plenty of animal protein.
Give your cat a water fountain. Your cat will prefer drinking from running water since this is a natural behavior. Streams of water will attract your cat. Many cats prefer running water over their water dish. Also, drinking fountains are more environmentally friendly and gives them the ability to drink naturally.
Make sure your cat has identification and a collar all the time. Even if your cat is a house cat, this is still a good idea. Cats are curious by nature, and an open window or door invites exploration. Include your contact number along with the name of your veterinarian. Include medical issues if appropriate.
Haired Cats
Prior to adopting any long-haired cat, make sure you understand the extra work involved. Long-haired cats shed constantly, and the fur ends up on your clothing, floors, and everything else in your home. Long-haired cats can be very high maintenance over the course of the year. You should keep in mind that long haired cats are more prone to hairballs.
Take notice if and when your cat ever stops conducting their business in their litter box. There are a number of medical issues that can cause your cat to suddenly stop using their box. Issues like a kidney infection are often behind such behaviors. Contact your veterinarian if your pet abandons its litter box.
There are cats out there that are relatively self-sufficient, and owning one can really be a breeze. Other cats demand more from an owner, though, so you need to be ready to provide the assistance they require. Use the tips from this article to help you be the very best cat owner and fully enjoy the experience. The research you have done will pay off in a big way, for both you and your cat!
