Though they are independent, cats need care, just like all pets. The grooming methods you use on dogs or other animals won’t necessarily work for your cat. You must take additional care to ensure they remain clean and well groomed. This article will provide some useful tips on the care of your feline companions.
Let kittens and cat-friendly pet dogs get to know each other slowly. Put up a baby gate to keep dogs in one room while your new kitten gets used to its surroundings. Supervise carefully when the kitten ventures to the gate to meet the dogs. When the kitten feels safe, it will climb the gate. If it feels threatened, it will pop right back out to safety.
Regular visits to the vet will preserve your cat’s health. They should go at least once yearly for a check-up, and more often if they need any shots. If your cat has any health issues or injuries, you should try and have them seen right away.
Protect your cat from choking. Be sure to dispose of poultry and fish bones safely. Wrap them in a paper or plastic bag and put them in your outdoor garbage can with the lid tightly secured. Alternately, place them in a plastic bag and freeze them until garbage pick up day.
Cats love to much on grass and plants such as catnip. There are plants however that are poisonous to cats. Chrysanthemums and holly are beautiful and common around the Holidays, but can be very toxic to cats. Other plants that are toxic or lethal include lilies, rhubarb and daffodils.
Cats can tend to be more nocturnal than not. It is likely that they will want to play while you are sleeping. Try closing the door if your cats are keeping you awake at night. This will ensure they don’t pounce on you at nighttime, or wake you up in other ways.
Do not use medicine meant for a dog on a cat. This is especially important for topical medicines. Cats do their own cleaning, and if a dog medicine is used on a cat, your pet can ingest it. There are some medicines that work for both cats and dogs, but only use them if the vet says it is okay.
If your cat has a tendency to eat your plants, you can stop him. You can either purchase bitter apple spray and spray the pot, or you can put a bit of clove oil on a cotton ball and bury it a bit in the soil. Your cat will avoid both.
If you going to be gone for more than a day, you should have someone look in on your cat. Leave out plenty of food, but have someone come to make sure it doesn’t run out. If you do not have a neighbor or family to look in on your cat, you can usually find a cat sitter for a few dollars each day.
If your cat goes outdoors a lot, the chances are good that they come home filthy once in a while. When your cat is especially dirty or smelling like a skunk, you should make an appointment with the local groomer. Groomers will be gentle with your cat, resulting in a less traumatic experience.
You cat needs to get used to being in a carrier. You cannot punish a cat the same way you would a dog. Encouragement is more likely to get them to respond. Placing some of your cats favorite items in the carrier can really help. In time, the cat will head inside and be happy. Then, you will have no problem using the carrier.
A kitty door is a great way to allow your cat to go in and out, without any help from you. You can also use kitty doors on doors inside your home. This can be great if you have a dog or small children, to keep them out of the room with the litter box.
Sometimes cats can have problems with arthritis when they get older. This makes it harder for them to get around. You can buy them a heated bed to lay in to help ease the discomfort. It is also a good idea to talk to the vet about any medications that might help out.
To keep your cat using the litter box, always keep it clean. No matter what kind of scented or special formula litters you may use, nothing is a substitute for removing clumps and used litter several times a day. Keep your litter box in a quiet area of your home.
When adopting a cat, consider adopting two. Cats are social creatures, and they prefer to be in the company of other feline friends. Having two will help to keep your kitty occupied, and it can make it easier to take care of your new pet. If owning two is not an option, make sure to spend extra time giving your cat love.
If your cat seems excessively thirsty, take him to the veterinarian to get him checked out. Excessive thirst is a common symptom of diabetes in cats, and this often missed diagnosis can cause serious complications if left untreated. Always keep a close eye on your furry friend’s water intake, and if you are concerned get him to the doctor to have a look.
Try putting sticky tape on the furniture if your cat decides to scratch it. This style tape will really make your cat stop scratching the furniture. There is tape available that is specifically designed for this. Place sticky tape on your furniture and install a scratching post in order to kick this bad habit.
Providing your cat with good grooming will make it shine. Remember that grooming is essential in order to keep your cat healthy – and happy, too! Any love and care you give your cat is appreciated by them. Use this article to help take care of your cat efficiently.
