A cat can be the most wonderful pet you ever have. A lot of people are surprised by that, since there are so many stories of cats being snobby or too independent. However, the truth is that cats can be a wonderful addition to any home. Here are some tips to care for your cat.
Make sure to keep your cat’s litter box clean at all times. Most cats do not like to use a dirty litter box, much like you would not want to use a dirty toilet. Scoop it at least once a day. Empty and give it a good cleaning once a week or more if needed.
Cats love to play so make sure that you provide them with lots of toys. Cats enjoy batting around a fake mouse or little ball around the room. Some cats even develop a favorite toy. Playing with your cat is not only fun, it helps them to get exercise too.
If your dog and cat are best friends, be sure to keep them separate after flea treatment. Your dog’s flea products are very hazardous for cats. Cats that come in contact with dog flea products often die. Be sure to use only cat products on your cat and only dog products on your dog.
The litter box for your cat needs to be kept in a good place. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals. You’ll want to place the box in a spot with good ventilation to avoid unpleasant smells. Your cat will appreciate it and so will you.
If you want to have your cat for many years, it is a good idea to keep them indoors. While a cat may enjoy going outside, it is statistically proven that outdoor cats live shorter lives than indoor cats. There are dangers to a cat that spends time outside, not least of all other animals.
Use your cat to teach your children responsibilities. A pet demands care that the whole family can participate in. Each child can take different day to feed the cat, for instance. Same thing for litterbox care. You can make a schedule and post it on the refrigerator. Then, everyone knows what they are responsible for.
You shouldn’t be training your cats for litter box use. This should come naturally for your cat. You cannot teach it to do this. You may have heard that rubbing your cat;s paws in litter will help them learn, but that may have a traumatizing effect.
Do you feel like everywhere you turn you are surrounded by your cats hair? Cats shed a ton, so they must be brushed frequently. If your cat sheds, it’s important to brush then frequently. Brushing will also keep their coat in good shape.
If your cat is bitten by another cat, try to get him to the vet within 24 hours. The vet can put him on antibiotics that will protect him from infection setting in, and causing serious health problems. Cat bites can trap bacteria under your cat’s skin, forming an abscess, or other dangerous infection that can cost you hundreds of dollars to treat later.
Look for potential problems when getting a new cat. Their eyes should be clear, nose clear as well, and the ears without any kind of discharge. The cat should have a shiny coat and the mouth and gums should be free of sores. Taking on an unhealthy cat can be expensive.
Is your cat really sweet and lovable? If so, they might make a good therapy pet. Pet therapy uses animals to go into places like nursing homes, and bring some joy to the people there. Your cat will be happy with all the attention, and you can feel good about doing something positive for others.
There are lots of cats out there that do not have homes. Consider adopting one from your local pet agency before heading to the pet store. They usually provide the cat with all of the necessary shots before you adopt them. The cats are also spayed or neutered to prevent pet overpopulation.
Try to be consistent with the type of cat litter and food you buy your cat. If you change up, it may cause some issues. Cats are creatures of habit, and they do not adapt well to change. If you must make some changes, it would be a good idea to do them gradually.
When you’re smitten with your kitten, it’s tempting to dole out treats generously. However, treats are meant to be just that. They lack the nutritional value of regular cat food. Treats should not make up more than 5 percent of your pet’s daily diet. Any more than that may prevent your cat from receiving the nutrients it needs for good health.
Beware of panting. For dogs, panting is completely normal. If a cat is panting, it might indicate simple anxiety or overheating. On the other hand, it may a symptom of a more serious health problem. It is important to speak to your vet, specifically if your feline has suffered from respiratory issues.
Cats can brighten the life of most people, but only if the person knows how to properly take care of their cat. This article has hopefully given you some ideas about how you can do that. If you apply these tips to your own cat, you’ll find that your cat is the best friend you ever had.
