If you want a wonderful pet, look no further than a cat. People who never have had a cat would probably get some use out of the article below. Below are some great tips and tricks that every cat owner needs to know in order to live happily with their new feline friend.
Take your cat to the vet every year. Cats need routine annual check-ups and possibly additional ones as well for vaccinations. Cats must see their vet right away if they start having health issues, injuries or other problems.
Never use a product on your cat that is intended for dogs. They can have very strong and possibly negative reactions to dog products. Flea products can be especially harmful. Your cat can die if you use a dog flea product on it. You should keep your cats and dogs separated after using a flea treatment.
Your cat’s claws can wreck havoc on your furniture. Purchase a scratching post to stop your cat from destroying your home. This can encourage cats to scratch something other than things that are off-limits. It might not happen overnight, but the problem should eventually stop.
It can be hard to stop your cat from coming on your counters. After all, cats prefer to stay high so that they can keep an eye out on everything. One way to nip this problem in the bud is to give your cat a dedicated perch of their own as an alternative to using your space. If you place a cat tower around the kitchen area, they may be less likely to lay on your counters.
Cats are usually great for kids, but smaller kids may be too rough with them. Make sure your kids understand how cats should be handled. Show them what activities are appropriate and how to pick them up. Cats have weaker bones than dogs so should be treated carefully.
Avoid letting your cat go outdoors. This can put your cat in an unsafe position. Your cat may pick up some fleas, or worse. It could be injured via a vehicle or another animal. Let your cat go out in your backyard and play on your lawn.
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. There are a number of message boards for cat owners on the Internet, or you can go to your vet with problems.
If your cat relieves itself somewhere other than its litter box, it shouldn’t be punished. When this occurs, it tends to be because the box is not being maintained properly. Punishing your cat may cause him to become afraid of you or their litter box.
Feed your cat quality cat food. Always look at the ingredients first. You want to see either fish, chicken or beef noted. Look for foods that do not have corn or elements that aren’t protein. Cats in the wild are meat eaters, and domestic cats need meat to ensure optimum health.
Go pick yourself up one of those water fountains for cats. Cats who are in the wild prefer to drink from running water, and this holds true for domestic cats, as well. Streaming water is much easier for your cat to take in. You have perhaps noticed that your cat enjoys drinking from the running sink. A fountain will give them the same effect, and it is more environmentally friendly.
Canned food is usually the best option for your cat. Food that is dry is cheaper but canned food is better for your cat’s health. Your cat will get more water and more vitamins and protein. For older cats, canned food chew easier. Canned food is usually a great option for your cat, but talk with your vet.
Make sure that you play with your cat as often as possible. As a matter of fact, exercise is crucial for all animals. Kitties who are senior citizens may not be super energetic, but they still enjoy playing. Make sure you spend time doing fun things with your cat.
Have your cat vaccinated as often as your vet prescribes. Cats need regular checkups, just like humans. Your cat is part of your family, and you should treat him as you would any other well-loved member of your household.
Happy dogs wag their tail. Cats, however, move their tails or sway it side to side for totally different reasons. When a cat is wagging its tail, it’s actually feeling threatened and mulling over the classic question of fight or flight. If you are petting your cat and its tail begins to wag vigorously, stay away from the cat. It may be ready to attack you.
Avoid leaving a declawed feline outside unattended. Without claws, your cat is essentially defenseless against other animals. This is a dangerous situation for the cat. The only cats that should be declawed are indoor cats. The front claws should be the only ones removed. Leaving the back claws is no problem since they won’t scratch your furniture or floors.
So, you have a cat or you are thinking about getting a cat. They are a source of comfort and reduce stress. There are, however, certain things you need to do to make sure your cat lives a healthy life. Following the guidelines you’ve just read will allow you to improve the quality and quantity of your cat’s years.