Cats are fabulous animals. Their independence and intelligence can create such a fun-filled house pet experience. But, it’s not so simple to take proper care of a cat. Read on for a ton of helpful tips on caring for your cat, and use what you will learn to provide the best home for your feline friend.
Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Shelters are filled with beautiful cats, and the fee for adoption will basically cover the needed vet care. Rescuing a cat can end up making a big difference in both of your lives.
Make frequent checkups with your vet to keep your cat healthy. Your vet will provide your cat with the shots it needs to prevent disease. Your vet can also check the overall health of your cat. Try using the same vet during your cat’s life. Your veterinarian needs to know about your pet’s history, and your cat will feel more comfortable if you always take her to the same vet.
Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. Cats will react very negatively to any products intended for dogs. This will especially be true if it’s a product for fleas. Dog flea prevention products will kill your cat. After your dog receives a flea treatment, keep your cat away for at least a few hours.
You can keep your cat away from electrical cords by spraying them with some bitter apple. You can also cover your cords under a rug or tape them to walls. The tube from a used-up roll of paper towels makes an excellent shield for loose cords. Electronic items with tasty-looking, thin cords (video game controllers, phone chargers, and so on) should be stored securely when you’re not using them.
Cats love to play on kitchen counters, and it can be hard to break them of the habit. They love to be able to look around from up high. You can control this tendency a bit by making high places in the house that you feel comfortable having your cat utilize. For example, give them a cat tower nearby.
Don’t let your cat’s days pass without stimulation and excitement! It is necessary for them to play and get exercise. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. Give them plenty of room to exercise and a wide selections of toys. If they’re an indoor cat, get them an object to climb on or a scratching post.
Your cat most likely spends quite a bit of time grooming. In long-haired cats, hairballs can result from excess grooming. To help prevent this from occurring, buy your cat special food. Certain kinds of cat food are made to decrease hairballs. As a result, you and your cat will be happier.
Your cat has sensitive ears, especially in the car when they’re stressed out. You may be tempted to blast your favorite songs at top volume. Cats, on the other hand, would probably prefer that you didn’t. If your cat seems upset or agitated, turn down the music and speak calmly to him.
Though cats make great pets for kids, younger kids may be too rough with them. It is important to show your child how to approach and handle a cat. Give them examples of how to be gentle with it and what should and should not be done. Cats have weaker bones than dogs do, and must be treated accordingly.
If your cat is excessively meowing, try to figure out why. Learning about your cat’s meows will be easier the longer you know her. A meow could signal anything from hunger to a desire for affection. When you pay attention to the cat’s actions and cues, then may grow to understand the cat all the more.
Consider getting your cat a fountain to drink from. Cats like their water to move. Your cat, if its like most, will really respond to this running water. Running sink water is another alternative that you can use. Drinking fountains are more environmentally-friendly and they let your cat drink naturally.
Give your cat canned food. Although dry food is usually less expensive, canned food is better for your cat. Your cat can get more water, fat and protein from canned food. Aging cats will find it easier to chew. Canned food is usually a great option for your cat, but talk with your vet.
Be patient with your pets when you introduce a second cat into your home. There will be an inevitable adjustment period as your two cats get to know each other. They may still hiss and growl when they are in the same room together. Over time, though, they will learn to tolerate each other and eventually form a close bond.
Every cat loves to have lots of play time. Actually playtime is very common for all animals, especially cats and people despite their age. Older cats do not have the same energy level as younger ones, but they still like to play a little. Make sure you play with your cat at least once a day.
A cat can be a wonderful addition to the family, as long as you make the effort to learn about taking care of them properly. Study these tips carefully. Make use of it so that you can enjoy a happy and healthy cat.