Cats are a very unique animal to own. Cats are very independent and can entertain themselves to some extent if you are often busy. If you have a cat or are considering getting one, take a look at the handy advice below so that you can be a better owner and give your pet the quality care it deserves.
Cats often view small spaces as a fun challenge. If they have a collar, this can be a safety issue if they get stuck. The advantage to a breakaway type collar is that if enough pressure is put on it, it will just let go rather than strangle the cat. This could save your cat’s life if the collar gets caught in some branches.
If your cat is a female, you’ll want to spay her once she reaches the proper age. Even if your cat is an indoor cat, if she escapes while she is in heat you might end up with a lot of kittens on your hands. Your best bet is to have your female cat spayed.
Be certain your cat has regular vet visits. Cats need routine shots and wellness checks just like people. If a condition, illness, or injury happens, your cat should be taken to the vet immediately.
Most cats are very nocturnal. This means that they will usually be quite active at night. Try closing the door if your cats are keeping you awake at night. They should stay away from you at night and then they will not be able to jump on your feet.
A proper diet for male cats will help prevent kidney problems that cause them to pass crystals with their urine. The cat is in pain passing the crystals, and the correction for this is costly. Choose a cat food low in magnesium. Read the labels. Fish products are usually higher in magnesium.
Think hard before allowing your cat outside. This could be harmful and unsafe. You cat can get fleas and contract diseases. Your cat might be injured by people, other animals and even vehicles on the road. If you’ve just got to have the cat outdoors, limit it to an enclosed area.
Be very careful about allowing children to be alone with a kitten. Under five, the child needs to be watched. A child of that age doesn’t realize when they are being too rough with a pet. As your child matures, carefully consider whether a small pet is safe with them.
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. Don’t force your cat into the box or you will traumatize them.
Although you might find its appearance unappealing, don’t toss a scratching post when it’s getting particular worn and frazzled. Cats typically like older posts compared to newer posts. There is a good chance if you got rid of it and bought a new one that your cat would start scratching up your furniture.
Animal Protein
Your cat deserves a high quality food. Check out the list of ingredients of any food you are considering buying. Ensure that an animal protein source, including fish, chicken, or beef, is the main ingredient. Avoid brands that use non-meat fillers like corn. Cats are carnivores and must have a lot of animal protein for proper nutrition and better health.
Feeding your cat the proper canned food is ideal. Dry food can be less costly, but there are quite a few benefits to canned food. Canned foods are also richer in fat, proteins and will help hydrate your cat. If your cat is getting older, canned food is easier to chew as well. Ask your vet, though canned food is often better for your cat.
Before bringing home a long-haired cat, consider the extra care involved. The hair looks good, except when it’s all over your furniture. Unless you’re committed to taking care of the furry mess, avoid getting cat with long hair. There will be hairball issues as well.
Litter Box
Put some thought into where you place the litter box. You may want to place in some out-of-the-way corner so the smell doesn’t bother anyone. Make sure your cat can easily reach the litter box at all times. Cats are finicky, so you must provide an environment that is not inconvenient or off-putting to the animal. If the litter box is on a hard surface, make sure to put something soft underneath it.
Help your cat live a longer life by keeping them healthy and keeping them current with check-ups and vaccinations. Just like children, a kitten needs to have immunizations and wellness checks periodically to avoid disease and other health problems later in life. Your cat will be a valued member of your family, which means treating it just as you would other loved ones.
Try and incorporate dry food into your cats diet. Kittens need wet food due to having small teeth. As an adult, the harder texture of dry food keeps their teeth strong. You can also try mixing dry and wet food until you get the consistency your cat prefers.
Cats are wonderful pets, as they are smart, loveable, and independent. If you are responsible, you should educate yourself about caring for your kitty properly. The next time you interact with your cat, remember what you’ve just read. By following proper care, a cat can live a happy life for decades.