Cats are probably the most amazing creatures you can have as pets. A new pet could be a great addition to your household but keep in mind that a cat is also a responsibility. Living with cats indoors is a big challenge. Cats are intelligent, strong, and agile, but they can also be quite stubborn. You’ll need good advice to deal with them.
If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. Adopting your cat at a shelter allows you to save a cat’s life while also helping mitigate overpopulation.
Never use any product intended for dogs on a cat. Cats usually react negatively to items made especially for dogs. Flea products are a prime example. Flea products meant for dogs can seriously harm or kill a cat. You need to separate your pets when you treat them for fleas.
A lot of cat owners have a hard time keeping their cats off the counter. If your cat is high, he can see everything that is going on. One way to deal with this issue could be to devote certain high spaces for your feline friend to sit in. One way to keep your cats from continuously jumping on the counter is to install a cat tower near the problem counter.
Keep your cat active and entertained to avoid boredom. Every cat needs exercise time and play! Too frequently this need is overlooked by owners. Bored cats can become depressed and inactive, causing harm to their well-being. Give them room to play and a large number of toys. Provide them with an indoor climbing area or scratching post.
Litter Box
The litter box for your cat needs to be positioned in the right place. The litter box should not be kept in an area with a lot of traffic. In addition, it does not need to be near the cat’s food. Choose an area that is well-ventilated to avoid bad smells. Your cat will certainly appreciate your efforts, and you will too!
A cat generally spends quite a bit of time grooming itself. Your cat can get hairballs in the event that their hair is too long. To help your cat out with this problem, try buying him special food. Some food are produced specifically for hairball reduction, which will help.
Cats enjoy high places. To keep your cat healthy, provide your cat with a high place to sit. If a big cat tree is not something that can easily fit in your home, get a sturdy shelf that can be used as a perch. Install a small bed for your cat or a comfortable blanket.
Brush your cat often. Brushing spreads natural oils through the fur and also stimulates circulation. It can help decrease the amount of loose hair as well. This will help you to avoid hairballs, which may cause your cat to choke. Hairballs are caused when a cat grooms itself.
Plan on spending the money for good cat food that contains the nutrients that your cat needs. Scrutinize the ingredients closely, and make sure that quality protein sources like chicken, fish and beef are first on the list. Try to avoid foods that consist of corn, or other non-protein elements. Cats are naturally carnivorous. If you want to keep them healthy and happy, you need to feed them plenty of animal protein.
If you’re adding an additional cat to your home, give the cats a few weeks to get to know each other. They may fight with each other initially. However, cats should eventually learn to co-habitate properly.
Prior to adopting any long-haired cat, make sure you understand the extra work 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. Long-haired cats are also more prone to hairballs.
Take note if the cat ceases using its litter box. Lots of cat conditions will make it difficult for a cat to defecate or urinate in their litter box. These conditions include kidney and bladder problems. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.
Phenol is a dangerous chemical to use around your cat. This is something that’s often in Pine-sol, Lysol, and other popular cleaners. Cats hate the smell of phenol and continuously exposing them to it could cause liver problems later in their lives.
If you decide to declaw your cat, never allow it to go outside. They can’t defend themselves against other animals and cats, which can risk injuries or death. If your cat is an outside cat, do not have it declawed. With indoor cats, just remove the front claws. There is no need to remove the back claws since the cat does not use them when clawing furniture or fabric.
Health Issues
Don’t feed your cat too much since this may cause them to acquire health issues later on. An obese cat is at a high risk for health issues. Pay attention to the portions your cat eats and choose your cat food very carefully.
Outsmarting the cat can turn into an effortless task after you read these tips. They are going to learn which places they can go and what things they should leave alone. While cat’s are harder to train than dogs, they are generally more well-mannered by nature.