Provided that you know how to properly care for them, cats make absolutely delightful pets. If you own a cat and want to give it a great life, you need to do your research. Read these tips to be the best cat owner you can be.
Any drape cords should be hidden so the cat cannot grab hold of them. Do not let your cat play with these. If the cords are in loops and the cat jumps into them or plays with them, they could possibly get them caught around their neck. This could hurt or kill them. Be sure your drape cords are strongly secured.
If your cat is female, you need to get it spayed at the proper age. Even though your cat stays indoors all the time, there might be that one time she slips through the door when she goes into heat, which results in a litter of unexpected kittens. Getting your cat spayed is a great way to stop this from going on.
Don’t use items on a cat that are meant for a dog. Cats will have a reaction that’s negative towards a product made for dogs. This is particularly true when it comes to flea treatments. Canine flea medications are strong and often made from a different formula than the feline version. They can cause death in cats. Your cat needs to be away from the dog after your dog has received a flea treatment.
Deter your cat from chewing on inappropriate things by using bitter apple. If your cat happens to be a champion cord-chewer, you’ll need to use cord covers to protect your cords. You can hide away any cords inside the rolls that come inside paper towels. If you own electronic devices with thin cords, you should keep them out of your cat’s reach when you’re not using them.
If you’re traveling with your cat, take care to remember their ears. You might love blasting your favorite music while driving, but they enjoy softer sounds. Therefore, try lowering your music or turning it off in order for your cat to enjoy the trip more.
You cat needs to get used to being in a carrier. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. They are much better with encouragement. Place a loved blanket and favorite toy into a carrier and then leave the door open. Make sure it’s in an area that the cat frequents. Your cat will start to venture into their carrier more often, until they are completely comfortable with it. Once the cat is comfortable with the carrier, you can transport it easily.
Drinking Fountain
Get your cat a drinking fountain. Cats like running water for drink more than water that is just sitting there. Streams of water will attract your cat. Many cats prefer running water over their water dish. Also, a cat drinking fountain is better for the environment and allows them to be more natural.
Make sure that your cat has a collar on with ID tags on it. This is essential, even for indoor pets. Even the tamest indoors cat can be tempted by the possibilities presented by an open door or window. The tag should have your phone number on it. Include medical issues if appropriate.
Is your cat peeing all the time, sometimes in places that it shouldn’t? If so, you should talk to your veterinarian. Cats sometimes exhibit this type of behavior when they have a urinary tract infection or other health concern. In many cases, cheap antibiotics will resolve the problem and keep your cat healthy.
Don’t bring home a cat with long hair without taking into account the extra care they’ll require. That lovely, silky coat won’t look nearly as good all over your floors as it does on the cat. If you can handle the extra grooming and cleaning time, then a long haired cat might be a good choice for you. There will be hairball issues as well.
Litter Box
If kitty stops using its litter box, pay attention. There are a number of health issues that can lead a well-trained cat to urinate in places other than their litter box. A UTI or kidney infection may be the reason for its bathroom problems. Speak with your vet if your pet stops using the litter box.
It is possible that placing the litter box in a new part of the house will help your cat to bond with it. The best place for a litter box is in a secure, quiet area. Cats feel vulnerable when they’re using it, so they want it to be in a place where they feel safe. Basement areas and laundry rooms make perfect areas, as they have little traffic.
Some foods that you enjoy as a human aren’t any good for your cat. These include garlic, grapes, green tomatoes and onions. Allowing your cat to eat even a few bites may cause serious illness or even death. Milk could also lead to an upset stomach if the cat drinks it.
You cannot keep a cat as a pet if you are not prepared to properly care for it. If you’re going to own a cat and be responsible about it you should reread this article and use the information that is in it. With the love and care that you provide it, you will make sure that your cat has a happy and healthy life.