Fun, furry, and finicky: three words that perfectly describe cats. There are so many things you need to know if you’re going to own a cat. The article below has the information you need.
If you own a female cat, it’s crucial to spay it at the appropriate age. Even if she stays inside all the time, she could get out when in heat and end up pregnant. Getting your cat spayed is the best in regards to prevention.
Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Your pet may be an indoor cat, but that doesn’t mean it’ll never dash through your door or slide outside via an open window. While a collar with a tag is useful, remember that your cat may be able to escape from the collar while they are away. Collars can also harm your cat if they get caught. Your important information can all fit nicely on a rice grain sized microchip. Most shelters and veterinarians can scan your pet to read the information on the chip, and the chip cannot be lost since it is beneath the skin.
Make sure your cat is not too bored. Cats need to play and get regular exercise. Unfortunately there are too many cat owners who don’t properly exercise their cats. 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. Indoor cats will be happier if you provide them with climbing resources and practical things such as scratching posts.
Adore your cat! Cats provide warmth and affection, and they also require the same from you. Cats, just like people, want to feel like a loved part of a family. Socialization is important to them. They wish to be a happy and valuable family member.
Male cats often develop crystals in their bladder that come out in their urine. This can be prevented with a proper diet. Passing such crystals is a painful experience for your cat, and your wallet isn’t going to enjoy the vet bill. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Always read labels. You will notice that fish-based foods and products are higher in levels of magnesium than anything sourced from poultry.
Make sure that you have a good tablecloth for your kitten. Some cats like removing food from their bowl and eating it beside their bowl. If this happens, you’ll have to clear away any excess food that’s left outside. A simpler way to do this is by getting a place-mat and placing it under their bowl. You can also cut some fabric to make a tablecloth that can be lifted, washed, or shaken over a trash can.
Tell your kids what the rules are about your new kitten. Make sure everyone understands which parts of the house the cat is not allowed in. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. By making the rules well known to your children, your children will understand what is and is not allowed.
Think over whether or not you should let your cat go outdoors. Going outdoors isn’t very safe for a domesticated cat. They may acquire fleas or much worse things. Your cat may be targeted by another animal, or get injured by a vehicle or another person. If letting your cat outdoors is important to you, let them out in a safe fenced area.
Be very careful about allowing children to be alone with a kitten. A child less than five years old should not be left alone with a small pet. Little children do not have the necessary skills yet to handle a pet by themselves. As a kid ages, they can show maturity with handling a little pet.
Though caring for a cat can seem like no big deal, there are actually a lot of things to consider, including veterinarian visits and giving them extra amounts of attention. You can care for your cat best with the tips in this article. The effort expended will be well worth it, and will be rewarded in many ways.