Once a cat is adopted, many obstacles may present themselves to the family taking on the new pet. Never take on a pet unless you are prepared to be responsible. Even with the most preparation, it can still be tough to anticipate everything a cat might do or need. Using these tips is a great solution to help you get prepared for what to expect in owning a cat.
Cats love to get into tight, small spaces. If they’ve got a collar on, this may put them in danger as it can get stuck. Purchase breakaway collars that will give if they are yanked tightly. This could save your cat’s life!
If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. This way, if your cat gets lost and is found by a stranger, that person will know how to contact you. The tag should contain the pet’s name, your phone number and your name as well.
Scratching Post
Cats can use their claws to destroy furniture and other parts of the house. If you have problems with a cat that shreds furniture, invest in a durable scratching post. When your cat scratches inappropriately, redirect him to the scratching post. Your cat will eventually understand they should only use the post or tower for scratching.
A lot of cat owners have a hard time keeping their cats off the counter. Cats love being up high so that they can see. One good way to beat this problem is by giving your kitty some safe, high perches throughout the house. If you place a cat tower around the kitchen area, they may be less likely to lay on your counters.
You have to place a litter box correctly. Don’t put it in a busy area, and keep it away from your cat’s food. Also, minimize the smell by making sure it is a well ventilated area. Your cat is certain to appreciate a litter box that is put into a good location.
Give your cat plenty of love and affection. They are very loving animals and deserve affection back. Similar to people, cats like to socialize and feel as if they are important to their family. They also like feeling important and a big member of the family.
Though a veterinarian will almost always have a supply of medications that your cat needs, it can be more cost-effective to purchase them from online venues. In emergency situations, buying online may not be a good option. But, for routine medications, this can be a budget-saver.
Sometimes children get too excited when playing with a new cat and may mishandle them. Teach your kids the right way to hold a cat. Demonstrate the proper way to pick up a cat and what they can do with the cat. Cats have weaker bones than dogs and need more gentle treatment.
Create a tablecloth just for your cat. Some cats prefer removing their food from the bowl and eating it on the side. If this occurs, you will have a mess on your hands. You can get a pet mat or use a piece of old fabric to put under it for easy cleanup.
When purchasing a tiny kitty as gift for the kids, it’s best to establish boundaries well ahead of the arrival. Explain where the cat is and isn’t allowed. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.
Think twice before leaving a child alone with a kitten. Children under 5 years of age should not be alone with the pet. They aren’t mature enough in order to handle the potential dangers of a kitten. As a kid ages, they can show maturity with handling a little pet.
Understand that cats enjoy being elevated. To make your cat happier, give him a lookout perch where he can check out the area. You do not need a big cat tree in the living room; simply provide a solid shelf next to a window. Additionally, you can place a bed or blanket in this space.
Do not throw away your cat’s scratching post because it is starting to look very old and worn. This is the condition that cats most appreciate. By removing the old item and replacing it with a new one, your cat may try to find another item to scratch. This could end up being furniture.
If your cat begins defecating or urinating too frequently, it’s time to see the vet. Sometimes, abnormal urination habits indicate an infection of the urinary tract. Some cheap antibiotics can resolve potential risks for your cat.
The tips given to you are great for all types of cats. Though the concepts are the same, there will inevitably be variations and a different set of circumstances for each family. Just remember to enjoy every minute with your adopted kitten no matter what.
