Cats are very curious. Though they seem independent, they also appear to be thoroughly needy sometimes. Through all the confusion, you cannot overstate the joy of a purring, happy cat. The following tips can help you deal with your cat’s confusing behavior.
Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. By choosing a cat from an animal shelter, you can do your part to help with overpopulation. Also, you become a lifesaver!
Make sure your cat is always well groomed. Just like dogs, cats require regular brushing and de-tangling. Doing this frequently can help them keep their coat clean. It also stops hairballs. A well-groomed feline looks great on their own, but also helps keep a home well-groomed too.
Though things may appear to be fine, you should always schedule regular medical checkups for your feline pet. Your vet can give you an idea of your cat’s overall health, in addition to administering any shots it may need. Try using the same vet during your cat’s life. They will learn your cat’s history best.
Cats are curious by nature, which can end up getting them into trouble. If they have a collar on, this can be dangerous. A breakaway collar will let go if it is pulled on too tightly. This could help save your cat if it gets caught in a tight spot.
If your cat is getting older, you can increase it’s comfort by placing its bed over a heated tile. Simply heat a terra-cotta tile in a 200 degree oven for 20 minutes. Cover with a small blanket or towel, then place it beneath your pet’s bed. If possible, re-heat several times throughout the night.
Regular visits to the vet will make sure that you cat is as healthy as he can be. Your cat should always go to the vet for a check up, especially if they need shots. If there are more pressing health problems, take your cat to the vet right away.
If you have an outdoor cat, be sure he or she has a tagged collar. If your cat gets lost during its time outdoors, a tag makes it easier to locate the animal. Be sure that the pet’s name and also your home number are on the tag.
Scratching Post
A cat can do a lot of damage to your furniture with its claws. If you are having problems with your cat clawing up furniture, then purchase a scratching post or kitty tower. You should scold your cat when it scratches your furniture and direct its attention to the scratching post or tower. This will take some time but will be a valuable investment.
It is a good idea to microchip your cat. Even indoor cats can decide to run away at a moment’s notice, escaping through an open window. A collar and identification tags can help bring your pet back to you. But experts point out that collars that do not snap apart quickly if your cat gets it caught on a branch or even a bush can accidentally strangle your cat. A microchip will hold the contact information to reach you and it’s only about as big as a piece of rice. Nearly every vet and shelter owns a scanner which can read a microchip, and since they’re implanted, there isn’t a risk of the chip falling out or getting lost.
Be sure you show your cat lots of love. Most cats crave the same warmth and companionship they give their owners. Like most folks, cats have the need to socialize to feel like part of the family. They probably would like to feel as though they are a wanted part of the family.
Male felines tend to have a build-up of crystals that present in the urine, so you need to avoid this with proper nutrition. These are very painful and expensive to treat. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Always read labels. Foods that contain fish usually have more magnesium.
Often, the best cat medicine deals are found online. Though, in emergency situations, buying online may not be possible. But, if your cat is on a regular medication, you can save quite a bit by buying it online.
Be especially mindful of your cat’s ears when you take them on a trip. You may love loud music, bit it might be bothering your cat. Spare your cat’s sensitive hearing by keeping the volume down at all times.
Do all you can to figure out what’s causing your cat to meow. After a while, you’ll start to recognize what some of the noises your cats makes mean. Your cat could be hungry or thirsty, or it may want to leave the house. Look for the cues and you’ll be much more in tune with your pet.
If your cat begins defecating or urinating too frequently, it’s time to see the vet. This may be a symptom of an infection of the urinary tract or another health problem in your cat. A quick course of antibiotics can head off dangerous complications if you get your cat diagnosed and treated early enough.
If you can, keep your cat inside and close to you. Indoor cats live longer and stay healthier. Exercising every day with the owner doesn’t come with the risks of disease or attack that other cats face roaming the wild.
Keep an eye out for panting. Dogs normally pant on a regular basis. Cats often pant when they are anxious or overheated, but this may also signal a more serious issue. It is wise to consult your vet, especially if the cat has past respiratory problems.
While cats make excellent pets, be prepared to be thrown off balance sometimes! Let the suggestions in this article help you to make their lives more comfortable. Having cats can be a great thing for anyone, and when you care for them properly, a happy cat is a great friend.