If you use proper care techniques, cats can be truly delightful pets. You need to learn more on how to properly care for your beloved cat to make sure it is safe and healthy. You can find the information that you need to know in this article.
If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. They have tons of amazing cats who desperately need a home. Adopting your cat through a shelter means you are helping to control the cat population and saving a life at the same time.
Taking your cat in for regular check-ups at the veterinarian’s office is part of being a responsible pet owner. Cats need yearly shots and overall health assessments. Do your best to use the same vet for your cat’s entire life. Your veterinarian needs to know about your pet’s history, and your cat will feel more comfortable if you always take her to the same vet.
If you have a female cat it is important to have her spayed once she becomes old enough. You may keep your cat inside, but she could still slip outside and become pregnant. Having your cat spayed helps to control the pet population and will save you time and trouble.
You can also consider outfitting your cat with a chip so you can monitor its whereabouts. One day, your indoor cat might leave through an open door or get outside through an open window. A collar with tags increases your chances of getting your cat back if it gets lost but it can also be a risk, for instance if it gets snagged in some branches. You can use a microchip instead; you can store your contact information in the chip and it will not bother your cat. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.
Cats are usually more active during the night. Do not be surprised if your cat is very active at night. If your cat’s activities are keeping you awake at night, try keeping your bedroom door shut. This will keep them from attacking your toes.
Prevent crystals from forming in the urine of male cats with the right diet. This problem is painful for the cat and to your wallet, as well. Let your cat have food that doesn’t have a lot of magnesium in it. Consult the ingredient list. Poultry products are typically lower in magnesium than fish products.
Try to figure out why your cat makes meowing sounds. If you live with a cat for any amount of time, you will soon start to understand what your cat wants when she meows. Maybe she wants to go out, or maybe she wants to eat. Understand your cat’s preferences, and you’ll be that much better off.
Avoid leaving a kitten alone with small children. Younger children, especially under 5, cannot be left alone with your cat. Little children do not have the necessary skills yet to handle a pet by themselves. As children get older, decide when they show the maturity to handle a small pet.
Cats enjoy heights. Elevate your cat so that it can scan the area. You can give your cat on a shelf to accomplish this. Providing a blanket or bed for your cat is an extra treat for them.
Reduce the chances of raising a finicky cat by feeding them several brands of food while they are young. By feeding the cat the same kind of food over and over again, they become used to that specific food. Good luck getting it to try something new!
New cats are sometimes not welcomed in the home. They will probably hide from each other, hiss or even attack each other. Eventually they will grow accustomed to it and start tolerating or even enjoying each other’s company.
Litter Box
You should worry if your cat is no longer using its litter box. A common sign that a cat has a medical condition is failure to use the bathroom in the litter box. A potential bladder or kidney infection may be the reason for this. If your pet stops using the litter box then see your veterinarian.
If your cat’s been declawed, you should never let them outside. Cats without claws cannot stand up for themselves if they encounter another animal. The result could be injuries or death. Indoor cats are the only ones that may be declawed. Even with that, only their front claws should be removed. A cat’s back claws are important to his balance.
Make dry food the foundation of your cat’s diet. As kittens, cats need moist food to accommodate small teeth. As they grow older, dry foods ensure that their teeth are strong. If your pet cat is finicky, you might consider combining dry and wet food.
Health Issues
Overfeeding your cat can result in serious health issues as he ages. Your cat could become obese and develop some health issues. Be careful to feed your cat the proper portion amount, and also make sure that his food is packed with vital vitamins and nutrients.
Try putting sticky tape on the furniture if your cat decides to scratch it. This can deter your cat from scratching the upholstery. Check a pet store for this kind of tape. Get your cat out of this bad habit by doing this and supplying a scratching post.
Cats are wonderful pets, but must be properly cared for. The best way to learn to be a great cat owner is to read and use the information provided here. You and your cat can enjoy a long relationship by following the tips presented here.