Cats are in a class of their own when it comes to animals. They are by far one of the best pets for the home. In addition to being fun and entertaining, having a cat will prevent rodents and other pests from getting in your home. By preventing pests from getting into the home, it is safe to say cats are real heroes.
Cats really enjoy squeezing into any and all small spaces. If they have a collar on, this can be dangerous. Put a breakaway collar on instead. This will allow your cat to live another day if it gets tangled up.
To safely help an old cat feel comfortable, place a heated tile under its bed. Use a terra cotta tile to help relieve your cat’s aches and pains; put it in the oven on low heat – 200 degrees or so – for 15 minutes. Wrap the tile inside an unneeded towel and place it under your kitty’s favorite resting spot. Change it out every few hours if you feel the need.
When your female cat is old enough, you should have her spayed. You may believe that this is unnecessary if your cat stays inside all the time; however, cats almost always find a way to get outside, especially when they are in heat. When this occurs, your cat could get pregnant. Having your cat spayed is the only way to 100 percent prevent accidental litters.
Prevent your cat from chewing on electrical cords by spraying bitter apple on them. If your cat likes to chew cords, hide the cords as best you can. If you have any loose cords around your home, try stuffing them into a used paper towel roll. 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 looking for good prices on cat medications, check online sources. The prices will usually be substantially better than at your vet. Though, in emergency situations, buying online may not be possible. But, if you’re having to buy pet medication regularly, you will be able to save up to half the price if you buy online.
If you’re taking a trip with your cat, be sure to protect its ears. You may like music loud and booming, but a cat will prefer lower volumes as their ears are more sensitive. Spare your cat’s sensitive hearing by keeping the volume down at all times.
Sometimes children get too excited when playing with a new cat and may mishandle them. Guide your kids in handling a feline. Give them examples of how to be gentle with it and what should and should not be done. Cats have weaker bones than dogs so should be treated carefully.
Boundaries Ahead
When you buy a small kitty for your children, set the boundaries ahead of time. Make sure everyone understands which parts of the house the cat is not allowed in. If your cat is going to be one that stays inside, let the kids know that it’s not allowed outside. Establishing these boundaries ahead of time prevents any confusion.
Think hard before allowing your cat outside. It is dangerous in today’s society. They may acquire fleas or much worse things. Cats can be gravely injured or killed by eating poisonous plants, flowers or chemicals, hit by a car or even harmed by neighbors who are irritated with your cat on their property. If you must let your cat outside, do so in a very small area of your backyard or lawn.
Do you have both a cat and dog? Dogs will eat a cat’s food any time they’re given the chance. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. This can prevent squabbles over water when their food is gone.
Understand that leaving a small kitten together with small children can be dangerous to both. Never leave a pet alone with a child who is any younger than five. A child of that age doesn’t realize when they are being too rough with a pet. As children get older, decide when they show the maturity to handle a small pet.
Drinking Fountain
Consider buying your cat a special drinking fountain. A cat will always drink from running water if possible. A constant stream of water will entice them to stay hydrated. In fact, many cats like to drink from a running faucet instead of drinking from their water bowls. A drinking fountain provides a more natural and environmentally friendly way for your cat to drink.
Prior to adopting any long-haired cat, make sure you understand the extra work involved. Silky, long hair can be stunning, but that fur won’t look as pretty when it’s on your sofa, clothes, and carpet. Unless you are prepared to do more cleaning, don’t buy a long haired cat. Not to mention cats that have long hair are more prone to getting issues with hairballs.
Litter Box
If you’re dealing with a cat that won’t use the litter box, you should place it somewhere else. Cats perceive using the bathroom as an activity that makes them vulnerable, so moving the litter box to a less-trafficked area means your cat is more likely to use it. A basement, laundry room, or another area that doesn’t experience much household traffic is the ideal spot for the litter box.
Although cats may not be considered man’s best friend like dogs are, they can make excellent household pets. Cats are effective mouse-hunters, but they are also cunning and inquisitive. This makes them fascinating pets. With such wonderful qualities, it’s no wonder cats are very popular.