Cats are intriguing animals and can make wonderful pets. Felines are highly independent, making them perfect for homes where you are not always in the house. Of course, they’re just as wonderful if you’re able to be with them at all times. The following article gives you sound advice that you can use to keep your cat happy and healthy.
Ensure your cat remains groomed. Cats should have regular combings. If this is done frequently, your cat’s coat will be much cleaner. Having a clean fur coat helps reduce the amount of hairballs that get spit up around the house. Brushing your cat will keep your home cleaner, too.
Cats like sneaking into small spaces. If your cat wears a collar they might get hurt, and stuck. Therefore, use a breakaway collar that will come undone whenever it’s being pulled very tightly. This will allow your cat to live another day if it gets tangled up.
Never use a product on your cat that is intended for dogs. Cats will react very negatively to any products intended for dogs. Flea products especially. Products used for flea prevention in dogs can be very harmful to your cat. In truth, your cat needs to be kept a distance from any dog just flea-treated for the first few hours.
Cats enjoy heights. Allow them the space they need to feel safe while checking their world out. You can use a cleared shelf if you’d rather not have a cat tree. You could even place a small bed or blanket on the shelf to make your cat feel more comfortable.
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. Cats may well try scratching something else entirely (like your furniture!) if you replace their beloved toy with something unfamiliar.
Invest in a cat friendly fountain. Cats like running water in the wild, as well as in the home. The drinking fountain will look more inviting than a water bowl. Actually, you will see many cats prefer running tap water from the sink instead of the water bowl. Fountains keep the water cool and clean.
Your cat should be given food from a can. Dry foods are cheaper but canned foods are richer in vitamins and nutrients. Canned food provides more water content for your cat as well as more fat and protein. It’s also much softer on older teeth if your cat is getting up there in years. Discuss this with your vet, who may tell you to feed your cat canned food.
Play is something that all cats need to do. All mammals love to play. An aging cat may not have as much energy as a kitten, however it will still enjoy a little light playtime. Play with your cat and give them the fun time it needs.
Try relocating your cat’s litter box if it’s refusing to use it. Cats know that during the elimination process they are left somewhat vulnerable, so moving the box to a more private area should help. A basement or laundry area might be a good option.
Indoor Cats
Never have a declawed cat to spend time outdoors. Your cat will have no way of defending itself against other animals, which means it could get seriously injured or even killed. Indoor cats are the only ones who should be considered for declawing. Even in the case of indoor cats, you should only declaw the front claws. Leave the back claws, as these do not scratch your floors or furniture.
Don’t give your cat medicine that is meant for humans. If you have a sick cat it is best to take them to someone who specializes in animal sickness, such as a veterinarian. Giving your pet medication that was meant for you can hurt them pretty seriously and it may even cause death.
Autonomous, smart and happy; cats are terrific pets. However, you must know how to properly care for them. Remember the included information and you can be the best cat owner imaginable. Educating yourself properly will improve the quality of the time you share with your cat for both of you.