Cats are fabulous animals. They are smart, independent and loving. But, it’s not so simple to take proper care of a cat. Keep reading to learn some great advice about cats that will keep your cat healthier and happier for your sake and theirs.
Keep drape cords away from cats. If your cat plays with looped drape cords, they could get caught around its neck, which presents a suffocation hazard. It may actually cause them some serious harm. All drape cords should be fastened and kept away from any harm that might come to the cats.
You can make your old cat feel better thanks to a hot tile placed under its bed. Bake a one-foot tile made from terra cotta in the oven at 200 degrees F for around 15 to 20 minutes. Put the tile inside a towel and place it under the cat’s bedding. If necessary, repeat this every few hours.
Do not allow your cat to be bored frequently. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. Unfortunately, a lot of cat owners neglect this. Bored cats are more prone to depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as many other behavioral issues. Give them plenty of room to exercise and a wide selections of toys. Provide them with an indoor climbing area or scratching post.
Most cats prefer to be mostly nocturnal. Thus, the bulk of their activity will occur at night. Try closing the door if your cats are keeping you awake at night. You can keep them from bothering you at night and getting your feet while you’re under covers.
Cats love to be clean. When your cat’s coat is long, it can result in hairballs. There are foods which help combat this problem. They help the hair pass through by breaking it down.
Put a cloth down in your cat’s eating area. Cats often like to remove food from their bowl to eat it off to the side. That can mean a bigger mess for you to clean. The best thing for you to do is to have a place mat underneath the cat’s bowl.
Cats enjoy being in high places. A cat will only be happy if you give it a safe spot to look over everything. If you don’t want a large cat tree in your home, a sturdy shelf cleared of breakables will work in a pinch. Adding a small pillow or blanket to the spot for napping will be very much appreciated too.
Give your cat a good brushing regularly. Brushing spreads natural oils throughout a cat’s fur, and also helps stimulate blood flow in their skin. Furthermore, it helps reduce all the loose hair. Hairballs can be prevented this way, which often lead to choking. There will be little need for self grooming and hair build up.
Don’t buy cheap cat food. Your cat needs a lot of protein from meat, so read the labels before you choose a food. Try omitting non-protein based foods such as corn from your regular diet. Cats are carnivores so it is important for them to get enough animal protein in their diet.
Make sure your cat always wears identification tags on their collar. This is necessary even for an indoors pet. Cats are naturally curious and a door or window that’s open invites exploration. Tags should include contact information for you and your vet. This precaution is especially important when your cat has an existing medical condition.
When your cat starts urinating often or in odd places, it may be time to see the vet. It could be an indication of a serious health problem. A course of antibiotics often does the trick.
Litter Box
Really consider where you place the litter box. It’s tempting to keep it in an inconspicuous place where it won’t be seen or smelled. You have to accept the fact that easy access for your cat is the first priority in choosing a spot for the litter box. Your cat will use the litter box if it is placed in a quiet place and away from smells your cat does not enjoy. If the box is placed on a cold floor, place a mat under it.
Dogs are known to way their tails. This means they are content or excited and is normal dog behavior. Cats also wag their tails, but for totally different reasons. When a cat wags its tail, it is usually due to conflict and a potential decision of fight or flee. If while being held by you your cat’s tail begins to wag, you may want to put him down so that you are not scratched or hit.
Put a collar around your cats neck that contains your name, address, and number. The cat may get out if it has a chance to, even house cats do this. Fitting your cat with a tag and collar greatly increases the chance that your cat will make it home safely.
Don’t give your cat medicine that is meant for humans. When your cat has health issues, they should be taken to their vet, who will give them any medication they need. You can kill a cat by giving them human grade medications.
Cats have a great sense of smell, which helps them easily grasp changes to their environment. This is why it is sometimes difficult to get them to use something new, like a bowl or cat toy. Be prepared for your cat to be wary of the new item initially. Once your cat becomes accustomed to this smell, he or she will begin to like it.
Cats are unique creatures that make wonderful pets in the home if you take a little time to learn how to care for them properly. Study the tips you learned here. Keep reading, and use these tips to take proper care of your pet.
