Cats are amazing creatures, and they can be wonderful pets. If you own a cat, it’s important that you know as much as possible about caring for your pet. Read this article and follow the suggestions it contains.
If you are planning to get a pet cat, be sure to check with your local shelter. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care. By adopting a cat from your local shelter, you will preserve a life and will do your part in controlling the cat population.
Products Designed
You shouldn’t ever use products designed to be used on dogs on your cat. Products designed for dogs or other animals could cause a negative reaction from your cat. This warning applies to products for getting rid of fleas. Canine flea products can be lethal to a cat. In fact, your cat should be kept away from your dog for several hours after the dog has been treated for fleas.
You may want to have a microchip implanted in your cat. Even an indoor cat could someday jump through an open window. A tagged collar might help get kitty home, but it can just as easily come off if snagged on a branch. A microchip will hold the contact information to reach you and it’s only about as big as a piece of rice. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.
Cats are nocturnal animals. They are often active at nighttime. Shut the door to your bedroom. This helps to muffle the sounds of nighttime play. This will reduce the frequency that they wake you up.
Be attentive to your cat and give them your love and company, often. Cats need just as much companionship as they give out. Like humans, cats want to feel wanted and needed. They wish to be a happy and valuable family member.
Online outlets offer better prices for cat medicine than vets. In some cases you may not be able to buy online, in the case of emergencies, for instance. 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 have to travel with a cat you should remember their ears. While you may like some good tunes, your cat is going to appreciate other things. If your cat seems upset or agitated, turn down the music and speak calmly to him.
Create a tablecloth just for your cat. Cats like to make a mess when they eat. This can lead to a big clean-up. Simply place a cloth placemat that will grab at the food under their plate and then shaken out over the trash. You can put a vinyl one underneath that can be picked up wiped down easily if you prefer.
If your cat is excessively meowing, try to figure out why. Over time, you will pick up on the reasons why your cat is making this gesture. Your cat might need food or might want to go out. By taking note of your cat’s cues, you’ll understand it more.
High areas are ideal for cats. To make your cat happier, give him a lookout perch where he can check out the area. If you don’t wish to have a big cat tree inside your house, try a sturdy shelf made of breakables. Providing a blanket or bed for your cat is an extra treat for them.
Acclimate your cat to a cat carrier. Cats do not respond in the same way dogs do to punishment. Encouragement is a better way to get your cats to perform. Place a beloved blanket or item inside the carrier and let it stay open near the cat’s usual haunts. Your cat will want to inspect the carrier and probably enjoy hiding inside. In the future, your cat will not get scared when you put him in the carrier.
Purchase high quality food for your cat. Carefully look over ingredients, and be sure that a quality protein source like chicken, fish, or beef is at the beginning of the list. Corn and other such protein-free fillers are things you want to stay well away from. Cats need meat, not vegetables.
If you notice that your cat urinates very frequently, you should take it to the vet. They’re trying to tell you something is wrong. Certain antibiotics prescribed by your vet can clear up the problem.
Think about extra care before you take home a cat with long hair. That hair will truly get everywhere! Long-haired cats can be very high maintenance over the course of the year. Not to mention cats that have long hair are more prone to getting issues with hairballs.
Litter Box
Pay attention if your cat won’t use their litter box. Health problems may be causing your cat to urinate in places other than their litter box. A potential bladder or kidney infection may be the reason for this. If your cat stops using the litter box suddenly, get him to a vet for a visit.
If your cat is refusing to use his litter box, you should try putting it in a different location. Cats know that during the elimination process they are left somewhat vulnerable, so moving the box to a more private area should help. The best places are basements and laundry rooms.
Cats are excellent pets but being a cat owner comes with certain responsibilities. But they should be treated as the special species they are. They behave differently and have different nutritional needs. Refer back to this article whenever you have questions or concerns. You will be thanked by your cat.
