It isn’t easy to adopt a cat and quickly get up-to-speed on how to care for it. It is a bad idea to get your pet first and then make plans. Lovably unpredictable cats can still come up with ways to flummox even the most well-prepared new owner, though. The following tips can put you in the best position as a caretaker.
Be certain your cat has regular vet visits. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due. If there are obvious issues with your cat, it needs to see the vet immediately. Don’t wait!
A tagged collar is essential if you let your cat outside regularly. The collar and tag will make it easier to find the cat if it gets lost. The tag needs your phone number and cat’s name at the minimum.
Don’t allow your cat to get bored too often. Cats require physical activity. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. A bored cat may fall victim to depression, compulsive disorders or issued that can be harmful to their health. Give them lots of space for exercise and plenty of toys they can play with. Indoor cats will be happier if you provide them with climbing resources and practical things such as scratching posts.
Crystals in the urine, an issue many male cats have, can be avoided with the proper food. Passing these crystals is painful and the vet bill to have this corrected is expensive. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. The best way to find out is to read the label. Avoid fish products.
Speak to your peers about your cat issues. It can really help to get advice from fellow cat owners. There are many online cat forums that will help you get questions answered. You could also try asking your vet.
Avoid spending too much time trying to train your cat to utilize its litter box. This is something that comes naturally and is not learned. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.
Provide your cat with a drinking fountain. Cats like running water for drink more than water that is just sitting there. Streaming water is much easier for your cat to take in. Actually, certain cats like to drink right from the sink faucet as it runs. This is a more natural way for them to drink.
The tips you just read will help you care for your cat regardless of its age or breed. These are the fundamental concepts involved with raising a small feline, but the individual circumstances in which they apply will change from one person to the next. Having fun with a new cat is the most vital concept!