There are usually obstacles that arise when you first buy a cat. If you don’t prepare for your cat in advance, you will be in trouble. But, it is impossible to predict every potential issue that may arise. However, preparing yourself in advance is best, and it helps you be ready for your new pet.
If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. Adopting a cat this way helps to save their life and cut down on unwanted animal births.
Get a microchip for your cat. Even an indoor cat could someday jump through an open window. Collars and tags can help get your cat home, however cats are experts at wiggling out of these, not to mention the risk they pose if they were to get snagged on a bush or tree branch. A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and can hold all of your contact information. Most shelters and veterinarians can scan your pet to read the information on the chip, and the chip cannot be lost since it is beneath the skin.
Never let a cat become bored. Cats should have a lot of exercise and playtime. Sadly, this is overlooked by many cat owners. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. You need to give it new toys regularly and make sure your cat has plenty of space to run and play. If your cat is an indoor cat, a cat tower or scratching post makes an ideal source of fun and exercise.
Give your kitty lots of love. They want the same level of companionship that they give to you as their owner. Like humans, a cat has to be around people in order to feel special. They need to feel as though they are an important part of the family, as well.
Crystals form in urine from male cats. This can be prevented with good food choices. Passing stones or crystals hurts and can cost you a ton in vet bills if they don’t come out naturally. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Read the labels. Cat food with lots of fish tends to have more magnesium, while products with lots of poultry tend to have less.
Do you have dogs and cats? That dog will really love stalking (and eating) that cat food. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. In doing so, you prevent spats and spitting over competition for water.
Litter Box
Don’t think that you can teach a cat to use its litter box. They will do it on their own and don’t need to be taught. Many people think rubbing a cat’s paws in litter will teach them to use the litter box, but it might actually traumatize them.
These tips should be useful whether you have a Siamese kitten or an old Bengal. These are tried and true ideas that have been proven to help raise a cat properly, however there are always individual instances where things change. Remember to enjoy your new kitten because that’s the most important part of the process.