Cats can make totally delightful pets, if you know the proper care techniques. Every owner should learn the ways to care for a cat. The following article is chock full of handy cat care advice.
A vet trip should happen for your cat yearly. Not only will a veterinarian give a general physical exam, he or she will also make sure they have necessary vaccinations. For the most consistent pet care, choose one veterinarian and stick with them. This also allows the vet to become more familiar with your cat’s unique health needs and personality.
Cat claws are one of the worst enemies of your home and furniture. Think about a scratching post or kitty tower if your cat’s claws become a problem. Encourage them to scratch that instead. They may not take to it overnight, but they should eventually.
Cat Needs
Keep your cat amused. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. The unfortunate thing is that many owners of cats don’t realize this. A bored cat may fall victim to depression, compulsive disorders or issued that can be harmful to their health. Give them exercise space and a lot of toys. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.
When it comes to litter boxes, placement is everything. Never put the box near your cat’s food, and pick a quiet place away from areas that are heavily used. Choose an area that is well-ventilated to avoid bad smells. Not only will your cat appreciate it but you will too.
Cats spend a ton of time grooming themselves. If your kitty is a long-haired breed, the result of this might be hairballs. If your cat has this issue, try changing his food. Some foods have special formula for hairball reduction, which will benefit you and your cat.
Cats are generally great with kids, though small kids may be too rough. Teach your kid how to properly handle a cat. Give them examples of how to be gentle with it and what should and should not be done. Cats have weaker bones than dogs so should be treated carefully.
Never try to teach a cat how to work a litter box. This will be something that the cat does on its own and it usually is not learned fro another. Don’t force your cat into the box or you will traumatize them.
Cats may make a small mess outside their litter box. They’re doing it because the box is too dirty, or they may be sick. If the cat is punished for this, they may become afraid of being around you.
Feed your cat a few different varieties of food. This can help him not get too finicky. This will ensure that your cat gets a taste of many different foods.
Keep old, worn scratching posts. This is the condition that cats most appreciate. Removing the post could cause your cat to look for something else scratch, possibly damaging your furniture.
Feed your cat quality cat food. Look at the ingredients and make sure protein like fish, chicken, or beef is near the top. Look for foods that do not have corn or elements that aren’t protein. You have a carnivorous cat, and a diet consisting of animal proteins is essential.
If you are bringing home a new cat, make sure to give him time to adjust to your current cat. It usually takes about three weeks. They may swat at each other or hiss; that’s nothing to be concerned about. However, cats should eventually learn to co-habitate properly.
Litter Box
Take note if the cat ceases using its litter box. Your cat might have a hard time using the litter box because of a health condition. If your cat is not using the litter, kidney or bladder problems and infections may be the problem. You should take your cat to the vet if you think there is something wrong with your pet.
If kitty won’t use the litter box, try moving it. A cat knows that when it’s going to the bathroom it’s in a vulnerable situation, so you should make sure the box is in a calm, secure location. A basement or laundry area might be a good option.
It is best to keep cats indoors, near you and treated as part of your household. Indoor cats live longer and have less illness and pests than outdoor cats. Roaming around the house doesn’t cause as much risk as roaming the wild.
If your cat has been declawed, outdoors should be off-limits. The cat will have difficulty playing with other animals and may get hurt. Declaw your cat if you plan on always having it inside. However, you should still only remove the cat’s front claws. You do not have to touch claws on the back, as these claws do not damage the floor.
You should never let your cat use meds that were designed for people. If your cat has any health problems, you should take them to the vet and administer whatever he provides. Giving your pet medication that was meant for you can hurt them pretty seriously and it may even cause death.
Cats make wonderful pets as long as they are properly cared for. Good cat owners will review this piece often and take its advice to heart. Applying the insight learned in these tips will help to ensure that your pet has a happy life and provides wonderful companionship.