Cats are a very common house pet but there is also a wide population of wild cats. Adopting a new kitten is a great way to help keep this population of wild animals down and you will find that a cat is a great pet to have. Knowing a bit about the care of cats is a useful skill to have, whether or not you intend to keep one as a pet.
Your cat needs to be groomed properly. Cats need to be combed or brushed regularly. This helps them keep their precious coat properly clean at all times. In addition, it helps decrease shedding, which results in less hairballs. Keep your cat looking at its best by grooming it well.
If your cat is a female, you’ll want to spay her once she reaches the proper age. While your cat may be an indoor one, there is always the possibility it can get out and you wind up with kittens one day. Getting your cat spayed is the best in regards to prevention.
Make sure your cat sees a vet regularly to maintain their good health. Cats should go to a vet at least once each year for a check up, and more frequently for required shots. If there are more pressing health problems, take your cat to the vet right away.
Do not allow your cat to get an electrical shock. Spray them with bitter apple, and they will stay away. If your cat still prefers to chew on cords, then you have to make sure they stay covered. Use some paper towel rolls to tuck loose cords. Put away electronics that have tempting, thin cords when you’re not using them.
Pick the right location for your cat’s litter box. Don’t put it close to your cat’s food or in an area that gets too much traffic. The area should also be well ventilated so that it doesn’t smell too badly. Your cat will appreciate it and so will you.
Grooming is something that most cats do all the time. Your cat’s long hair can cause hair balls. One way to alleviate this condition in your cat is by feeding him special food. Look for cat food that is designed to minimize hairballs to keep you and your cat happier.
Do you have both a dog and a cat? Keep in mind that the two animals have separate dietary needs, and dogs will try cat food if given the chance. This is why you should have a feeding area for your cat that is too high for the dog to reach. This can prevent squabbles over water when their food is gone.
Be careful when leaving your cat with your children. Never leave a pet alone with a child who is any younger than five. You may not have noticed a problem when you see them together, but very kids do not really understand they can accidentally harm or kill a kitten. Once the child grows up a little, he might be more able to handle the kitten.
Don’t think that you can teach a cat to use its litter box. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.
Get your cat used to a carrier. Cats just don’t respond like dogs do when it comes to punishment. They respond better to encouragement. Leave the door to a carrier open at all times, and make the interior enticing with a beloved toy and blanket. Over time the cat will not be stressed about the carrier and will enter it voluntarily. Then, you will have no problem using the carrier.
Scratching Post
A battered appearance isn’t a good reason to discard a beloved cat condo or scratching post. It may not look as nice, but cats love a scratching post with some wear and tear. If you replace it with something new, your pet might seek out something a little more worn to scratch – like your furniture.
Think about getting a drinking fountain for your cat. Cats out in the wild like to drink from running water, so they would like that at home too. Cats seem to like a water stream better. Cats will often drink from a running sink and actually prefer it over the water in their bowl. Fountains keep the water cool and clean.
You should give your cat at least three weeks to grow used to the presence of a new animal. Do not expect an instant friendship. Instead, look for them to hide frequently, hiss and possibly even become physical with each other. Eventually they will grow accustomed to it and start tolerating or even enjoying each other’s company.
Cats need to have play in their life. Actually playtime is very common for all animals, especially cats and people despite their age. While older cats aren’t near as energetic, they still enjoy playing often. Have as much fun time with your cat as possible.
Now you know something about cat care. Cats are prone to a number of issues, but with the right knowledge, you’ll be able to handle all of them. Cats are very sensitive and you should take good care of them. You might even surprise yourself and decide to take a member of the feral litter home with you!