Any time you have a new pet, you are likely to face a variety of unique challenges. These challenges can also arise after many years with a cat. You should not adopt a cat until you are better prepared. But because they are curious creatures, some mishaps will still occur even with planning. The following tips can put you in the best position as a caretaker.
Cats are curious by nature, which can end up getting them into trouble. If they have a collar, this can be a safety issue if they get stuck. Purchase breakaway collars that will give if they are yanked tightly. That’ll keep kitty safe.
Scratching Post
Your home furnishings can fall victim to your cat’s sharp claws. If your cat is ripping up and shredding your home, invest in a kitty tower or scratching post. You should scold your cat when it scratches your furniture and direct its attention to the scratching post or tower. It may take some time, but will be worth the effort and expense.
Consider having your cat fitted with a microchip. Indoor cats could run out your door or jump out the window. Tags and collars may be able to help you get your cat back, but cats can sometimes take these things off or they could get hung up on a tree or something. Microchips are tiny and contain all your contact information. Nearly every vet and shelter owns a scanner which can read a microchip, and since they’re implanted, there isn’t a risk of the chip falling out or getting lost.
Never let your cat experience frequent boredom. Cats require physical activity. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. Cats that are bored may develop obsessive compulsive disorders, depression, or other issues that can harm their health. Provide them with space to exercise and lots of toys to play with. If they’re inside kitties, get them a post or something else that they can scratch and climb.
Adore your cat! They give us love, and we need to return it to them. Cats need social time with the family just like people do so that they know that they are valued. Make them feel at home.
Cats will often devote most of their time to grooming. Long hair encourages hairballs. There are foods which help combat this problem. There are foods that are made to reduce the frequency of hairballs. It’s a smart move for your cat and your sanity.
If your thinking about allowing your cat to go outside, you may want to reconsider. It can be unsafe. Your cat can pick up fleas, or worse. It can also be potentially hurt by cars, people or other animals. Let your cat go out in your backyard and play on your lawn.
Be careful if you leave a kitten with a young child. Under five, the child needs to be watched. The maturity level isn’t there when it comes to your child. When they mature, they can spend alone time with the kitty.
High areas are ideal for cats. Your cat will be truly happy if you provide a place for him to view his surroundings. If you’re averse to cat trees for some reason, a shelf without breakable items will work. For an extra treat, place a blanket or small bed up there too.
Litter Box
If your cat does not use the litter box, do not use punishments to try to discipline him. Often, this happens when the litter box is dirty. Your cat will become afraid of you if you punish it or scold it too often.
Feeding your cat different types of food helps ensure they don’t get finicky. If you start them off eating the same type of food all of the time and you never change it up, this will most likely be the only food they will eat in the future.
No matter how old or young your cat or where you live, the tips in the article above will help you with training your cat. You also need to get to know your cat better so you can adapt to its needs and habits. Having fun with a new cat is the most vital concept!