What You Need To Know About Raising A Cat

Of all the pets that you could choose to own, cats are on the top of the list. However, people who are unfamiliar with cats need to educate themselves on proper ways to raise a cat. If you have never owned a cat before, read these tips for important information.

TIP! Drape cords should be kept distant from cats. If your cat plays with looped drape cords, they could get caught around its neck, which presents a suffocation hazard.

Keep drape cords away from cats. These are not great play toys for cats. They can wrap around a cat’s neck pretty easily. This is an extreme choking hazard and should be prevented at all costs. Pin the cords of your drapes up where your cat can’t get to them.

Cats can get into even the tiniest of spaces. If they have a collar on, this might prove to be a safety risk if they happen to get stuck. Put a breakaway collar on instead. This will help you save your cat’s life.

TIP! Local rescue organizations are a great place to look for a new pet cat. They have tons of amazing cats who desperately need a home.

If you own a female cat, it’s crucial to spay it at the appropriate age. Even if she stays inside all the time, she could get out when in heat and end up pregnant. Unless you want the hassle of getting rid of kittens, spaying is the best option for your cat.

Keep your cat from having a shocking experience by spraying electrical cords with bitter apple. If the cat likes to chew on cords, its best to cover them as best you can. You can bundle loose cords together and place them inside paper towel rolls. Any electronic item not in use should be stored away where the cat can’t get to it.

TIP! If your cat is a female, you’ll want to spay her once she reaches the proper age. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! Spaying a cat can prevent this.

The correct location is important when picking a spot for a cat’s litter box. It should not be placed in a high traffic area, and it should be far away from the cat’s food. You’ll want to place the box in a spot with good ventilation to avoid unpleasant smells. Your cat will be more comfortable and you will too.

Cats love to be high up. To keep your cat healthy, provide your cat with a high place to sit. You should install a cat tree or allow your cat to climb on some shelves. Put a blanket on it so they can rest peacefully.

TIP! Put a collar on any cats which go outside. The collar and tag will make it easier to find the cat if it gets lost.

Brush your cat regularly. This keeps the fur well oiled and the skin healthy. It will also remove loose hair. This helps prevent hairballs, which can lead to choking and other health issues.

It would be a good idea for your cat to get used to a pet carrier. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Positive reinforcement is a better training tool for cats. Place the open carrier in an area that your cat visits often and outfit it with a favorite toy and blanket. Cats are natural explorers and sooner or later he will check it out. This will make it easier to mobilize your cat.

TIP! Make sure your cat is out of harms way by putting a little bitter apple on all the electrical cords to avoid them getting shocked. If this does not work, make sure you cover the cords.

Keep a collar with ID on your cat. Even if it’s an indoor cat, this is important. Cats are curious creatures, and you never know when they might wander off to explore. Tags should include contact information for you and your vet. This is very critical if your feline has specific medical issues.

If your cat suddenly stops using the litter box, you should take him to the vet. A change in where or how a cat urinates can signal a UTI or other health problem. Affordable antibiotics can quickly resolve the problem.

TIP! Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Even an indoor cat can get the urge to run out of a door or leap through a window.

Does it seem like cat hair is everywhere? When a cat sheds a lot, brushing is very important. The more hair you see on the ground, the more you should pull out the brush. This will make your cat’s coat nice and smooth.

There are things you can eat that your cat cannot. Examples include garlic, grapes, green tomatoes and onions. When a cat eats these items, they can get very sick. Milk is another food to stay away from.

TIP! Pick the right location for your cat’s litter box. It shouldn’t be put in an area with high traffic and should be far from their food.

Panting is something that you may encounter with your cat. Dogs love to pant. Panting could mean the cat is hot or scared, or something much worse. Be sure and make an appointment with your vet if you notice any respiratory problems with your cat.

Are hairballs posing a serious problem for your cat, and additional brushing does not help to reduce them? Try mixing a teaspoon of pumpkin with your cat’s food. You can also mix one teaspoon of tuna water in with the pumpkin. Some cat foods include hairball fighting elements, such as fiber, that may be useful.

Cat Owner

Becoming a cat owner is a terrific idea. They can help you to unwind and can bring you a great deal of comfort. In order to make your cat’s life (and your time as a cat owner) happy and healthy, you have to be prepared to be a responsible owner. Consider the advice listed above, and help to give your cat a high quality of life while you enjoy his company.