Do you have a cat? If you do, you know how much fun it can be. Cats are not as easy to please as dogs, but they have their own personalities and can be a great pet to have in your home. Here are some tips that will help you take care of this wonderful animal.
Make sure to keep your cat’s litter box clean at all times. Most cats do not like to use a dirty litter box, much like you would not want to use a dirty toilet. Scoop it at least once a day. Empty and give it a good cleaning once a week or more if needed.
Be careful when treating your cat for fleas. Be sure to consult with your vet before using natural alternatives to control your cat’s fleas. Cats are very sensitive to essential oils and many herbs. Your vet will probably recommend you use a prescription flea treatment, which is usually best for cats.
Cats are constantly grooming themselves, and this is why they rarely need a bath. If your cat gets into something particularly stinky, a bath will not hurt them. If your cat does not like water you might want to wear gloves so that you do not get scratched. You might also want to enlist the help of a friend or family member.
If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost. Ensure that you at least put the name of your cat and your personal phone number on this tag.
An inexpensive rubber welcome mat helps keep cat food off your floor. This is also a great tool to keep your cat from tracking litter out of the box. Black rubber mats cost about three dollars at dollar stores. Put your cat food dish on one and your litter box on another.
Your cat can take lots of time to groom themselves to what they consider “perfect.” If the cats hair is too long, this is what causes hairballs. There are special foods you can give to your cat to reduce 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.
Do not use medicine meant for a dog on a cat. This is especially important for topical medicines. Cats do their own cleaning, and if a dog medicine is used on a cat, your pet can ingest it. There are some medicines that work for both cats and dogs, but only use them if the vet says it is okay.
When bringing a new kitten home, take it slow. It is tempting for children to want to play with the new addition to your home immediately. But the young cat will likely be scared. Give the cat time to acclimate itself to your home and to get comfortable with everyone.
Get a drinking fountain for your cat. Your cat will prefer drinking from running water since this is a natural behavior. Normally, cats much prefer water that comes out in a stream. Cats will often drink from a running sink and actually prefer it over the water in their bowl. Drinking fountains are more environmentally-friendly and they let your cat drink naturally.
You should feed your cat food out of a can. Dry food is less expensive, but there are added benefits to be had in canned cat food. Canned foods are also richer in fat, proteins and will help hydrate your cat. For aging cats, it is also easier to chew. Ask your vet, though canned food is often better for your cat.
It is important that your cat always where a collar that identifies them. This applies even to indoor cats. Cats tend to be curious and open doors and windows can be inviting. Tags that have your vet’s name and phone number are good things to put on the collar. This is very important if your pet is likely to get lost or has some medical needs.
When getting a small kitten to eat dry kitten food, be patient. At first they usually just play with food. It may take a little while, but they’ll eventually learn that they are supposed to eat it rather than toy with it. If the food is moistened first with milk, a kitten may take to it faster.
Understand your cat’s sounds. Meowing is a form of communication, often for food or to get your attention. There are other sounds, though. Hissing usually indicates fear or anger, so you should stay away. Cats also make certain sounds when they see prey. This often sounds like a chirp. Purring may indicate contentment, but sometimes it means nervousness.
When taking your cat or kitten to the vet, or to other places that involve a car ride, it is wise to socialize him to this situation. Try taking your cat, always in a carrier, on short rides, adding time to the ride every so often. Getting your pet used to the car can mean the end of his fear and frustration, as well as yours.
Cats need to have play in their life. After all, everyone likes to play. While older cats have less energy than their younger counterparts, they can still play a little. Play with your cat and give them the fun time it needs.
Cats can be a lot of fun if they are happy. They might never play fetch with you, but a cat is a wonderful companion. Use the tips laid out in this article to help you to properly care for this furry friend. Then, see if you can search out more tips. The more you know, the better cat owner you will be.
