One of the most unique animals is a cat. Their intelligence, combined with their independence and affectionate nature make them a great choice of pet. Taking care of a cat can be a challenge, however. Get some advice here on how to care for your cat in a productive and affordable way, making his life better overall.
Visit your local shelter if you’re thinking about getting a cat. Shelters are overflowing with wonderful cats, and the adoption fee usually covers essential vet care. Adopting your cat at a shelter allows you to save a cat’s life while also helping mitigate overpopulation.
It’s important that you don’t forget your cat and allow them to become bored too easily. Cats should have a lot of exercise and playtime. The unfortunate thing is that many owners of cats don’t realize this. Bored cats are more prone to depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as many other behavioral issues. Give them room to play and a large number of toys. Give them a cat tree to play with.
Crystals in the urine, an issue many male cats have, can be avoided with the proper food. A cat passing the crystals can be very hurtful with an expensive vet bill to boot. Choose a cat food low in magnesium. The best way to find out is to read the label. Fish products are usually higher in magnesium.
Do you own a dog and a cat? Understand that dogs will usually eat cat’s food if they can. For this reason, you need to place your cat’s bowl in an area that is to high for a dog to reach. In doing so, you prevent spats and spitting over competition for water.
Be careful when leaving your cat with your children. This is especially true if your child is less than five years old. Young children are not yet mature enough to realize what behaviors are dangerous to a cat. Find your child’s age of maturity when it comes to handling pets.
Unlike most humans, cats love heights. Designating a high-up area where your cat can hang out and watch everything from will help him to feel comfortable. If a cat tower is not ideal, a simple shelf that does not have any breakable items can work. You could even place a small bed or blanket on the shelf to make your cat feel more comfortable.
Avoid spending too much time trying to train your cat to utilize its litter box. Cats instinctively understand what to do and teaching is not required. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.
Don’t toss an older scratching post just because it looks worn. You may believe that it’s in terrible condition, but cats typically prefer it this way. If you throw it away too soon, that cat may look to your furniture for some clawing while it slowly breaks in a new scratching post.
Cats are neat animals. If you learn as much about them as possible, they also make great pets. Be sure to master the advice that you have just read. Keep reading, and use these tips to take proper care of your pet.