When it comes to owning a great pet, you can’t go wrong with a cat. Those who have never owned a cat before would be wise to read the following article. Continue reading for some advice you can use when you live with a cat.
Make sure your cat is always well groomed. Brush your cat’s fur often to help it be shiny and healthy. If you do this often, their coat will stay clean. It can cut down on shedding and spitting up hairballs, too. If you groom your cat with care, both your pet and your home will look their best.
Cats can get into even the tiniest of spaces. If they have to wear a collar then there may be a risk because your cat could end up getting stuck. A breakaway collar is a good option since it will break if your cat pulls on it. This could save your cat’s life!
Flea Products
Never use any product intended for dogs on a cat. Cats don’t like dog products. Flea products should not be used on cats in any circumstance. When used on your cat, flea products for dogs can be lethal. Make sure to separate your cat from your dog after spraying.
Make sure your cat has a collar and tag if outside. Cats enjoy traveling far away, so a tag can help your cat get back home when lost. The tag should contain your phone number as well as your cat’s name.
Don’t allow your cat become bored. Cats need play and exercise like other pets. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. Bored cats can develop depression and other harmful health conditions. Provide them with space to exercise and lots of toys to play with. Indoor cats will appreciate having a structure they can climb on or a dedicated scratching post.
If your cat is male, understand that he could develop crystals inside his urine, which can be very painful to him. Therefore, prevent this issue from occurring in the first place by feeding your cat the right type of food. It is painful for your cat to pass these crystals and the cost to have this treated by a vet is high. Make sure your cat’s food is not high in magnesium. Be sure that you read the label. Fish products can have more magnesium when compared to poultry.
Reconsider having an outdoor cat. This can be very unsafe for your cat. Your cat could get parasites, or worse. Other animals and vehicles could also injure your cat. If you think your pet needs to go outside, think about enclosing a back patio with metal mesh or some type of heavy screen to keep your cat inside, yet allow them to experience the outdoors.
You should brush your cat on a regular basis. Brushing spreads natural oils through the fur and also stimulates circulation. It can also reduce the amount of loose hair they have. This is a good way to avoid hairballs, which are a serious health problem since they can cause choking.
Rotate the variety of food you feed your cat. If they only eat the same food, they may never eat another food in the future.
Go pick yourself up one of those water fountains for cats. In the wild, cats prefer running water to drink from, and they do in the home as well. Cats react better to a moving water stream. You have perhaps noticed that your cat enjoys drinking from the running sink. A fountain will give them the same effect, and it is more environmentally friendly.
Canned food is usually the best option for your cat. Dry food may cost less, but canned food has more benefits. Your cat will get more water and more vitamins and protein. Aging cats find it makes it much easier to chew. Ask your vet, though canned food is often better for your cat.
Becoming a cat owner is a terrific idea. Cats provide plenty of affection and stress relief to their owners. Still, it is important to learn as much as possible about cat care so that both of you are happy. Take the tips above to heart, and carve out a life that the two of you can enjoy.