Cats are wonderful pets, if you understand how to take care of them. To be a responsible cat owner, you need to educate yourself on the best ways to care for your cat and find the best advice to make sure your little feline friend enjoys many great years with you. The article you’re reading has plenty of great advice about caring for cats.
Dog Products
Don’t use dog portions for your cat. Cats don’t like dog products. Be very careful with the flea products you use. Dog products that are flea related can kill a cat. After getting the dog treated, keep the cat away for many hours.
You will often find ways to save money on medication for your cat on the Internet instead of getting it from your vet. Sometimes, you may need the medicine immediately though. But, if you’re having to buy pet medication regularly, you will be able to save up to half the price if you buy online.
You need to establish some boundaries if you are getting a cat for your children. Let your kids know where the cat can go. If you’re planning to have an indoor cat, explain to your children that the cat is not allowed to be outside. Establishing these boundaries ahead of time prevents any confusion.
Do you happen to own both a dog and a cat? Dogs will always try to eat a cat’s food. Try locating your cat’s food in an area where the dog cannot go. This is a good way to keep your pets from fighting over food and water.
If possible, always choose canned cat food. Dry food is less expensive, but canned food provides more benefits. Canned food is rich in protein and fat and also has a higher water content. This will make it easier for your older cats to digest. Discuss this with your vet, who may tell you to feed your cat canned food.
You want your cat to be wearing a collar with ID tags on a full-time basis. This will be important even if you have an indoor cat. The lure of an open door or window is very attractive to your curious cat. The tag your cat wears should display your number and your veterinarian’s information. This is also essential if they have specific medical needs.
Litter Box
You should worry if your cat is no longer using its litter box. There are a number of health issues that can lead a well-trained cat to urinate in places other than their litter box. For example, the behavior may be caused by an infection of the kidneys or bladder. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.
You should always try to keep your cat in your home as much as you can. Indoor cats live longer and stay healthier. Cats who live indoors are less likely to contract a disease than those who live outdoors.
Cats are able to smell very well and will notice changes to their environment. It can occur when something new is introduced to the home, like a new water bowl, scratching post or bed. Do not be concerned if your cat does not accept these new items immediately. The object will begin to smell more like home, and the cat is more likely to feel comfortable.
Keep an eye on your cat if he or she is panting. Panting is quite normal for dogs. While panting can be a sign that your cat is overheated or anxious, it can also be a sign of something much more serious. If your cat is panting, and has a history of breathing problems, call your vet for advice.
If your cat is spitting up hairballs frequently, and extra grooming does not help, these handy tips may help. Give your cat’s regular food an addition of pumpkin (about a teaspoon’s worth). 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.
Proper Care
Cats are great pets, but they need proper care. You’ve read this article in full as you want to be a more responsible pet owner. With the proper care and love, your cat will live a long, healthy life.