There is a lot that goes into owning a cat. That said, it isn’t like grooming a cat. A little extra care and attention is needed to keep them looking good. Read on for useful tips for cat care.
Ensure that your cat goes to the vet often so that they are healthy. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due. Cats should visit the vet right away if they are having any issues.
It’s not easy convincing your pet that the kitchen counter is a no-cats zone. Cats enjoy going into high places so that they can see what’s going on around the house. Therefore, you should create high areas for resting. For example, give them a cat tower nearby.
Microchips are an increasingly popular form of pet protection. Even indoor cats may get out of your home at some point. While a collar with a tag is useful, remember that your cat may be able to escape from the collar while they are away. Collars can also harm your cat if they get caught. A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and can hold all of your contact information. The majority of veterinarians possess scanners that can read your chips. Because these chips are placed underneath your cat’s skin, they won’t get lost.
The litter box for your cat needs to be in a good location. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals. The area should also be well ventilated so that it doesn’t smell too badly. Your cat and your nose will thank you for the effort.
Give your cat plenty of love and affection. Cats need companionship as much as we do. Similar to people, cats like to socialize and feel as if they are important to their family. Cats want to feel loved and needed.
If you get a cat for your kids, make sure to set clear boundaries in advance. Make sure your children are aware of rooms that are open to your cat. If your have an indoor-only cat, be sure the kids understand that the cat is not to go outside. By making the rules well known to your children, your children will understand what is and is not allowed.
Consider all the options before you let your cat be an outdoors cat. This can compromise your cat’s safety. You cat can get fleas and contract diseases. It can also be potentially hurt by cars, people or other animals. 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.
Do you happen to own both a dog and a cat? Dogs take every opportunity they can get to eat the cat’s food. You should create a feeding space for the cat that is much too high for a dog to get to. This will ensure they don’t fight over food or water, too.
If your cat experiences major problems, don’t be afraid to talk to other cat owners. Though you want to handle problems on your own, you may require advice from others who own cats. You can find online cat forums to ask questions, or you can speak with your vet.
Give your cat a wide array of foods in order to prevent pickiness. If you feed them the same thing day in and day out, it will be the only thing that they are able to eat later on down the road.
Aired Cat
If you are considering a long-haired cat breed then you should also consider the extra maintenance required. That hair will truly get everywhere! Realize the extra effort needed to keep a long-haired cat. Be prepared to deal with hairballs, which are a problem for long-haired cats.
If you notice that your cat isn’t using its’ litter box anymore, you need to take note. This could be a side effect of a health problem. For example, the behavior may be caused by an infection of the kidneys or bladder. Be sure to go see your vet if your cat stops using its box.
Make sure your cat’s collar has important information, such as your address, phone number and name. The cat may get out if it has a chance to, even house cats do this. Do everything possible to make sure your cat is returned safely to you in the event it gets out.
Don’t give your cat medicine that is meant for humans. If your cat is suffering from a medical condition, be sure and take them to a vet to get the proper medication. Giving the cat medication that wasn’t meant for them can really hurt them or even kill them.
Cats are able to smell very well and will notice changes to their environment. This may cause some problems when introducing new beds, scratching posts, or food dishes. The cat may be leery of the new additions at first. As the item takes assimilates the smell of his home, it will become acceptable to your cat.
Panting is not a normal response for a cat. For dogs, panting is typical behavior. Panting sometimes means your cat might be overheated or perhaps anxious, but it also can sometimes mean something even more serious. Contact your vet right away, especially if they’ve had respiratory issues a while back.
A clean cat is a happy cat. Do whatever you can to make sure your cat is happy. Your cat will be happier and healthier if you take good care of it. Use the advice you’ve read to help you groom your cat regularly.