A well-tended cat is a family member, just as beloved as the two-legged variety. That is why it is important to know all you can about its care. They can really affect a cat’s well being. Keep reading to better care for your cat.
Cats enjoy getting into spaces that are small. If they have a collar on, this can be dangerous. The advantage to a breakaway type collar is that if enough pressure is put on it, it will just let go rather than strangle the cat. This can make the difference in whether your cat have nine lives or only a couple of them.
A lot of cat owners have a hard time keeping their cats off the counter. Cats have a natural predilection for staking out a nice elevated place where they have a good view of their surroundings. One good way to beat this problem is by giving your kitty some safe, high perches throughout the house. Sometimes strategically placing a tall cat tower near your kitchen will help.
Don’t let your cat get frequently bored. They need exercise and they get it through play. Sometimes, cat owners don’t realize this. A lack of stimulation can lead to psychological or medical problems for your cat, including depression, compulsive disorders, and chronic misbehavior. Give them plenty of space to roam and provide them with toys to give them some exercise. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.
You have to place a litter box correctly. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals. To minimize odors, keep it in a spot that’s well ventilated. Your cat and your nose will thank you for the effort.
A cat generally spends quite a bit of time grooming itself. Hairballs are more common in long-haired cats. There is a special food on the market that does help out with hairball issues. Look for cat food that is designed to minimize hairballs to keep you and your cat happier.
When your cat accompanies you on a trip, remember to consider the health of their ears. Although you might enjoy jamming to your music, understand that cats prefer peace and quiet. If your cat seems upset or agitated, turn down the music and speak calmly to him.
Pay attention and try to figure out what is causing your cat to meow. If you have spent any significant amount of time around your cat, you will quickly find you can figure out what he wants when he cries. The cat may want something to eat or to get let out. Be aware of the cues your cat gives you, and the two of you will have a better relationship.
Do you have dogs and cats? A dog may enjoy eating your cat’s food when he has the chance to do so. This is why it’s important that the cat’s feeding area is in a spot that’s too high for a dog to get to. This also ensures that there are no squabbles over the water between the two, when the food is gone.
Regularly brush your cat’s hair. This will help spread the natural oils within their fur while stimulating their skin’s blood flow. It also loosens hair that is about ready to fall out. This helps prevent hairballs, which can lead to choking and other health issues.
Give your cat a wide array of foods in order to prevent pickiness. This will ensure that your cat gets a taste of many different foods.
Give high quality canned food to your pet cat. Even though the dry versions can be more cost-effective, canned cat food usually is more beneficial. Canned food will give your cat more water, fat and protein. Older cats find it easier to eat, too. Your vet can give you more information specific to your cat, though canned food is usually better.
A collar and tags are a great way that your cat can be identified if it is found stray. This is very important for indoor cats. Your cat will go out as soon as you leave a door or a window open. Tags should include contact information for you and your vet. If your kitty has medical conditions, this information can be a life saver.
Your cat needs good play time. All mammals love to play. Though older cats don’t have as much energy, they still need some play. Have as much fun time with your cat as possible.
Dogs usually wag their tails as a sign of friendly greeting or encouragement. Cats wag their tails, but definitely not for the same reason. In cats, wagging of the tail tends to indicate conflict or anxiety. If you’re snuggling your kitty and you see its tail wag, it’s a sign you should put it down before you get scratched.
Put a collar on the cat that lists your name, address, and phone number on it. Even if your cat lives in the house, he could always get out. If this occurs, you must be sure that your animal can find its way home.
Make sure that your cat is not alone if you adopted one. In order to prevent them from becoming too lonely whenever you’re away, consider adopting a second cat.
If you want to do your best to keep your cat free from ticks, rabies or animal bites, keep him indoors. Indoor cats almost never get these ailments.
Parasites can be a problem for your cat, just like most cats. These pests will stay on your cat unless you do something about it. By using the advice shared here, you can help your pet to remain parasite free. Your furry friend will thank you.