For as long as people have kept pets, cats have been one of the most popular choices. They’ve been subjects in many musicals, movies, and poems. It’s clear why this is; cats believe they are the boss. Read on to get some input on how to establish yourself as the one in command of your household. You may even pick up a few other essential tips as well.
Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. You should not allow your cat to play with drape cords since they could end up with the cord wrapped around their neck. This could kill them. To prevent this from happening, keep any drape cords pinned away from any eyes.
When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. Shelters have lots of great cats available, and your adoption fee often covers key veterinary services. By adopting a cat from your local shelter, you will preserve a life and will do your part in controlling the cat population.
Part of caring for your cat is taking it to regular veterinarian checkups. Cats should go to a vet at least once each year for a check up, and more frequently for required shots. Don’t hesitate to take your cat to the vet immediately if you notice anything unusual about their health or if they are injured.
Don’t use dog products on your cats ever. It is possible that a dog’s product could cause a serious adverse effect on a cat. This will especially be true if it’s a product for fleas. Your cat may die if you use dog flea products on it. Actually, it is best to separate the cat from the dog once the flea problem has been treated.
Cats can use their claws to destroy furniture and other parts of the house. You need to get a scratching post or a cat tower to prevent your cat from ruining your furniture. Teach them to scratch on it instead of your belongings. This will take some time but will be a valuable investment.
Keep your cat active and entertained to avoid boredom. Cats need to play and get regular exercise. Many owners just don’t have time. Cats that are frequently bored may develop OCD, depression or other harmful conditions. Make sure you give them lots of toys and room to play. If they are indoors, give them a scratching post or something to climb on.
Remember that very young children can be a bit too rough with a cat or new kitten. Spend time instructing your children on cat care. Teach them about appropriate activities and how to gentle pick up the cat. Cats should be handled more gently since their bones are more fragile than those of dogs.
You need to establish some boundaries if you are getting a cat for your children. Tell your kids which rooms the cat is allowed in. It’s also important to let them know that outside doors must be kept closed so that the cat doesn’t escape. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.
Reconsider having an outdoor cat. There are many dangers to your cat outside. They may acquire fleas or much worse things. Your cat may be targeted by another animal, or get injured by a vehicle or another person. If letting your cat outdoors is important to you, let them out in a safe fenced area.
Are you the owner of both a dog and cat? Understand that dogs will usually eat cat’s food if they can. Thus, you must keep cat food out of the dog’s reach. This also has the effect of stopping fights over the water before they start.
High areas are ideal for cats. For very happy cats, give them a safe place where they can look around at their surroundings. If a big cat tree is not something that can easily fit in your home, get a sturdy shelf that can be used as a perch. Install a small bed for your cat or a comfortable blanket.
Acclimate your cat to a cat carrier. Cats never respond to punishment the way that dogs do. They need positive reinforcement. Give your cat a treat every time it does something well. Sooner or later, your cat will try out the appealing space and learn to be comfortable in it. Once the cat is in the carrier, they will be so much easier to transport.
If you offer a variety of foods to your cat, it will be less picky about what it eats. This will ensure that your cat gets a taste of many different foods.
If adding an additional cat to your home, give the cats a couple of weeks to get comfortable with each other. They may be leery of each other at first and fight. But, eventually, they will get used to the idea, and begin to tolerate, and even enjoy, each other’s company.
Haired Cats
Long haired cats take extra grooming time, so think about that before choosing one. That lovely, silky coat won’t look nearly as good all over your floors as it does on the cat. You should not get a cat with long-hair unless you are ready to do a lot of cleaning. Long haired cats often have hairball problems.
Cats often feel as if your home is their domain. By using the tips from above, you’ll soon teach your cat who is actually the boss. Cats are wonderful creatures; apply what you’ve just learned, and you and kitty will get along just fine.
