Cats, like many other pets, require regular grooming. When it comes to grooming, feeding, and care, cats are a world apart from other household pets. You need to ensure that your cat stays clean and looks good. Check out this article for some tips related to cat grooming.
Shop at your local pet shelter for your next cat. Shelters have tons of great cats and their adoption fee will generally cover necessary vet care. Adopting a cat this way helps to save their life and cut down on unwanted animal births.
Small places are spots cats love to get into. If you keep a collar on your pet, getting stuck in one of these spaces can be very dangerous. A breakaway style collar will literally “break away” if pulled too tight. Your cat can preserve a few of his nine lives with this.
Deter cats from shocking themselves on electrical wires by spraying them with bitter apple. If this does not work, make sure you cover the cords. You can hide away any cords inside the rolls that come inside paper towels. If you own electronic devices with thin cords, you should keep them out of your cat’s reach when you’re not using them.
If your cat is traveling with you, remember their ears. Cats tend to prefer gentle sounds during the day. Therefore, try to turn down your music or keep if off altogether so your cat has a better trip.
Don’t let your cat go outside. This can put your cat in an unsafe position. Your cat could get fleas or even worse parasites. They can get in a fight or be hit by a car. If your cat must go outside, try to confine them to the backyard.
Litter Box
Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. This is something that comes naturally and is not learned. Don’t try to force them into the litter box by rubbing their paws or face in it.
If your cat does not use the litter box, do not use punishments to try to discipline him. Many times this occurs because the box wasn’t well maintained. Punishing the cat will only make him afraid to be around you in the future.
Get your cat used to a carrier. Introducing your cat to a carrier as a kitten can really help to make this easier. They prefer encouragement instead. Place the open carrier in an area that your cat visits often and outfit it with a favorite toy and blanket. In time, the cat will head inside and be happy. Transporting your cat inside the carrier will then become much easier.
Feed your cat high-quality cat food. Read the ingredients, and make sure a source of protein, like fish or chicken, is near the top. Any foods with non-protein sources, such as corn, should be avoided. Cats are carnivores and must have a lot of animal protein for proper nutrition and better health.
Drinking Fountain
Get a drinking fountain for your cat. Cats like running water for drink more than water that is just sitting there. Your cat, if its like most, will really respond to this running water. In fact, the running water in a sink garnishes more attention from a cat than their water bowl usually does. A drinking fountain provides a more natural and environmentally friendly way for your cat to drink.
Feed canned food to your cat. Dry food is less expensive, but there are added benefits to be had in canned cat food. There is more water in canned food and more protein and fat too. For older cats, canned food chew easier. Speak with your veterinarian before making any major changes, however in general, canned food is better for your cat.
Make sure your cat has identification and a collar all the time. This is important even if your pet lives indoors. Cats love to explore, and if they see an opportunity to go outside, they will take it. You should use a tag with your contact information and the address of your veterinarian. Also make sure to note any unusual medical requirements.
Be aware whenever your cat suddenly quits 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. If your cat is not using the litter, kidney or bladder problems and infections may be the problem. Ask your vet if your cat begins missing the litter box.
If your cat’s about to have kittens, create a spacious area in which she can do so. It can take several hours for the process to unfold and all kittens to be born, so be prepared to spend some time with your cat. If your cat has still not given birth to all her kittens after six hours, get her to a vet right away.
When your cat is properly cared for, it looks, feels, and behaves wonderfully. Remember that grooming is essential in order to keep your cat healthy – and happy, too! The cat will definitely appreciate the extra grooming. Use the advice you’ve read to help you groom your cat regularly.