You can get a better pet than a cat. This article is especially helpful for people who have never been a cat owner. There are lots of great tips here that will help you have a great life with your new kitty.
Regular veterinary checkups are important for the health of your cat. Your cat should receive shots regularly to prevent health issues. For the most consistent pet care, choose one veterinarian and stick with them. This is because this person will know your cat and the history of the animal.
Cats really enjoy squeezing into any and all small spaces. If they have a collar, this can be a safety issue if they get stuck. If your pet is wearing a breakaway collar, it’ll detach if it’s pulled too hard. Using this collar will prevent your cat from injuring itself.
If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. Place a tile made of terra cotta or a similar material in an oven heated to 200 degrees for around 15 to 20 minutes. Wrap the tile in a towel and then put it under the bed. Change it every couple of hours if desired.
If you have to travel with a cat you should remember their ears. You may love belting out your favorite tunes as you drive on the freeway, but your cat probably enjoys softer sounds. Therefore, keep your music or other sounds at an acceptable level.
If you get a cat for your kids, make sure to set clear boundaries in advance. Make sure your kids know where the cat can be. If you want to have an indoor cat, explain to your children that they cannot let it go outside. Establishing these boundaries ahead of time prevents any confusion.
Do you have a cat and a dog? Most dogs will not hesitate before munching on your cat’s food. This is why you should have a feeding area for your cat that is too high for the dog to reach. This is a good way to keep your pets from fighting over food and water.
Watch kittens around kids. Children under 5 years of age should not be alone with the pet. Young children are not yet mature enough to realize what behaviors are dangerous to a cat. Once the child grows up a little, he might be more able to handle the kitten.
Consider getting your cat a fountain to drink from. Most cats will prefer drinking water that is running over drinking water in a bowl. They are more likely to get plenty of water when it is running. In fact, some cats prefer running sink water to their own water bowls. This is a more natural way for them to drink.
Feed canned food to your cat. Food that is dry is cheaper but canned food is better for your cat’s health. They have more water, protein and fat too. Older cats also find it easier to chew up. Be sure to ask your vet about your pet’s food; however, canned food is usually the best for your cat.
Ensure that your cat wears a collar and identification tags at all times. This applies even to indoor cats. Cats love to explore, and if they see an opportunity to go outside, they will take it. Include your vet’s info as well as your own on the tags. This is crucial if your cat requires special medical attention.
Be aware whenever your cat suddenly quits using its litter box. There are a number of medical issues that can cause your cat to suddenly stop using their box. A bladder infection is often at the root of the problem. Contact your veterinarian if your pet abandons its litter box.
You should never give a cat medication that is for humans. If your cat is ill, you need to take him to the vet to get proper treatment. Pets that have taken human medications face serious injury or worse.
Getting a cat is great decision. They offer lots of comfort and can be stress relievers. That said, you must learn how to care for them correctly to live peacefully. Use these tips to achieve a great relationship.