Would you save an animal if you could? Millions of cats are out there and need a home. The only thing you need to do is bring one home and take good care of it, something the tips below will help you do.
Check out the shelter when adopting a cat. Shelters have great pets available for adoption, and the fee isn’t that high. Taking a cat home with you means that a life has been saved.
Cats are curious by nature, which can end up getting them into trouble. If your cat is such a curious one, wearing a collar is a safety risk, as your feline might get stuck because of it while exploring. Therefore, use a breakaway collar that will come undone whenever it’s being pulled very tightly. This could save your cat’s life!
Make sure your cat sees a vet regularly to maintain their good health. They should go in for a routine check-up at least once a year, possibly more if they need important shots. Cats should see a vet right away if any health problems or injuries needing treatment occur.
A cat’s claws can do significant damage to your home and belongings. Buy a scratching post if you need to protect the furniture in your home. They can scratch the post instead. It may take some time, but will be worth the effort and expense.
Most cats tend towards nocturnal behavior. They are often active at nighttime. If your cats keep you up at night, kick them out of the bedroom. You can keep them from bothering you at night and getting your feet while you’re under covers.
It’s often cheaper to buy medicine for your cat on the Internet instead of through your vet. If it’s an emergency, buying online may not be an option. However, if you buy meds for your cat on a regular basis, you can save huge amounts by getting medication via the Internet.
Think over whether or not you should let your cat go outdoors. The outside world is very dangerous for cats. It takes mere minutes for your cats to pick up fleas, be bitten by a tick or something far worse. Your cat could be injured by other animals, people and vehicles. Cage in an area for a cat in your backyard if they must go outside.
Never try to teach a cat to use a litter box. This will be something that the cat does on its own and it usually is not learned fro another. It’s not a good idea to rub your cats paws in litter. Some people think this is the way to train. It isn’t.
Brush your cat often. Brushing spreads natural oils throughout a cat’s fur, and also helps stimulate blood flow in their skin. It can also get rid of hair that is loose. Hairballs can be prevented this way, which often lead to choking. There will be little need for self grooming and hair build up.
Never punish a cat for a mess outside of its box. Many times this occurs because the box wasn’t well maintained. If your punish your car, he or she is just going to become scared of you.
Your cat should like their carrier. You cannot punish a cat the same way you would a dog. Cats learn well when they feel encouraged. You should place a toy or a blanket inside the carrier and place it in an area where it will be noticed by your cat. The cat will eventually get into it and feel comfy. Then, you will have no problem using the carrier.
If possible, always choose canned cat food. Dry food is less expensive, but canned food provides more benefits. Canned foods are also richer in fat, proteins and will help hydrate your cat. Canned food is much easier to chew for older cats. Speak with the vet, but food in cans tends to be better.
Keep products containing phenol away from your cat. Lysol, for example, has many harmful agents that can harm your cat. The smell offends them and being exposed to it for several hours can cause liver problems.
Don’t give your cat medicine that is meant for humans. If your cat needs medication, then you should take your cat to the vet. You can kill a cat by giving them human grade medications.
If your cat is prone to hairballs and additional brushing has no effect, you may be able to resolve the problem in other ways. Mix in pumpkin (a teaspoon’s worth) into the cat’s food. You can also mix in a little water from a tuna can with the pumpkin. Some cat foods include hairball fighting elements, such as fiber, that may be useful.
A cat can get lonely when your daily routine changes and you are no longer home during the day. If your goal is to keep boredom at bay, then you might consider getting them a playmate in the form of another cat.
Caring for a kitty is something that is enjoyable and rewarding. You are giving your love and care to someone who needs it very much. You new little friend will be there for you for the rest of their lives. Having a cat can actually help you to live a happier and longer life.