If you could save the life of an animal, would you? Countless numbers of felines are just waiting for a place to call home. To save a life, consider adopting one of these lovely animals and giving it a loving home. This article will teach you how to care for that new cat once you bring him home.
You should get your cat a tagged collar, even if it is not legally required. Cats can get lost, and they need a tag to be found. You have to be sure you have your pet’s name and number written on the tag.
It can be hard to prevent your cat from jumping on the counter. One thing they like about it is they enjoy being high up. One good way to beat this problem is by giving your kitty some safe, high perches throughout the house. Placing a cat tower near the kitchen will help the cats to not lay on the counter.
Litter Box
Put the litter box in an ideal location. The litter box should not be kept in an area with a lot of traffic. In addition, it does not need to be near the cat’s food. You should also make sure there is ample ventilation to avoid odors. Both you and your cat will reap its benefits.
If your cat is traveling with you, remember their ears. You cat is used to being at home and it might shock him to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. To keep your cat calm and collected over the course of your trip, keep the stereo low – or perhaps off entirely.
Use care if you have kids and a cat. If children are younger than five years old, pets ought not be left with them. Young children are not yet mature enough to realize what behaviors are dangerous to a cat. When children get a little older, they develop the skills needed to be around small animals.
Cats enjoy being in high places. Your cat will be truly happy if you provide a place for him to view his surroundings. If you’re averse to cat trees for some reason, a shelf without breakable items will work. The cat will especially enjoy it if you put a blanket on top.
Don’t teach the basics of using a litter box. They will do it on their own and don’t need to be taught. While many pet owners try to introduce their cats to a litter box by rubbing their front paws in the sand, this can sometimes traumatize your furry friend.
Be sure to brush or comb your cat’s fur on a regular basis. Brushing can help to spread the natural oils and stimulate the skin’s blood flow. It also loosens hair that is about ready to fall out. 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. Your cat probably did not use the litter box because it is not well taken care of. Punishments given to the cat will just make him or her less willing to be around its owner going forward.
Feed your pet canned food. Yes, dry food is cheaper, but canned food really has a lot more benefits. Your cat can get more water, fat and protein from canned food. It is easier for older cats to chew. Be sure to ask your vet about your pet’s food; however, canned food is usually the best for your cat.
Make sure your cat is always wearing a collar with proper identification tags. This is essential, even for indoor pets. Cats tend to be curious and open doors and windows can be inviting. Include your contact number along with the name of your veterinarian. This precaution is especially important when your cat has an existing medical condition.
Any chemicals that have phenol should be kept away from your cat. This is a chemical that is normally found in Lysol, Pine-Sol and other household cleaners. The smell offends cats, and it can lead to prolonged illnesses.
Cats will smell changes around their home. This may cause a problem if you give them a new bed, scratching post or food dish. Don’t worry if the cat isn’t happy with the items when you first bring them home. As your cat starts to smell new things in the home, it will get into them sooner or later.
Do not give your cat too much food, as this can result in digestive problems. Eating over the normal amount can cause them to develop serious health problems or become obese. Therefore, ensure you provide the proper food portions to your cat, and keep its diet healthy and well balanced.
Watch out for holes near your home that you don’t want your cat to hide in. Cats are able to fit through gaps that are very small. This definitely applies to kittens. Make sure you know where all the holes in your house to help protect the kitten before it comes home. You will need to repair or at least cover up any of the bigger holes you find.
Think twice before feeding a cat table scraps in place of treats. People food is not an appropriate diet for cats, both because of the ingredients and the manner in which food is cooked. If you really want to treat your cat, try a tablespoon or so of cooked chicken or beef, or a little egg. So long as you are feeding your cat the correct food according to their weight and age, their diet is good.
You should be proud that you are giving love to a cat. You’re making a conscious decision to love an animal and provide it with the care that it needs to survive. You will develop a strong bond with your cat that will last a lifetime. Take care of him and he will do the same for you.