As one of the best pets out there, cats are a pleasure to have, but caring for them can get a bit spendy. Medical expenses, toys, food and cat litter can quickly add up. Here are a few ways that you can still keep your cat and save money while caring for them.
You never want to leave the cords of your drapes dangling down. These can cause your cat to choke if they get a hold of it. This may seriously injure or kill your cat. Keep all drape cords out of reach as a preventative measure.
If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Many shelters are overcrowded with lovable and adoptable cats. Rescuing a cat can end up making a big difference in both of your lives.
Groom your cat. Cats must be brushed and groomed frequently. If this is done frequently, your cat’s coat will be much cleaner. It helps your cats shed much less too, which keeps them from spitting those hairballs up. Regularly grooming keeps cats looking well and keeps your home neater.
Put a collar on any cats which go outside. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost. You have to be sure you have your pet’s name and number written on the tag.
Making sure your cat doesn’t jump on the counters is hard to do. After all, cats prefer to stay high so that they can keep an eye out on everything. You can control this tendency a bit by making high places in the house that you feel comfortable having your cat utilize. If you don’t want your cats to jump on your counters, you can put a cat condo in or around the kitchen.
Litter Box
The correct location is important when picking a spot for a cat’s litter box. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals. It is also advisable to keep the litter box area ventilated to control odor. Your cat and your nose will thank you for the effort.
Be sure you show your cat lots of love. They want warm companionship since that’s what they provide to you. Like most people, cats like to socialize and feel that they are included in the family. They want to feel like a contented and satisfied member of the family.
If you are traveling with a cat in tow, be aware of the noises in your car. You cat is used to being at home and it might shock him to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. Spare your cat’s sensitive hearing by keeping the volume down at all times.
When you purchase a kitten for your child, set rules and boundaries beforehand. Make sure the children know where the cat is and is not allowed to roam. If you’re planning on keeping your kitty inside full time, make sure your kids know their pet shouldn’t go outdoors. Establishing these boundaries ahead of time prevents any confusion.
Let your cat get comfortable using a carrier. Cats are not as responsive to punishment as dogs are. Encouragement is a much better strategy. Take their favorite blanket and place it within the carrier. Then leave the carrier with the door ajar in a frequented spot. The cat will feel safe when it enters this carrier after a while. It will be simpler to transport them using the carrier.
Plan on spending the money for good cat food that contains the nutrients that your cat needs. Check out the ingredients, and make sure meat tops the list. Avoid brands that use non-meat fillers like corn. Because cats are carnivores, their diet need only consist of a good source of protein.
Make sure that your cat has a collar on with ID tags on it. Even an indoor pet should have this. Cats are endlessly curious and may head out an open door or window. Include your vet’s info as well as your own on the tags. Veterinary information is essential if your cat needs medication.
If your cat uses the bathroom more than normal, or if they suddenly stop using the litter box, think about taking them to the veterinarian. Cats can show this behavior if they have a type of urinary tract infection or other health issue. Some cheap antibiotics can get rid of some dangerous illnesses.
Give your cat a collar that features your contact information. Even house cats run the risk of getting loose. Fitting your cat with a tag and collar greatly increases the chance that your cat will make it home safely.
Your cat should remain indoors and near your home. Indoor cats live longer and stay healthier. Outdoor cats face numerous predators and are at a higher risk of disease.
Cats can get the same colds you do. Your cat is a member of the family, so you know better than anyone when your cat isn’t feeling well. Take your cat to the vet at the first sign of a problem. A seemingly minor illness might really be something far more serious.
It’s difficult to deny that owning any type of pet comes with costs and conundrums. They need a lot of help, and it can be just like caring for a small child at times. Although, there are many ways that you can reduce the expenses for your cat and care for it in the way that it deserves.