It is hard to describe how wonderful it is to have a cat. However, cats do require special care. With cat ownership, comes many responsibilities. Luckily, the article below will illustrate exactly what those responsibilities are. Keep reading and learn a little something about caring for your cat.
Regular veterinary checkups are important for the health of your cat. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up. Try to keep the same vet during the life of your pet. This person will be more knowledgeable on your cat’s history.
Make sure your cat is not too bored. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. Unfortunately, lots of people who own cats neglect this. Bored cats will quickly wreck your home or become obese. Give them exercise space and a lot of toys. Indoor cats will be happier if you provide them with climbing resources and practical things such as scratching posts.
Check prices online for your cat’s medication to see if they are cheaper than at your vet’s office. If it’s an emergency, buying online may not be an option. The savings can amount to almost 50 percent on regularly prescribed medications.
If you’re taking a trip with your cat, be sure to protect its ears. You may prefer loud music as you drive down the freeway, blasting your stereo, but your feline friend likes softer sounds better. Keep the music turned down or off when taking your cat on a trip.
You need to establish some boundaries if you are getting a cat for your children. Let your children know what rooms you will allow the cat to go into. If you want your cat to stay indoors, then the children must understand the seriousness of never letting it out. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.
You should think again before allowing your cat to go outside. Being outside all the time is not safe for a cat. Your cat could get fleas or even worse parasites. There is the possibility they may get injured by another animal, even people and cars too. Let your cat go out in your backyard and play on your lawn.
Is there a dog in your home, as well as a cat? Dogs are known for eating other pet’s food. If you’re having a problem with this, make your cat’s eating area high enough that your dog cannot reach. The added benefit is that you will prevent fights over the other animals food and water when one of them runs out.
Talk to people you know about any cat problems you’re having. You may try to handle it yourself, but you might need input from other cat owners. There are also forums on the Internet which cater to cat parents.
Litter Box
Cats do not need to be taught how they should use the cat litter box. This comes quite naturally to them and is not something that is learned. A lot of people think that rubbing a cat’s paws in its litter box may help them, but in reality, it can be damaging to them.
It would be a good idea for your cat to get used to a pet carrier. Cats don’t react to punishment like dogs do. They like responding to encouragement better. Take their favorite blanket and place it within the carrier. Then leave the carrier with the door ajar in a frequented spot. Your cat will start to venture into their carrier more often, until they are completely comfortable with it. Then, you will have no problem using the carrier.
As was stated in the beginning of this article, you can benefit a great deal from owning a cat. That said, it brings many responsibilities, too. Use the information that has been given to you if you plan on having a cat as a pet.