When it comes to pets, there is no animal like a cat. They have a loving nature at times, and yet are strangely intelligent and independent. Caring for cats in proper ways, though, it not always that simple. You can educate yourself about helpful tips to care for your cat and keep him happy and healthy by reading this article.
Do not use dog products on your cat. Cats can have strong negative reactions to a product that is formulated for a dog. Flea products should not be used on cats in any circumstance. Products used for flea prevention in dogs can be very harmful to your cat. If your dog has been treated for fleas, keep him away from your cat for at least three hours.
Your cat’s claws can wreck havoc on your furniture. Buy a scratching post if you need to protect the furniture in your home. Use catnip or other scents that are attractive to your kitty to encourage him to go there. Be patient, it might take some time for your cat to learn to use the post or tower.
Male cats can develop crystals that form in their urine, so prevent this with the right food. Passing stones or crystals hurts and can cost you a ton in vet bills if they don’t come out naturally. Choose a low magnesium food. Read the ingredient list on the label. Fish products tend to be higher in magnesium than poultry products.
Your cat has sensitive ears, especially in the car when they’re stressed out. You and your cat probably have different ideas about the ideal volume for the car stereo, for instance: Remember that your cat’s hearing is more sensitive than yours. This means that you should keep your music turned down or off so the cat can relax.
Children usually take well to cats, but if you have a small child, you may need to provide some instruction. You need to show your children how the cat should be treated. Give them examples of how to be gentle with it and what should and should not be done. Cats have more fragile bones than dogs so it is important to treat them with care.
Create a tablecloth that your cats can use. A lot of time cats will take their food from their bowls to eat it on the food bowl’s side. This means food spillage that you will have to clean later. Put a placemat under the bowl, or even some fabric so cleaning up is a snap.
If you get a small kitten for your children, make sure they understand the rules ahead of time. You can then teach your kids which areas your cat can go into. If you want the cat to be an inside cat, let the children know he cannot go outdoors. You need to establish some clear rules for your pet and ask everyone to follow them.
Loose Hair
Brush your cat on a regular basis. This will help spread the natural oils within their fur while stimulating their skin’s blood flow. It will also remove loose hair. Loose hair causes hairballs, a common problem for cats. The hair enters the pet’s stomach and they later cough it up.
Do not discipline your cat if it makes a mess outside its litter box. The major cause of such accidents is usually because the litter box hasn’t been given the proper care. Punishments given to the cat will just make him or her less willing to be around its owner going forward.
Give high quality canned food to your pet cat. While dry food is less expensive, canned food is healthier. There is more water, more fat and more protein in it. It’s easier for older cats to chew as well. You should listen to what your vet recommends, though.
As soon as you adopt your cat, fit him with identification tags attached to a collar. Even indoor cats should have identification on them. Cats tend to be curious and open doors and windows can be inviting. Tags that have your vet’s name and phone number are good things to put on the collar. Include medical issues if appropriate.
Cats are unique creatures who can make wonderful pets if you learn all you can. You should go over this article and learn more about how you can take care of your pet. Put the information to good use for your kitty friend so that you can have them in your life for many years to come.