When it comes to owning a great pet, you can’t go wrong with a cat. If you have never had one, you should read this article before getting one. The tips below are what every owner must know to have a happy life with their cat.
Keep your cat groomed. Cats require frequent brushing or combing. This can keep them clean. This will also reduce things like shedding and hairballs because it keeps them from having extra hair. Keeping your cat nicely groomed will keep him and your home looking their best.
Take your cat in for regular vet exams. Your cat should have regular well visits, as well as all the recommended vaccinations for his age. Make sure you keep the same veterinarian for your pet throughout its life. This one vet will be aware of the cat’s history.
Cats like sneaking into small spaces. If they have a collar on, this can be dangerous. The advantage to a breakaway type collar is that if enough pressure is put on it, it will just let go rather than strangle the cat. This can keep your cat alive.
If you have a female cat it is important to have her spayed once she becomes old enough. Even if you own an indoor cat, it might produce many kittens if it escapes during mating season. Getting your cat spayed is the best in regards to prevention.
In order to be sure your cat is healthy, take them to their vet regularly. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due. Don’t hesitate to take your cat to the vet immediately if you notice anything unusual about their health or if they are injured.
Don’t let your cat’s days pass without stimulation and excitement! Cats need play and exercise. Unfortunately, lots of people who own cats neglect this. Bored cats will quickly wreck your home or become obese. Give them room to play and a large number of toys. You need to provide your cats with something they can climb and scratch.
Cats will often devote most of their time to grooming. Hairballs are more common in long-haired cats. To assist your cat if it has this problem, you should get food that’s special. There are foods that are made to reduce the frequency of hairballs. It’s a smart move for your cat and your sanity.
A proper diet for male cats will help prevent kidney problems that cause them to pass crystals with their urine. The cat is in pain passing the crystals, and the correction for this is costly. Try to find a cat food that has a low level of magnesium. Check the label. Poultry-based foods are generally lower in magnesium than fish.
Often, the best cat medicine deals are found online. There may be times when you cannot purchase medication online, such as in an emergency; however, monthly medication, such as flea medicine, can be bought online. However, if your pet gets regular prescriptions for a chronic or ongoing issue, you can often save up to 50 percent by shopping online.
When traveling on the road with your cat, understand that they are sensitive to sounds. While you may like some good tunes, your cat is going to appreciate other things. To keep you cat from feeling nervous, keep the volume at a lower level. A trip is already stressful for a pet.
Splurge on your cat’s food. Always look at the ingredients first. You want to see either fish, chicken or beef noted. Any foods with non-protein sources, such as corn, should be avoided. Cats in the wild are meat eaters, and domestic cats need meat to ensure optimum health.
Feed canned food to your cat. Dry food is cheaper, but some wet foods have more benefits. There is more water, more fat and more protein in it. If your cat is getting older, canned food is easier to chew as well. Can food is generally better, but consult your vet first before feeding it to your cat.
Frequent urination outside the litter box may indicate a visit to the vet is required. This may be a symptom of an infection of the urinary tract or another health problem in your cat. Affordable antibiotics can quickly resolve the problem.
So, you have a cat or you are thinking about getting a cat. They are a source of comfort and reduce stress. However, if you and your pet are going to peacefully coexist, you need to take good care of it. Take the tips above to heart, and carve out a life that the two of you can enjoy.