Cats are very loving and intelligent creatures. However, if you decide to own a cat, you need to educate yourself on proper cat-care ideas. Understand that a cat requires a lot of care, but entertaining them doesn’t cost a lot. Keep these tips in mind for a good outcome.
Contact local shelters if you want to adopt a cat. Shelters around the country are overflowing, and the cats there need more humans to help. Adoption fees often include things like spaying or neutering them, shots or other vet care. Adopting your cat through a shelter means you are helping to control the cat population and saving a life at the same time.
Brush and trim your cat’s fur often to keep it looking sharp. Cats should have regular combings. This helps them keep their precious coat properly clean at all times. It also reduces their shedding and hairballs. A well groomed cat, then, is a happy and healthy cat.
Part of caring for your cat is taking it to regular veterinarian checkups. Your cat should always go to the vet for a check up, especially if they need shots. Never hesitate to have your cat checked out if you think that something is wrong; remember that your cat can not tell you they are not feeling well.
Think about getting a microchip for your feline friend. Indoor cats could run out your door or jump out the window. A collar and identification tags can help bring your pet back to you. But experts point out that collars that do not snap apart quickly if your cat gets it caught on a branch or even a bush can accidentally strangle your cat. A teeny microchip can hold your contact information. Every shelter and most veterinarian offices have microchip scanners that can read the chips, and best of all, they chips can’t be lost.
Do you have both a dog and a cat? Keep in mind that the two animals have separate dietary needs, and dogs will try cat food if given the chance. Because of this, you should make the place that your cat food is in higher up so that the dog cannot reach it. This is a good way to keep your pets from fighting over food and water.
Think twice before leaving a child alone with a kitten. Children under 5 years of age should not be alone with the pet. They don’t know what harm they can do. As children get older, decide when they show the maturity to handle a small pet.
Take the time to make your cat familiar and comfortable with a carrier. Understand that cats don’t react to punishment as well as dogs. Positive reinforcement is a better training tool for cats. Put a favorite blanket and toy in the carrier and leave it open somewhere the cat frequents. Over time, the cat will feel comfortable and go inside the carrier. Let it happen naturally or with only mild coaxing. Do not get angry. This makes transporting much easier.
Plan on spending the money for good cat food that contains the nutrients that your cat needs. Always look at the ingredients first. You want to see either fish, chicken or beef noted. Don’t give your cat foods that have corn or other elements that have no protein. Cats are meant to eat meat, and that means that they need to have foods that are high in protein.
Make sure your cat has identification and a collar all the time. Even if your cat is a house cat, this is still a good idea. Cats are curious creatures, and you never know when they might wander off to explore. Tags with your veterinarian’s info and your contact number should be worn. Include medical issues if appropriate.
If you take advantage of this advice, you can start having happy times with your cat this instant. While each cat responds differently to food, toys, and care, you can be sure that your efforts will not go unappreciated. Your cat will live much longer when they are healthy, happy and active.
