Cats are great pets when you know what it takes to care for them properly. You have to learn all you can about how to give that cat the best life possible. This article has lots of useful cat tips.
If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. Even if she spends her time indoors, it is possible for her to escape while in heat, causing an unwanted pregnancy. Having your cat spayed helps to control the pet population and will save you time and trouble.
Your cat’s claws can wreck havoc on your furniture. If you want to prevent or stop your cat from scratching up your furniture, the best thing to do is buy a scratching post or kitty tower for them to climb in. Redirect your cat to the scratching post when they start to go after your furniture. Catnip can be put in the posts or on the tower to help train the cat to use it. Sooner or later, they’ll love to use it.
It’s not easy convincing your pet that the kitchen counter is a no-cats zone. Cats naturally love heights so they can easily see everyone and everything. You can get your cat to quit doing this if you make areas that it can climb up to. One way to keep your cats from continuously jumping on the counter is to install a cat tower near the problem counter.
Many times, cat meds can be purchased on the internet for less than they’d cost if you got them from your vet. Online prescriptions are not the best choice if you do not have the time to wait on a mail order, such as in a medical emergency. The savings can amount to almost 50 percent on regularly prescribed medications.
Just because your family did it when you were a child, does not mean allowing your cat to go outside is a wise decision. Letting your cat outside greatly increases his risk level. Your cat can pick up fleas, or worse. They can get in a fight or be hit by a car. When your cats go outside, keep an eye out to make sure they do not wander too far away.
Cats love heights. Make sure your cat has a safe place to play. You can have a cat tree or even a strong wall shelf. To make it really special, put a bed or blanket up there too.
Don’t teach the basics of using a litter box. This is a natural instinct that cannot be taught. Don’t force your cat into the box or you will traumatize them.
Your cat should be acclimated to a carrier as a kitten. Cats just don’t respond like dogs do when it comes to punishment. They prefer encouragement instead. Leave your cat carrier open and put a few special toys inside. In time, the cat will head inside and be happy. This will make it easier to mobilize your cat.
Make canned food the mainstay of your cat’s diet. It is usually more expensive than dry food, but it is more beneficial. Canned food generally provides more nutrients, protein and fat as well as liquids. It’s much easier for older cats to chew it as well. Your vet can give you more information specific to your cat, though canned food is usually better.
Ensure your cat is collared and wears an identification tag. This is even true for indoor cats. Cats are curious by nature, and an open window or door invites exploration. It is a good idea to include your own phone number along with the name and contact number of your veterinarian. This is especially true for cats with medical conditions.
Cats are popular pets but they need to be cared for properly. Use what you learned here for a happy and healthy cat. Applying the insight learned in these tips will help to ensure that your pet has a happy life and provides wonderful companionship.