Lots of people have difficulties along the way after they adopt a cat. No one should get a pet without taking the steps to prepare. But because they are curious creatures, some mishaps will still occur even with planning. The more you know, the better, though, so read on.
If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. Use a terra cotta tile to help relieve your cat’s aches and pains; put it in the oven on low heat – 200 degrees or so – for 15 minutes. Keep this underneath your cat’s resting space for extra warmth. If you want, you can change it for a newly warmed tile a few hours later.
Don’t let your cat get frequently bored. Cats require plenty of exercise. Too frequently this need is overlooked by owners. Bored cats can suffer from depression, extreme compulsive disorders, and other harmful issues that can negatively impact their overall health and well-being. Provide your cats with the toys and space it needs. If you have an indoor cat, provide a kitty gym for them to climb on or a scratching post.
When it comes to litter boxes, placement is everything. The litter box should not be kept in an area with a lot of traffic. In addition, it does not need to be near the cat’s food. Choose an area that is well-ventilated to avoid bad smells. Not only will your cat appreciate it but you will too.
You can often find better deals for cat medicine online rather than buying them from the veterinarian. There are some times when this isn’t a good idea, like when you’re dealing with a pet related emergency. However, for standard medications, like flea medications or heart worm pills, online sources offer a substantial savings to pet owners.
Children usually take well to cats, but if you have a small child, you may need to provide some instruction. Teach your kid how to properly handle a cat. Demonstrate the appropriate way to pick the cat up and how to play with them. Cats have more fragile bones than dogs so it is important to treat them with care.
Do you own a dog and cat? Dogs will eat a cat’s food any time they’re given the chance. This is why it’s important that the cat’s feeding area is in a spot that’s too high for a dog to get to. This will ensure they don’t fight over food or water, too.
Cats enjoy being in high places. Designating a high-up area where your cat can hang out and watch everything from will help him to feel comfortable. If you do not want cats making a mess in your house, remove breakable items from your shelves. Putting a soft cat bed on the shelf can help to add a little comfort.
Do not attempt to teach your cat how to use the litter box. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.
Splurge on your cat’s food. Check out the list of ingredients of any food you are considering buying. Ensure that an animal protein source, including fish, chicken, or beef, is the main ingredient. Don’t choose a food which is mainly corn. Cats are naturally carnivorous. If you want to keep them healthy and happy, you need to feed them plenty of animal protein.
Feed canned food to your cat. Dry food may cost less, but canned food has more benefits. There is more water, more fat and more protein in it. It’s also much softer on older teeth if your cat is getting up there in years. Be sure to ask your vet about your pet’s food; however, canned food is usually the best for your cat.
These tips can work on cats of all breeds and ages. You have learned fundamental ideas on how to raise a happy and healthy cat; however, understand that all cats are different, and you will have to continually change your strategy. Just remember to offer lots of love and companionship to your cat. This is the key instruction to follow.