Cats can be engaging and delightful, causing you to become engrossed in their playful games. However, if you decide to own a cat, you need to educate yourself on proper cat-care ideas. Money isn’t something that you need to have a good time with your feline friend. The following article will give you some great ideas that both you and your cat will love.
Keep your cat away from your drapery cords. Cats can potentially strangle themselves on these cords so it is important to protect your cat from this potential danger. This may hurt them or possibly cause death. It is highly recommended that you keep all drape cords pinned in such a way that the cat can’t see them so as to prevent any accidents.
If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. A terra cotta tile about a foot square is ideal. You can warm it with a 15-20 minute stop in your oven, set to approximately 200 degrees. Wrap it tightly in a towel and place it under the cat bed. If necessary, change this out every few hours.
Be sure your cat gets regular checkups at the vet. They need a check-up one time a year, or more if they require certain shots. Cats need to be seen by a vet right away if there are injuries or health problems that don’t go away.
You shouldn’t ever use products designed to be used on dogs on your cat. Cats usually react negatively to items made especially for dogs. This is particularly true when it comes to flea treatments. Some products designed for dogs could be harmful to your cat. If you treat your dog for fleas, make sure you keep the cat away for several hours following the application.
If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. Cats enjoy traveling far away, so a tag can help your cat get back home when lost. The tag should contain your name and number for contact purposes.
The claws of a cat can really destroy parts of your house and furniture. A kitty tower can really save your furniture. 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. It might take time, but eventually you will see that the damage to your furniture is diminished.
Keep your cat amused. Play and exercise are both important for cats’ well-being. This is sadly overlooked by some cat owners. Bored cats will quickly wreck your home or become obese. Make sure your cats have a wide variety of toys and plenty of room for active play. Be sure your cat has something they can climb and something they can scratch if they stay inside.
Don’t try to show your feline how to go in the litter box. This is not something that needs to be taught. In fact, it comes naturally for them. Don’t force your cat into the box or you will traumatize them.
Brush your cat daily. This keeps the fur well oiled and the skin healthy. As an added bonus, it cuts down on loose fur. Loose hair causes hairballs, a common problem for cats. The hair enters the pet’s stomach and they later cough it up.
Make sure that your cat has a collar on with ID tags on it. This is important even if your pet lives indoors. Cats are naturally curious and a door or window that’s open invites exploration. The tag should have your name and address and also your vet’s. This is also essential if they have specific medical needs.
You and your cat are on your way to happy and healthy lives. As you can see, relating to your cat is really not that difficult at all. Your cat will live much longer when they are healthy, happy and active.