Cats are one of the most independent pets you can own. However, this doesn’t mean you can simply let them live their lives without caring for them. A lot goes into owning a cat and the following article has some great tips to show you exactly what you need to know. Read on and learn.
Before acquiring a cat, be sure that you have the wherewithal to take care of all necessary vet care. Cats reproduce at an alarming rate, and spaying or neutering is essential to keeping cat population under control. Check spay, neuter and vaccination costs and packages with local vets and clinics and be sure you can afford to give your cat proper medical care.
Taking your cat in for regular check-ups at the veterinarian’s office is part of being a responsible pet owner. Cats require special shots to prevent illness and the vet can check their overall health. Try using one veterinarian consistently. They’ll understand what your cat has been through.
For a healthier, happier cat choose plain litter over scented litter. Cats like nice, clean, clumping cat litter. Scoop your cats litter box daily and change it completely every three days or so. When you change the box, wash it out with water and dish soap. Don’t waste your money on liners as cats tend to destroy them.
An indoor cat who gets a taste of the outdoors will forever want to go outside. If you know your cat will always be an indoor cat, do your best to keep them from sneaking out. You can try to train your cat to stay in your yard when you are outside.
Prevent your cat from chewing on electrical cords by spraying bitter apple on them. Most office stores sell a tube that you can stick all of your wires and cords through if the spray doesn’t work. You can take loose cords, bundle them up, and stick them inside the tube from an old roll of paper towels. Personal electronic devices should be stored when not needed to keep their cords out of reach.
If you cat is pregnant is with babies, you can expect to have a lot of kittens on your hands. Create a comfortable place for the cat to deliver her babies somewhere in your home. Make sure the spot is big enough for the kittens to move around as they grow.
Have your cat spayed or neutered. Pet overpopulation is a growing problem, with millions of homeless cats and kittens euthanized every year. Besides the problem of too many kittens and not enough homes, unfixed cats can have a multitude of behavior problems. Males who are not neutered at a young age often start spraying to mark their territory, and females who are allowed to come into heat yowl incessantly as they try to escape to find a mate. Kittens can begin to breed as early as 4 months of age, so get your new kitten spayed or neutered as soon as possible.
Use quality food to prevent crystals from forming in a cat’s urine. A cat passing the crystals can be very hurtful with an expensive vet bill to boot. Choose foods low in magnesium for your cat. Just as in the grocery store, take the time to read the labels. Products including fish have a higher magnesium content then poultry based products.
When traveling on the road with your cat, understand that they are sensitive to sounds. Cats tend to prefer gentle sounds during the day. Try turning down your tunes or keeping it off to make your cat’s trip better.
Just because your family did it when you were a child, does not mean allowing your cat to go outside is a wise decision. The outside world is very dangerous for cats. Your cat could get parasites, or worse. Cats can also be hunted by other animals, stolen or hit by passing vehicles. Cage in an area for a cat in your backyard if they must go outside.
If your cat goes outdoors a lot, the chances are good that they come home filthy once in a while. When your cat is especially dirty or smelling like a skunk, you should make an appointment with the local groomer. Groomers will be gentle with your cat, resulting in a less traumatic experience.
If you notice that your cat is not using the litter box as much as usual, you should go and take them to a vet right away. There are several health problems that can cause the cat to stop using the box. These issues include bladder problems, constipation and diarrhea.
Feed your cat a few different varieties of food. This can help him not get too finicky. This will ensure that your cat gets a taste of many different foods.
Your cat should be given food from a can. Dry foods are cheaper but canned foods are richer in vitamins and nutrients. Canned food is rich in protein and fat and also has a higher water content. It’s much easier for older cats to chew it as well. Speak with your vet, however generally speaking, canned cat food is better for your cat.
Avoid leaving a declawed feline outside unattended. Cats without claws cannot stand up for themselves if they encounter another animal. The result could be injuries or death. If your cat is an outside cat, do not have it declawed. Only take out the front claws. There is no need to remove the back claws since the cat does not use them when clawing furniture or fabric.
As was mentioned earlier in this article, cats need a lot of attention and care if you want them to live a happy and healthy life. Make sure to implement the advice mentioned above if you’re considering getting a cat. It is information both you and your cat are sure to benefit from.
