Your cat is a very special member of the family. That’s why you should do everything you can to make sure that they don’t get fleas, ticks, and other parasites. These pests can take a toll on your cat’s health. The advice presented below can be helpful for you as a cat owner, and possibly life-saving!
If your cat is an outdoor cat or a cat that has a habit of getting outside, they need proper identification. The cat should have a safety collar and an ID tag. Safety collars that have elastic bands allow cats to get out of the collar if they get it caught on something. An ID tag or an implanted microchip can help your cat get returned if they’re lost.
If your cat is picky about drinking water, invest in a cat fountain. These battery operated or plug in fountains keep water circulating and aerated. Many cats prefer this. A cat fountain will help keep your cat out of the kitchen sink and the toilet. It will also help prevent your cat from pawing water onto the floor in search of fresh water.
Do not assume that because a medication is okay for you to take, that it is safe for your cat as well. Many medications made for humans are lethal to cats, such as acetaminophen containing drugs and aspirin. Always check with your veterinarian before you give your cat anything.
Adore your cat! Cats are by nature companion animals, but that companionship goes two ways. Cats need a social life with people just like you do with other people. They should feel like a valued family member as well.
Get your cat sprayed and neutered to prevent diseases and infections that form in the reproductive system. This can also help reduce the chance for overpopulation in the country, as just one male who is not neutered can produce up to half a million offspring over the course of his life.
Put your cat’s food on a tablecloth. Some cats prefer to remove their food from the dish and eat it off to the side. Sometimes, this results in food outside the bowl that you have to clean up. You can get a pet mat or use a piece of old fabric to put under it for easy cleanup.
Get your cat a breakaway collar. Make sure it has tags that reflect a phone number, even if you are uncomfortable with an address. Cats can run outdoors or slip away, and you don’t want to worry that you’ll never see your cat again. Make sure that there is adequate information so you can be reached.
Play with your cat. A lot of cat owners don’t do this. They are happy to let their cat entertain themselves. However, playing with your cat can help to mentally stimulate him and give him the physical activity he needs. Use small balls, paper bags and any number of small toys to get your cat moving.
You should do regular checkups of your cat between veterinarian visits. A good time to do this is when you are petting the animal. Check the entire body for things like scabs and lesions. Also look in and around the ears for any discharge, which can be a sign of ear mites. Check the cat from head to tail.
Most cats love to lounge right on your lap. As cozy as this can be, it is not always convenient. If your cat has a favorite spot, such as on your lap at the computer it can be hard to get things done. Getting a pet bed for your cat and perching it right next to your chair can help satisfy your cats need to be near you.
There is more care to consider with long-haired cats. That hair will truly get everywhere! Don’t get such a cat unless you are prepared for the extra commitment they take over regular cats. More, and longer hair, usually means more hairballs too.
Make sure that you change your cat’s food and water on a regular basis. Just like humans, cats want to eat fresh food and drink water that is clean. Feed them at the same time each and every day if you want them to get into a regular feeding routine.
Most cats love to spend time outdoors, but indoor-only cats rarely enjoy this opportunity. While it’s not safe to allow your indoor cat to roam freely outdoors, there are other options. For example, you can use a leash and harness to take your pet outdoors. It’s a rare sight, but it certainly isn’t impossible. You are most likely to be successful if you start leash training as a kitten.
Some cats have aversions to certain types of litter. If you find that your cat is not using their litter box, try switching the type of cat litter that you are using. Only do this if there is a problem. Cats do not like change. The cat may stop using the litter box if you change the type of litter you use.
If you are introducing a new pet into a home that already has a pet, it is best to try to socialize the animals gradually. Both dogs and cats are territorial. If you introduce a newcomer to quickly, the animals may never adjust. Keep the animals separate for a majority of the time and introduce them gradually over a few weeks.
Cats can have medical problems, just like humans. Parasites will remain with your cat until taken care of. Featured methods can be used to remove them. This will make life happier for your cat and you, too.
