The care and companionship you provide for your cat can improve its quality of life. In some cases, it can even save a life! There are literally millions of cats who are stuck in shelters through no fault of their own, and they need a loving forever home. You simply have to adopt one, and the article below will teach you how.
Ensure that you groom your cat regularly and properly. Just like dogs, cats require regular brushing and de-tangling. If this is done frequently, your cat’s coat will be much cleaner. This will also reduce things like shedding and hairballs because it keeps them from having extra hair. Cat grooming will not only keep kitty looking great, but it will also help to reduce the effort spent picking up cat hair around the home.
You need to take your pet to the vet on a regular basis. Cats need special shots to keep them from getting sick, and the veterinarian will check your cats overall health. When you find a vet you like, stick with them. That way, the doctor will be familiar with the history of your cat.
If your cat is female, it is very important that she be spayed when the vet feels she is old enough. Even if she stays inside all the time, she could get out when in heat and end up pregnant. If you want to prevent this, spay your cat.
Be certain your cat has regular vet visits. A yearly visit for a regular check-up is important, with more frequent visits for shots as required. If you notice that your cat appears to be experiencing some sort of illness or injury, do not delay a trip to the vet.
If your cat is an outdoor cat, then you should ensure it wears a tag collar. Cats can roam far, so a tag will ensure you find them quickly when they’re lost. Some required information on the tag would be the cat’s name and your personal phone number.
Put bitter apple on all electrical cords. If that doesn’t work, cover those cords up however you can. Hide those loose cords and keep them out of sight in no longer needed paper towel rolls. If you own electronic devices with thin cords, you should keep them out of your cat’s reach when you’re not using them.
Do not isolate the litter box in a distant place. Don’t put it in a busy area, and keep it away from your cat’s food. You’ll want to place the box in a spot with good ventilation to avoid unpleasant smells. Your cat and your nose will thank you for the effort.
Talk to people you know about any cat problems you’re having. It can really help to get advice from fellow cat owners. There are many online forums that discuss cats. Most vets will also be happy to help you with some advice.
If your cat urinates frequently or outside his box, you may need to talk to your vet. Cats often do such things when suffering from urinary tract infections or other sorts of health issues. Inexpensive antibiotics generally clear this right up.
Understand that all cats need exercise and play time. Playing is an activity that is very popular with mammals of any age, and this includes cats and people. Older cats do not have the same energy level as younger ones, but they still like to play a little. Play with your cat and give them the fun time it needs.
Does your home feel inundated with balls of cat fur? You have to brush your cat to avoid their shedding. If your cat sheds often, you will need to brush him more often. Doing this will also make sure they don’t get a matted or tangled coat.
Stay current on your cat’s exams and vaccinations. Your cat needs these periodic checks and particular immunizations in order to stay healthy. You need to stay up to date with immunization and booster shots to improve the health of your cat.
Litter Box
Pay attention if your cat won’t use their litter box. A common sign that a cat has a medical condition is failure to use the bathroom in the litter box. Issues like a kidney infection are often behind such behaviors. You should take your cat to the vet if you think there is something wrong with your pet.
Put a collar around your cats neck that contains your name, address, and number. Even if you have a house cat, there is a chance that he or she may get out. Do everything possible to make sure your cat is returned safely to you in the event it gets out.
Chemicals that have phenol in the should not be used around a cat. A lot of household cleaners have this in them, so you should read the labels before using them around your cat. Not only is the smell offensive to cats, but exposing them to this chemical for prolonged periods of time can lead to problems with their liver.
Don’t let a cat that’s had its claws removed go outside. The cat is defenseless against other animals, which may lead to injury or possibly death. The only place for a declawed cat is inside, with you. If you must declaw a cat, only do it to the front paws. You do not have to touch claws on the back, as these claws do not damage the floor.
Taking care of a cat is something that should make you proud. The love you give to a cat fulfills one of its basic needs. A bond is formed that will last forever. When you love your cat, it will love you back.