Cats are magical critters. They are smart, independent and loving. Taking care of a cat can be a challenge, however. Read this article to educate yourself on several helpful cat care tips, and apply what you learn to ensure that your cat stays happy and healthy.
Cats need a certain amount of grooming to stay healthy and presentable. Brushing is a very important component towards taking care of your cat. This will keep your cat’s coat clean. Doing this will also help alleviate hairballs and excessive shedding. A well groomed cat will be much more pleasant for everyone and will also help you keep your home clean.
Flea Products
Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. Your cat will have a bad reaction to anything that has been specifically formulated for a dog. This is especially true of flea products. Canine flea products can be lethal to a cat. In fact, it is a good idea to separate your cat and dog for a few hours after your dog has taken flea medication.
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. Even if the tag just has your phone number, it can be the difference between your pet coming home and being lost forever.
Cats are frequently nocturnal in their habits. This means that they will usually be quite active at night. One way to deal with a kitten’s playful activity at night is just to shut your door. You won’t be able to hear their sounds as they walk around in the middle of the night.
Give your cat lots of attention and love. Cats need companionship as much as we do. Cats need social time with the family just like people do so that they know that they are valued. Cats want to feel loved and needed.
If you cat is overly vocal, try to figure out exactly why he or she is making so much noise. If you stay around a cat for a period of time you will figure out what their verbal cues mean. It could be she’s hungry or needs to go outside. Know what your cats cries mean so that you’re able to understand the cat more.
Do you happen to own both a dog and a cat? Keep in mind that the two animals have separate dietary needs, and dogs will try cat food if given the chance. Consider placing the cat food on a location away from where the dog can reach. Doing this will also help you avoid fights over the water bowl.
Never punish the cat if he or she causes a mess outside the litter box. Usually, this sort of thing happens when the box isn’t being tended to properly. If you get mad, they’ll never use the box again.
Drinking Fountain
You need to provide your cat with a drinking fountain. In nature, a cat prefers to drink from running streams. House cats prefer this as well. Cats prefer to drink water that is streaming. Cats often like the running water more than their own bowl of water. A drinking fountain designed for your cat is the ideal solution to keep the cat happy.
If you notice that your cat isn’t using its’ litter box anymore, you need to take note. There are a number of medical issues that can cause your cat to suddenly stop using their box. This is especially true if the cat has kidney or bladder problems. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.
When a dog wags its tail, the reason is because it is happy for some reason. Cats move their tails too, but it’s not for the same reason. If your cats tail is wagging, it could indicate that the animal is facing a fight-or-flight situation. It also suggests possible conflict or uncertainty. If your cat starts wagging its tail while you hold it, you might want to set it down to avoid getting scratched and swatted.
Never allow your cat to be exposed to phenol chemicals. A lot of household cleaners have this in them, so you should read the labels before using them around your cat. The smell offends them and being exposed to it for several hours can cause liver problems.
Cats are really good at smelling, and that means they’re good at figuring out if something in their environment has changed. This may cause a problem if you give them a new bed, scratching post or food dish. Don’t be upset if the cat does not take to these items immediately. They’ll get used to it given time.
If your cat is prone to hairballs and additional brushing has no effect, you may be able to resolve the problem in other ways. Mix one teaspoon of pumpkin into your cat’s regular food. A teaspoon of tuna can water can be mixed with it for flavor’s sake. Another solution may be to use a cat food that has anti-hairball properties added.
Make sure that your cat is eating dry food when possible. Kittens have small teeth so they need soft food. As they develop adult teeth, the harder dry food helps to keep their teeth strong. If you have a picky eater, you might want to try blending wet food with dry food.
Cats are unique creatures who can make wonderful pets if you learn all you can. Use these tips at your discretion. Use these tips to help your beloved cat enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life.