Cats can be a handful. You have many issues to consider when you have one, ranging from different diets to having their nails clipped at the vet’s office. The article below offers tips you can use to offer your cat whatever it needs.
It is always important to take your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups. Your vet will provide your cat with the shots it needs to prevent disease. Your vet can also check the overall health of your cat. If you find a vet you are comfortable with, use them for the duration of your cat’s life. This person will be more knowledgeable on your cat’s history.
You should not use products designed for other animals. Cats are not the same as dogs, and products meant for dogs can make cats very ill. Flea products especially. Dog products that are flea related can kill a cat. If you own a dog, and they’ve been given a flea treatment, you should separate them from your cat for a few hours.
Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If you have a cat that is wreaking havoc, buy a scratching post. Place this device into an area that your cat frequents, and attempt to get your cat to scratch it rather than the furniture. It doesn’t happen overnight but with some patience, you should be able to save your house from the claws.
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Have your cat chipped so you can find him if he runs away. Even indoor cats get out sometimes. Cat collars are a great thing to have in case your cat gets lost, but they also pose a risk if they get caught on something. You can use a microchip instead; you can store your contact information in the chip and it will not bother your cat. Most vets and all shelters can scan these chips to get your contact information and there is no risk of losing the chip.
Your kitty’s litter box requires strategic placement. It shouldn’t be put in an area with high traffic and should be far from their food. Also, minimize the smell by making sure it is a well ventilated area. Both you and your cat will be happier.
Check prices online for your cat’s medication to see if they are cheaper than at your vet’s office. In an emergency, this won’t be much help, of course. But if you have to regularly buy pet medicine, you can save 50% or more on some medicines by buying online.
You cannot teach a cat to use a litter box. This is natural to them and does not need to be taught. A common misconception is to rub your cats paws into the kitty litter however this isn’t a good idea.
You cat needs to get used to being in a carrier. Cats and dogs do not usually respond the same ways to punishment. Instead, cats are more likely to respond to words of encouragement. Put the carrier in a comfortable place and fill it with treats and toys. In time, the cat will head inside and be happy. This will make it easier to mobilize your cat.
Feed your cat a few different varieties of food. This can help him not get too finicky. If they only eat the same food, they may never eat another food in the future.
If your cat has a scratching post that is beginning to look worn, don’t get rid of it. The cats loves it the most in this condition. Tossing it and getting a new one may cause your cat to find something old to scratch like your furniture.
Give high quality canned food to your pet cat. While dry food is less costly, the canned food has added benefits. Canned foods are also richer in fat, proteins and will help hydrate your cat. For older cats, canned food chew easier. Speak with the vet, but food in cans tends to be better.
If you want to buy a second cat, prepare for some time where the cats will be familiarizing themselves with each other. Do not expect an instant friendship. Instead, look for them to hide frequently, hiss and possibly even become physical with each other. With enough time to acclimate themselves to the new arrangement, though, virtually any two cats will become willing, friendly, and perhaps even inseparable companions.
Make sure that you play with your cat as often as possible. Of course, all mammals like to play, regardless of age or species. Older cats might not be quite as energetic as they used to be, but light play can still be fun for them. Make sure you have fun with the cat whenever you can!
If your cat’s about to have kittens, create a spacious area in which she can do so. Giving birth to all the kittens can take hours, so you shouldn’t expect things to be over and done with quickly. If the time has surpassed six hours and your cat is not finished, take a trip to your vet.
Certain foods may be fine for you to eat daily, but not for your cat. Never allow your cat to nibble on garlic, onions or green tomatoes. Grapes, which seem harmless enough, are also a no-no. If your cat consumes these particular foods, it can get really sick. Even a commonly fed food, milk, can make your kitty ill.
If your find that your cat is panting, pay attention. For dogs, panting is completely normal. Panting sometimes means your cat might be overheated or perhaps anxious, but it also can sometimes mean something even more serious. Take your cat to see the vet if you notice it is often panting.
While having a cat as a pet may seem strait forward, it can take a lot of time, love, and money for vet appointments, toys, and food. With the suggestions provided above, you’ll be in a better position to address your feline friend’s needs and even anticipate them before they can cause problems. In the end, your efforts will be worth it.