The Basics Of Taking Care Of A Cat

 The Basics Of Taking Care Of A Cat

Are you a cat owner? If so, you love it to death! You will need to care for your cat often as they require your attention and love. However, you are more than capable of meeting your cat's needs. Read this article for some great ideas on how to take care of your cat.

Watch the amount of treats that you give your cat. Like humans, cats can easily overeat junk food. This can cause them to gain weight and may lead to some health problems like heart issues and diabetes. If you do give your cat treats, give them a small amount and make it a special thing instead of a regular routine.

Make sure your cat is always well groomed. You have to make sure your cat gets brushed or combed often. Doing it constantly can help you keep their coats clean. It will also cut down on shedding and hairballs. A well groomed cat, then, is a happy and healthy cat.

Keep your cat occupied by making your own dangly toys. Using soft cotton rope, cut a length of about two feet. Tie a knot at one end. Tie another knot about three inches from the opposite end. Unravel the rope below this knot. Attach the rope to the back of a kitchen chair for your cat to play.

Never have your cat declawed. Many people misunderstand declawing, thinking it is the simple removal of a cat's nail. This is not true. In fact, the veterinarian must remove the top knuckle along with the claw during the procedure. This can result in arthritis pain later in life and many behavior problems, such as biting. There are many alternatives from scratching posts to glue-on claw caps that can protect your belongings from a cat's claws without resorting to such a harsh surgical solution.

Make your own enclosed litter box from a large tote box with a lid. Use a coffee can lid as a pattern to cut a door in one side of the tote. Place the coffee can lid fairly high up on the side of the tote. Trace around it with a permanent marker. Cut out the circle with tin snips or a box cutter. Add litter. Put on the lid.

If you don't want your cat to scratch up furniture, try filling a small spray bottle with water and spritzing your cat whenever he tries. Cats generally avoid water altogether for reasons no one is sure about, so he will not like this. Eventually he will stop scratching to avoid getting sprayed.

Do not use medicine meant for a dog on a cat. This is especially important for topical medicines. Cats do their own cleaning, and if a dog medicine is used on a cat, your pet can ingest it. There are some medicines that work for both cats and dogs, but only use them if the vet says it is okay.

Consider adopting multiple cats, especially it will be spending a significant amount of time alone. One cat can do fine alone, however two are not much more work or expense than one, and can keep each other company and entertain each other. This will stave off boredom, especially if you work long hours.

You should never punish your cat for not using the litter box. Usually this is a sign that you haven't cleaned the box recently. Punishing your cat may cause him to become afraid of you or their litter box.

Do not throw away your cat's scratching post because it is starting to look very old and worn. This is the time when your cats actually most prefer it. Tossing it and getting a new one may cause your cat to find something old to scratch like your furniture.

Cats love to climb trees. This is a natural tendency, that can be hard for some indoor cats to control. If you find that your cat is literally climbing up your curtains, it is time to invest in a cat tower. This will provide your cat a place to climb, in a safer and less destructive way.

Don't buy a closed litter box without first considering the disadvantages. True, it's nice that you don't have to see the contents of the litter box. However, odors tend to build up in closed boxes, making it necessary to clean it more frequently. Covered litter boxes also constrict your cat's movement, which is a problem for larger pets.

When your cat first gives birth to her kittens, resist the urge to pick them up. This is a crucial time for kittens to bond with their mother and learn some basics, so leave them alone. You should be able to have more interaction with the kittens after about a week.

You want to be watchful regarding panting. Understand that dogs panting is normal; however, this is not the case for cats. Cats often pant when they are anxious or overheated, but this may also signal a more serious issue. If your cat is panting, and has a history of breathing problems, call your vet for advice.

When adopting a cat, consider adopting two. Cats are social creatures, and they prefer to be in the company of other feline friends. Having two will help to keep your kitty occupied, and it can make it easier to take care of your new pet. If owning two is not an option, make sure to spend extra time giving your cat love.

You may think that giving your cat a bath will help it stay properly groomed and clean. Bathing your cat is generally not necessary unless they're really dirty or a mishap has occurred. Cats usually groom themselves a lot by using the barbs on their tongues to clean debris and dirt from their fur. Cat are persnickety when it comes to appearance.

You love your cat and want to care for them properly. After having read this information, you can better care for your cat. Use these tips for a happier cat. Show the same love that you expect from your cat.

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