Cats can make absolutely delightful pets. You must, however, know how to properly care for them. It is not as simple as you may think. This article is packed with helpful cat care information and advice. Read on to learn several cat care tips you can apply to ensure that your sweet kitty enjoys a healthy life.
If your cat suddenly goes off its feed for no apparent reason, try tempting treats such as jack mackerel, tuna, or cream of chicken soup in small amounts. These are not complete foods and shouldn’t be fed long term, but they are extremely tasty to cats. A finicky cat may start eating again and keep on when given one of these treats.
Keep a clean litter box. Like you, a cat will generally not use a bathroom that is filthy. Find a quiet area out of the way that the box can stay in, and don’t move it unless absolutely necessary. Scoop solids out a couple time of day. Make sure to dump the whole box, wash it with a gentle detergent, and refill it once a week.
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.
Check your cats ears frequently for ear mites. You may notice your cat shaking their head or scratching their ears a lot if they have them. They are tiny parasites that look like coffee grounds in your cat’s ears. If you have more than one cat, they can also travel from cat to cat. See a vet before using any medication on them since their ears need properly cleaned first.
Give your cats easier access to a window in order to keep your curtains from getting scratched. Putting vertical blinds up will allow the easiest access for your cat, but if you need to keep your curtains, use a lightweight rod that will fall if your cat attempts to climb the curtains. It will keep both your curtains and your cat safe.
If you cat is pregnant is with babies, you can expect to have a lot of kittens on your hands. Create a comfortable place for the cat to deliver her babies somewhere in your home. Make sure the spot is big enough for the kittens to move around as they grow.
Feeding your male cat the proper food can help prevent crystals from forming in his urine. Passing such crystals is a painful experience for your cat, and your wallet isn’t going to enjoy the vet bill. Your cat’s food should be low in magnesium. The best way to find out is to read the label. Fish-based foods usually contain more magnesium than poultry-based foods.
Never reprimand your cat for missing the litter box. Check out the box instead and see if it has been neglected; this is often a cause of accidents. Punishment can make your cat fearful in your presence.
Cats have an uncanny ability to always find their way home. If you move to a new home, keep your cat inside for about a month. This will help your cat to familiarize themselves with the smells of your new place. If you let your cat out too soon, they might go home to the wrong house.
Playtime is important for kittens as well as older cats. The best games are those that involve hunting and chasing. Try to think like your cat, choosing toys like feathers on string. The cat is attracted to the movement of the toy, so he will love to chase it if you pull it along without him seeing you. It is important to let your pet win occasionally, to keep him interested.
Your kittens don’t want dirty mouths either, so take a toothbrush and clean those gums everyday before breakfast. Without proper brushing, cats can catch diseases, infections, and suffer serious side effects. A few minutes daily keeps these teeth healthy, strong, and sparkling. You should ask a veterinarian how to properly brush your cat’s teeth.
Your cat needs to get regular checkups and vaccinations. This is the only way to make sure that they stay healthy and don’t pick up any illnesses or parasites. A veterinarian can provide these services for you. Animal shelters can be used as well if there isn’t a vet near you.
Encourage your child to play with cats by using toys, not by using their fingers and hands. Choose toys that put distance between the child’s hands and the cat’s teeth and claws. During a vigorous play session, an excited kitten is more likely to accidentally scratch its playmate’s skin. For example, you might use a long wand-type toy with a dangling feather or bell.
Switch up cat food flavors. Cats can be notoriously picky eaters. This can be frustrating if a flavor is out of stock or, worse, discontinued. Don’t let your cat get into the habit of eating one food and only one food. Make sure there’s some healthy variety in your cat’s diet.
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.
As mentioned in the opening of this article, provided that you know how to properly care for them, cats make great pets. Study all of the info contained in this article, and apply what you learn to ensure that your favorite kitty enjoys a wonderful life. With a little effort you can be a purr-fect cat owner.
