Cats are excellent pets and very interesting animals. Cats are smart and curious, but also cute and cuddly. This combination makes them excellent domestic animals. Caring for a cat takes a concentrated effort. Continue reading to learn more about taking great care of your cat.
Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. Cats can get lost, and they need a tag to be found. You have to be sure you have your pet’s name and number written on the tag.
If your cat is picky about drinking water, invest in a cat fountain. These battery operated or plug in fountains keep water circulating and aerated. Many cats prefer this. A cat fountain will help keep your cat out of the kitchen sink and the toilet. It will also help prevent your cat from pawing water onto the floor in search of fresh water.
Save your furniture with scratching posts and pads. It is natural for cats to want to stretch their claws out and scratch. This does not mean that a cat owner must have damaged furniture. Provide your cat with places that it is okay to scratch and redirect them there if they decide to try out your sofa. Cat scratching posts come in many shapes and materials and some cats prefer a particular type so it may take some trial and error before you find the right combination for your kitty.
Get a scratching post to keep your cat from tearing up your carpet. If you can, get a post that does not have the same type of carpet that is on the floor of your home, so your cat doesn’t associate the two. Instead, get a post that is covered in cardboard, sisal, or thick rope.
Feed your cat a proper diet. Cats are carnivores and have specific dietary needs. Feed them quality cat food that has been approved by AAFCO or the Association of American Feed Control Officials. If you wish to make your cat’s food yourself, make sure you speak with a vet about necessary supplements or specific recipes that your cat needs to eat.
If your cat takes all the ornaments off the Christmas tree, don’t fight it. Begin collecting attractive cat toys and unbreakable ornaments to decorate the tree next year. Be sure not to decorate with potentially dangerous items like tinsel and garlands. Tinsel is a choking hazard for cats and garlands can cause strangulation.
The litter box for your cat needs to be in a good location. Place the litter box away from high traffic areas. Additionally, the litter box should be placed away from your cat’s food and water. Make sure it’s properly ventilated to keep smell down. Your cat and your nose will thank you for the effort.
You can often find better deals for cat medicine online rather than buying them from the veterinarian. There may be times when you cannot purchase medication online, such as in an emergency; however, monthly medication, such as flea medicine, can be bought online. Most of the time, you will get great discounts if you purchase on the web.
Play with your cat. A lot of cat owners don’t do this. They are happy to let their cat entertain themselves. However, playing with your cat can help to mentally stimulate him and give him the physical activity he needs. Use small balls, paper bags and any number of small toys to get your cat moving.
If you are experiencing an issue with your feline friend, seek advice from others. Other cat owners may have had experience with what you’re going through right now. There are online cat forums that allow you to ask questions as well.
Most cats love to lounge right on your lap. As cozy as this can be, it is not always convenient. If your cat has a favorite spot, such as on your lap at the computer it can be hard to get things done. Getting a pet bed for your cat and perching it right next to your chair can help satisfy your cats need to be near you.
You cat will not be likely to be a finicky eater if you vary the type of food you are feeding from time to time. If you feed them the same thing day in and day out, it will be the only thing that they are able to eat later on down the road.
You cat should get cat food that is of a good quality. Check out the list of ingredients of any food you are considering buying. Ensure that an animal protein source, including fish, chicken, or beef, is the main ingredient. Some foods contain a lot of fillers like corn products, don’t buy those. Cats are carnivores and must have a lot of animal protein for proper nutrition and better health.
Do not leave wet cat food in the bowl for longer than twenty minutes after your cat is done eating it. After you see your kitten is done for the time being, throw out the rest of the food and make sure to wash their bowl thoroughly with light soap and water.
Most cats are prone to wax build up and ear mites. You can purchase a solution at the pet store that will clean out your cats ears. You put a couple drops in each of your cats ears and then hold them closed while massaging them for a minute. When you let go, stand back or you will get covered in the liquid when your cat shakes its head.
A cat can be a wonderful addition to the family, as long as you make the effort to learn about taking care of them properly. Study these tips carefully. Use what you’ve learned to enjoy your time with your cat.