Would you save the life of an animal if you could? There are literally millions of cats who are stuck in shelters through no fault of their own, and they need a loving forever home. Keep reading to find out what you need to know about adopting and caring for a cat.
Make frequent checkups with your vet to keep your cat healthy. Your vet can give you an idea of your cat’s overall health, in addition to administering any shots it may need. Your cat will be more comfortable if you continue using the same vet. That way, the doctor will be familiar with the history of your cat.
A cat’s claws can do significant damage to your home and belongings. If you are having problems with your cat clawing up furniture, then purchase a scratching post or kitty tower. Give them some encouragement and let them know it is okay to scratch that. It may take some time, but will be worth the effort and expense.
Be sure you show your cat lots of love. Cats give us a lot of love, and they deserve to be loved back. Cats need a social life with people just like you do with other people. They’ll know they are accepted as members of the family if they get plenty of loving attention.
If your cat is traveling with you, remember their ears. You may enjoy it, but it could be hurting your cat’s ears. To ensure your cat’s trip is pleasant, turn off the music or keep the volume low.
Cats and small children may not always mix. Spend time instructing your children on cat care. You should show them everything from how to properly carry the cat to the best ways to play with it. Cats should be handled more gently since their bones are more fragile than those of dogs.
Feed canned food to your cat. While dry food is less costly, the canned food has added benefits. They have more water, protein and fat too. It’s much easier for older cats to chew it as well. Speak with your veterinarian before making any major changes, however in general, canned food is better for your cat.
Be patient with your pets when you introduce a second cat into your home. There will be an inevitable adjustment period as your two cats get to know each other. Do not expect an instant friendship. Instead, look for them to hide frequently, hiss and possibly even become physical with each other. Your cats will grow used to the presence of the other animal and will eventually get along.
Long-haired breeds are pretty, but understand how much work they are before you get one. That hair will truly get everywhere! Unless you are prepared to do more cleaning, don’t buy a long haired cat. More, and longer hair, usually means more hairballs too.
Litter Box
If you notice that your cat has stopped using its litter box, you’ll want to contact your vet. Many feline health conditions can cause a cat to urinate and defecate in random places outside of their litter box. Kidney, bladder and infection issues can make this occur. If your pet stops using the litter box then see your veterinarian.
When your cat is due to deliver babies, ensure that she has a comfortable area with some space. Since there are so many kittens, the birthing process can take a few hours. If your cat has still not given birth to all her kittens after six hours, get her to a vet right away.
Have your cat sport a collar that includes information regarding the owner’s name, address and telephone number. Even house cats run the risk of getting loose. Should this occur, your cat can be returned to you or someone can contact you with his whereabouts.
Your diet isn’t necessarily the best thing for your cat; some foods just aren’t good for them. Garlic and onions are popular examples. If your cat eats these things then it can become ill or even die. Milk upsets a cat’s stomach, too.
Keep cats inside as much as you can, or at least close to you or your home. Indoor cats live longer than others allowed to walk around the neighborhood freely. Exercising every day with the owner doesn’t come with the risks of disease or attack that other cats face roaming the wild.
Never make the choice of giving your cat human medication. If your cat needs medication, then you should take your cat to the vet. Using human medicine for your cat is harmful and can even cause their death.
You want to be watchful regarding panting. Dogs pant as a way to release heat from their bodies. Your cat will pant if it is nervous or overheated but it could also be the sign of a more serious health problem. Be sure and make an appointment with your vet if you notice any respiratory problems with your cat.
You should be proud that you are giving love to a cat. You’re offering your home and love to an animal that desperately needs it. This will most certainly cause a strong bond to form, lasting even longer than the animal is alive. Take good care of your cat and she will be your companion for years to come.
