Cats are some of the cutest creatures on earth. They're very playful with most people they meet and have a friendly disposition. If you've wanted to own a cat, but weren't sure what you have to do to take care of one, then this article is just what you need. Give it a look.
Set up a nice, warm and comfortable area for your cat to rest in your home. It should be lined with a warm towel or blanket. Make sure to wash the bedding regularly since it can acquire dust, dander, and anything from outside if your cat is an outdoor cat.
If you have outdoor cats, be sure to discourage pests such as coyotes, possums and raccoons by bringing cat food indoors at night. Feed your cats first thing in the morning, and make sure there is no food left at nightfall. orthopedic cat bowl This will keep your cats safe from attack and illness.
Take your cat to the vet every year. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due. Cats should go to a vet immediately if they have any conditions, health problems, or injuries that need to be tended to right away.
Although depicted in countless movies and cartoons, milk is not the best source of nutrition for your cat. Once cats have grown, they do not need milk as a regular part of their diet. Milk can cause stomach distress and bloating. Instead of giving your cat milk, always have fresh, clean water available to them instead.
Protect your cat from strangling by making sure the cords of curtains and blinds are secured and out of reach. When you make or purchase a dangly toy for your cat, be sure to supervise during play. Put the toy away if you will not be around to watch.
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 sure you have a good pet carrier or basket for transporting your cats from one location to the next. A proper carrier or basket should have enough room for them to turn around in comfortably. It should also be easy to clean. Make sure that it is lined with a blanket, cushion, or towel to help it stay comfortable and cozy for them when traveling.
Though a veterinarian will almost always have a supply of medications that your cat needs, it can be more cost-effective to purchase them from online venues. In some cases you may not be able to buy online, in the case of emergencies, for instance. But for routine medication purchases, you may find a discount of 50 percent online.
If your cat has a tendency to eat your plants, you can stop him. You can either purchase bitter apple spray and spray the pot, or you can put a bit of clove oil on a cotton ball and bury it a bit in the soil. Your cat will avoid both.
Consider getting your cat a scratching post. Scratching is something that comes extremely easy to cats; it is part of their nature. Don't force your cat to play with it. Rather, interest him in it by spraying catnip spray on it, or by dangling a string from the top. Soon he'll get the idea that it's there for a reason!
While children should help with the care and responsibilities of a cat, leave the litterbox duties to the grownups or older children. A cat's litterbox can carry diseases and parasites. Since younger children may not follow proper handwashing procedures, this job is better left to those older and more responsible.
Understand that cats enjoy being elevated. To make your cat really happy, give it a place to safely survey its area. If a cat tree is not in your future, providing a stable shelving unit with no small items on it will do very well. Putting a soft cat bed on the shelf can help to add a little comfort.
As stated before, cats are extremely cute. Their playful and friendly ways will have anyone warming up to them in no time. Now that you know what to do after reading this article, you can have a cat of your own. Remember the information and have a fun time with the feline.
Top Tips For A Happy And Healthy Feline
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