Having a cat in your home can be a wonderful experience. You are responsible for learning and using what you have learned to provide the best life for your cat. Read this article carefully if you want great advice on cat care.
Check out the shelter when adopting a cat. Shelters are overflowing with wonderful cats, and the adoption fee usually covers essential vet care. When adopting a shelter cat, you’re saving a life and aiding in controlling the cat population.
To safely help an old cat feel comfortable, place a heated tile under its bed. A terra cotta tile about a foot square is ideal. You can warm it with a 15-20 minute stop in your oven, set to approximately 200 degrees. Wrap the tile in a towel and then put it under the bed. If necessary, you can change out the tile after a few hours to provide continued warmth.
If your cat is female, you need to get it spayed at the proper age. This is true even if you think your cat is indoors only. One escape can lead to a lot of small kittens around! A spayed cat is a safe cat.
Do not allow your cat to be bored frequently. Although you may believe that cats just lie around, this isn’t the case. They need their exercise. Too many cat owners forget this simple fact. Bored cats tend to develop emotional and mental disorders that may negatively impact their health. Give them plenty of space to roam and provide them with toys to give them some exercise. If they stay indoors make sure they have a scratching post for climbing.
The correct location is important when picking a spot for a cat’s litter box. Don’t put it where the cat can’t reach it or near their food. You should also make sure there is ample ventilation to avoid odors. Your cat will be more comfortable and you will too.
You may be able to find a better deal on your cat’s prescription online instead of purchasing them from your veterinarian. In an emergency, this won’t be much help, of course. However, for standard medications, like flea medications or heart worm pills, online sources offer a substantial savings to pet owners.
If you give your kids a kitten, provide them with firm boundaries at the same time. Make sure your children know what rooms the cat can go into and what rooms it can’t. Make sure the kids know if your cat is indoors only. You need to establish some clear rules for your pet and ask everyone to follow them.
If your thinking about allowing your cat to go outside, you may want to reconsider. It can be unsafe. Your cat can pick up fleas, or worse. Other animals and vehicles could also injure your cat. If they have to go outside, make sure it’s a small area like your lawn or backyard.
Be sure to brush or comb your cat’s fur on a regular basis. This keeps the fur well oiled and the skin healthy. It will also remove loose hair. This will help to eliminate hairballs, which build in your cat’s stomach and prevents it from grooming itself.
As you know already, it can be very rewarding to be a cat owner. Keeping your cat happy and healthy means learning as much as you can about cat care. Read and re-read the advice above to find the information you need to do your best to care for your cat. Kitty will be thankful!