Cats spend a lot of time napping, but when they are awake, you will need to keep them busy to keep them out of trouble. If left alone, cats can scratch up all your furniture. You can use many things to prevent this like cat toys. The following article lists information about some great cat toys.
Make sure you keep all the recommended appointments with your cat’s veterinarian. There are shots and vaccinations that are standard and necessary for your cat. If you can, stick with one vet for your cat’s entire life. This one vet will be aware of the cat’s history.
Your cat can devastate your furniture with its claws. A kitty tower can really save your furniture. You should scold your cat when it scratches your furniture and direct its attention to the scratching post or tower. Sooner or later, they’ll love to use it.
Cover the area around your cat’s bowl with a cloth. Cats like to make a mess when they eat. This can result in you having to clean up food outside its bowl if you don’t use a tablecloth. A simpler way to do this is by getting a place-mat and placing it under their bowl. You can also cut some fabric to make a tablecloth that can be lifted, washed, or shaken over a trash can.
Just because your family did it when you were a child, does not mean allowing your cat to go outside is a wise decision. This could be harmful and unsafe. Fleas can infest your cat, or something worse can happen. It could be injured via a vehicle or another animal. If they have to go outside, make sure it’s a small area like your lawn or backyard.
Litter Box
Don’t teach the basics of using a litter box. Using the litter box is instinctual for cats, and they require no training. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.
You should not get rid of your cat’s old scratching post. It’s in this condition that cats tend to love it the most. There is a good chance if you got rid of it and bought a new one that your cat would start scratching up your furniture.
Consider getting your cat a fountain to drink from. In the wild, cats prefer running water to drink from, and they do in the home as well. Cats prefer to drink water that is streaming. Many cats prefer running water over their water dish. A fountain will allow a cat to drink naturally and is better for the environment.
Use canned food for your cat. Food that is dry is cheaper but canned food is better for your cat’s health. They have more water, protein and fat too. Canned food is much easier to chew for older cats. Speak with the vet, but food in cans tends to be better.
You should think carefully before getting a long-haired cat. Even though that nice coat of beautiful silky fur looks great, it can leave a mess on your floors, furniture and clothing. Don’t adopt a cat with long fur unless you’re sure you can handle the extra cleaning. They can also have more health issues due to hairballs.
You should worry if your cat is no longer using its litter box. A common sign that a cat has a medical condition is failure to use the bathroom in the litter box. Some common issues are bladder and kidney problems. Consult with your veterinarian when your cat refuses to use its litter box.
Outdoor Cats
Your cat will thrive if allowed to say indoors. Indoor cats live longer and have less illness and pests than outdoor cats. Outdoor cats can be attacked by other animals and exposed to many harmful influences. Play with your cat daily to give it adequate exercise.
If you decide to declaw your cat, never allow it to go outside. It can’t defend itself with no claws. Only declaw your cat if you are serious about keeping them indoors. If you do decide to declaw your indoor cat, do not remove the back claws. Leaving the back claws are important so that your cat can scratch themselves.
Cats can sometimes have a lot of energy, and the best way to channel that energy is through toys. Give them whatever they need. You’ll find that caring for your cat properly involves a lot less guesswork when you take the time to absorb useful advice like the tips presented above.