Mr. Eliot, a famous poet, He said that cats were designed in a way that a home depends on them, and that is a true statement in a way. If you have a cat that is healthy and behaves well, your whole household will benefit. There are, however, many reports of cats being difficult and temperamental. Below, you’ll find suggestions that will help you and your cat live together in peace.
If your cat suddenly goes off its feed for no apparent reason, try tempting treats such as jack mackerel, tuna, or cream of chicken soup in small amounts. These are not complete foods and shouldn’t be fed long term, but they are extremely tasty to cats. A finicky cat may start eating again and keep on when given one of these treats.
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. This will keep your cats safe from attack and illness.
Play with your cat using proper cat toys. Cats love toys that help them feel like the predators that they think they are. Try sticking with toys that help them dance around or jump. This can also help them use extra energy by pouncing on toys instead of people’s feet.
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.
A microchip for your cat is something that you should really consider. Even indoor cats may get out of your home at some point. Tags and collars may be able to help you get your cat back, but cats can sometimes take these things off or they could get hung up on a tree or something. Microchips are very small, approximately as large as a single grain of rice. Although they are small, they can hold your entire contact information. The chip will never be lost because it is under the skin and it can easily be read by any shelter or vet.
Consider those expensive cat litter boxes. There are cat litter boxes now that allow you to have minimal interaction with them. This can be great for anyone who is tired of cleaning a litter box. But be careful, as they may not work as easily as they claim to. If you can, make sure there is a return policy and don’t lose the receipt. You may find you prefer the old-fashioned style!
If you want to have your cat for many years, it is a good idea to keep them indoors. While a cat may enjoy going outside, it is statistically proven that outdoor cats live shorter lives than indoor cats. There are dangers to a cat that spends time outside, not least of all other animals.
Is your cat constantly destroying your toilet paper? Make sure that your bath tissue is stopping it from rolling over the top. You can also make or buy a toilet paper cover. These covers are not expensive and will save you money if your furry friend insists on playing with your tissue.
If you going to be gone for more than a day, you should have someone look in on your cat. Leave out plenty of food, but have someone come to make sure it doesn’t run out. If you do not have a neighbor or family to look in on your cat, you can usually find a cat sitter for a few dollars each day.
When you buy a small kitty for your children, set the boundaries ahead of time. Make sure your children know what rooms the cat can go into and what rooms it can’t. Advise your children not to let the cat out if it is to be an indoor cat. If you make the rules ahead of time, you can be sure your kids understand them.
Give serious thought to spaying or neutering your cat. Your vet can give you the pros and cons of both, but if you plan to keep your cat for a long period of time you should consider this operation. Cat overpopulation is a real problem, and you can do your part.
You shouldn’t leave a young cat with children unattended. Never leave a pet alone with a child who is any younger than five. The maturity level isn’t there when it comes to your child. Once the child grows up a little, he might be more able to handle the kitten.
Avoid spending too much time trying to train your cat to utilize its litter box. This is natural to them and does not need to be taught. Contrary to what most people believe, it’s actually incorrect to rub a cat’s paw in the litter.
If you notice that your cat is not using the litter box as much as usual, you should go and take them to a vet right away. There are several health problems that can cause the cat to stop using the box. These issues include bladder problems, constipation and diarrhea.
Do you see cat hair everywhere you look? Cats are shedding machines, which means you need to brush them to keep the shedding under control. The more hair you see on the ground, the more you should pull out the brush. Brushing can help prevent their fur from matting or tangling.
Cat ownership can be challenging at times, but it is always rewarding. Whether a cat jumps all over the house or sleeps all day, these tips can better your bond with them. Those meows will be replaced with purrs in short order.