Cats are truly fascinating animals. Fiercely independent, strong-willed and intelligent, they are also very loving and affectionate. To ensure that your cat is properly cared for, take some time to study the best cat care advice and tips. Continue reading this article to learn everything you need to know to properly care for your kitty cat.
Create a warm bed for an outdoor or feral cat by lining a banana box with a thick layer of newspaper. Cut a piece of Mylar to fit the bottom of the box. Put another layer of newspaper on top. Add a warm blanket. Place the whole box inside a dog house or under a porch where it can’t get wet.
Get a pet water fountain. Cats can be prone to dehydration, and running water entices them to drink. It is an evolutionary habit that developed because in the wild, running water is less likely to be contaminated than a stagnant pool. Your pet will enjoy the water more, and will drink more often.
For a healthier, happier cat choose plain litter over scented litter. Cats like nice, clean, clumping cat litter. Scoop your cats litter box daily and change it completely every three days or so. When you change the box, wash it out with water and dish soap. Don’t waste your money on liners as cats tend to destroy them.
An indoor cat who gets a taste of the outdoors will forever want to go outside. If you know your cat will always be an indoor cat, do your best to keep them from sneaking out. You can try to train your cat to stay in your yard when you are outside.
If your cat is pregnant, set up a comfortable, safe place for her to have her kittens. A big cardboard box equipped with a pillow and blanket is good. Place it in the back of a closet or other out of the way place. Keep food and water dishes nearby.
Cats like to chase birds and catch them. This helps cats to build and deliver crucial hunting skills. But what if you have an indoor cat? You can find cat toys at the pet store that will help you simulate a bird flying around. Your cat will love it, and love you for it.
Play with your cat. A lot of cat owners don’t do this. They are happy to let their cat entertain themselves. However, playing with your cat can help to mentally stimulate him and give him the physical activity he needs. Use small balls, paper bags and any number of small toys to get your cat moving.
The chances are good that your cat will come running for their favorite treat. There are many different recipes out there specifically for homemade cat treats. This is a fun way to spoil your cat. There is also the benefit of knowing what exactly your cat is consuming, to ensure that it is healthy for them.
Carriers are great devices for you to have as a cat owner. You cannot train a cat the same way you train a dog because they react differently to punishment. They like responding to encouragement better. Inside the carrier, put a favorite toy and blanket. Leave it open in an area the cat will see. Over time the cat will not be stressed about the carrier and will enter it voluntarily. It will then be easier to transport the cat in the carrier.
Don’t toss an older scratching post just because it looks worn. Cats typically like older posts compared to newer posts. By removing the old item and replacing it with a new one, your cat may try to find another item to scratch. This could end up being furniture.
Provide safe and engaging entertainment for your cat at all times. Even if you cannot be in the house with your pet, you should ensure that it has access to toys and other diversions. Sometimes we perceive that cats are lazy animals, but that doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy playing to pass the time. This is especially important if your cat is alone in your house for long periods of time.
Help keep your cat’s fur soft and healthy with regular cleaning. While your pet might object violently to a dunk in the bathtub, there are other options. Many pet stores sell feline cleaning wipes. These convenient disposable wipes reduce allergens and remove oils and dirt. Some are scented with chamomile, which helps to calm your cat. These are especially useful if you have an older or injured pet that cannot groom itself properly.
There is a lot of responsibility involved with a long-haired cat. Cats are beautiful with hair that is long and silky. Your clothes, floors and furniture aren’t. Realize the extra effort needed to keep a long-haired cat. Hair balls are also more prevalent in long haired cats.
While cats can be finicky, you should not encourage this behavior. A cat will eat the exact same cat food their whole life if it is tasty and nutritious. You do not need to mix up the flavors. Doing this can encourage the cat to skip certain foods they previously ate and wait for another.
As was mentioned in the beginning of this article, cats are absolutely fascinating animals. Properly caring for cats, however, is not as easy as many people think. It takes some real effort. Apply all of the great cat care tips and advice outlined in this article to keep your kitty healthy and happy.
