Lightning reflexes, soft purring and quick wits. All these things you get as a cat owner. They can be a tricky pet, which means this article is for you. This article is filled with useful tips every cat owner should know about. Now, read on!
Put a collar on any cats which go outside. This way, if your cat gets lost and is found by a stranger, that person will know how to contact you. The tag should contain at least the cat's name and your contact information.
Deter cats from shocking themselves on electrical wires by spraying them with bitter apple. Keep your cords covered if you feel like your cat is hellbent on chewing them. An inexpensive way to hide electrical cords is to thread them through used paper towel rolls. Personal electronic devices should be stored when not needed to keep their cords out of reach.
If your cat is traveling with you, remember their ears. While you may like some good tunes, your cat is going to appreciate other things. To ensure your cat's trip is pleasant, turn off the music or keep the volume low.
There needs to be set boundaries with your children and a new kitty. Let your children know what rooms you will allow the cat to go into. If you want your cat to stay indoors, then the children must understand the seriousness of never letting it out. This will ensure nothing bad happens.
Speak with other cat owners about any issues you may be having. You can often get great advice from friends and family. You can locate forums about cats online if you search for them. On these forums you can ask for advice, or you can just speak with a vet.
A battered appearance isn't a good reason to discard a beloved cat condo or scratching post. Your cat will enjoy the post most when it has been well used. Cats may well try scratching something else entirely (like your furniture!) if you replace their beloved toy with something unfamiliar.
Give high quality canned food to your pet cat. Although dry food is usually less expensive, canned food is better for your cat. They have more water, protein and fat too. Canned food is much easier to chew for older cats. Discuss this with your vet, who may tell you to feed your cat canned food.
Ensure your cat is collared and wears an identification tag. Even if it's an indoor cat, this is important. Cats love to explore, and if they see an opportunity to go outside, they will take it. Tags should include contact information for you and your vet. This is particularly important if you have a cat with medical needs.
Litter Box
If you notice that your cat has stopped using its litter box, you'll want to contact your vet. When cats are suffering from something, they may end up going to the restroom randomly outside of their box. If your cat is not using the litter, kidney or bladder problems and infections may be the problem. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.
Your cat should stay inside most of the time, and when it's outside, you should ensure it remains close to home. Cats who stay inside for most of their lives have a much better life span and are less likely to get diseases and parasites. If you want to give your indoor cat some outdoor time, exercise with them. That way, your cat gets some fresh air, sunshine and outdoor scenery without the risks of free-roamers.
If your cat has frequent hairballs, and extra brushing hasn't helped, here are some other tips that may help. You can try adding a teaspoon or so of pumpkin to your cat's food. Try also mixing in some water from tuna with the pumpkin. There are cat foods that have anti-hairball components in them, like extra fiber, that can help.
This article gives you many different techniques to use with your cat. Use the tips above to help you be a good cat owner. A well-cared for cat is much happier where you can both can enjoy a better relationship. Use these tips to see for yourself.