Cats are very curious. Though they seem independent, they also appear to be thoroughly needy sometimes. It really can be confusing, but owning a loving cat is truly incredible. Read on to find out what makes them tick.
It is not safe to use dog products for your feline friend. Cats usually react negatively to items made especially for dogs. This definitely applies to flea products. Products used for flea prevention in dogs can be very harmful to your cat. If you treat your dog for fleas, make sure you keep the cat away for several hours following the application.
Your cat can devastate your furniture with its claws. A kitty tower can really save your furniture. When your cat scratches inappropriately, redirect him to the scratching post. This approach takes time, but it usually works.
It can be hard to stop your cat from coming on your counters. Cats enjoy going into high places so that they can see what's going on around the house. You can remedy this by creating some place up high that you can can enjoy hanging out in. Your cat will not go on your counters if there's a cat tower close to the kitchen.
Adore your cat! Cats need companionship as much as we do. Your cat needs to socialize and get plenty of attention from everyone in your family. They'll know they are accepted as members of the family if they get plenty of loving attention.
Male felines tend to get crystals in the urine that can be prevented with proper diet. If they have to pass the crystals it can cause the cat a lot of pain and paying a vet to help with this can cost you a lot of money. Choose a low magnesium food. Be sure that you read the label. Fish is often high in magnesium compared to chicken.
Children usually take well to cats, but if you have a small child, you may need to provide some instruction. Spend time instructing your children on cat care. Give them examples of how to be gentle with it and what should and should not be done. Because cats are more delicate than dogs, they need to be handled more carefully.
Do you have dogs and cats? Dogs will always try to eat a cat's food. This is why it's important that the cat's feeding area is in a spot that's too high for a dog to get to. This will prevent the two from fighting over the water when the food dishes are empty.
Cats feel safest in an elevated location. To make your cat really happy, give it a place to safely survey its area. You should install a cat tree or allow your cat to climb on some shelves. Adding a small pillow or blanket to the spot for napping will be very much appreciated too.
Cat Owners
When something seems amiss with your feline friend, speak with other cat owners. Other cat owners may have had experience with what you're going through right now. There are a number of message boards for cat owners on the Internet, or you can go to your vet with problems.
Don't try and teach your kitty how the litter box is supposed to be used. This skill is something your cats pick up on their own, not something that can be taught to them. Don't try to force them into the litter box by rubbing their paws or face in it.
Litter Box
Pay attention if you cat does not use the litter box. If your cat refuses to use its litter box, there may be an underlying health concern. Bladder troubles, kidney ailments, or infections can all cause this sort of behavior. Call the vet if your cat refuses to use the litter box.
You should never medicate a cat with something that was meant for humans. If they have health issues, see a vet and give them what they provide. You can kill a cat by giving them human grade medications.
Cats have a great sense of smell, which helps them easily grasp changes to their environment. This can cause problems when making changes in diet and surroundings. Don't be upset if the cat does not take to these items immediately. As the smell takes on the smell of your home, your cat will warm up to it.
Be aware of any panting. With dogs, this is something that is common. Your cat may pant if it is anxious or overheated, but panting may also indicate a more serious problem. Contacting your veterinarian is a good idea, particularly for cats that have built up a history of respiratory difficulties over time.
If you were unemployed when you got your cat, but are now heading back to work, your pet will probably have issues with loneliness. One tried-and-true way to keep a cat from getting lonely is to pair it up with another cat.
Cats are very interesting creatures and you could spend the rest of your life trying to figure them out. Use what you have learned here to ensure that your cat is healthy and happy in your home. Having cats can be a great thing for anyone, and when you care for them properly, a happy cat is a great friend.