When you want to get a pet that's great, a cat is a good idea. Those who have never owned a cat before would be wise to read the following article. Keep reading to deepen your knowledge about cats.
Don't let your cats play with drape cords. Cats can potentially strangle themselves on these cords so it is important to protect your cat from this potential danger. This could lead to a severe injury or even death. Make sure that the cords are completely out of sight.
Visit your local shelter if you're thinking about getting a cat. Shelters are overflowing with wonderful cats, and the adoption fee usually covers essential vet care. When you bring home a shelter cat, you will be saving its life and you will be doing your part to help out.
If your cat is a female, it needs to be spayed when it reaches the appropriate age. Even if she is an inside cat, you need to spay her because she could get out. Your best bet is to have your female cat spayed.
Do not allow your cat to be bored frequently. It is necessary for them to play and get exercise. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. Bored cats can really be a problem. They can have health issues, OCD, and even depression. Give them toys and things to do. If they are indoors, give them a scratching post or something to climb on.
Normally cats are nocturnal animals. Do not be surprised if your cat is very active at night. If your cats keep you up at night, kick them out of the bedroom. This way, they can't disturb you while you sleep.
While usually cats make great pets for kids, younger kids may be too rough with them. Teach your children how to handle a cat. Spend some time showing them how to lift a cat and how they can interact with the cat. A cat's bones are not as strong as a dogs, and they should be treated more gently.
Make a tablecloth that your cat can use. Often cats prefer moving food from a bowl onto the floor to eat. This makes quite a mess. Simply place a cloth placemat that will grab at the food under their plate and then shaken out over the trash. You can put a vinyl one underneath that can be picked up wiped down easily if you prefer.
If you get a small kitten for your children, make sure they understand the rules ahead of time. Let them know which rooms and areas your cats should not be in. If you want to have an indoor cat, explain to your children that they cannot let it go outside. Setting rules in advances ensures understanding.
If your cat relieves itself away from its litter box, do not spring into action with punishment. They're doing it because the box is too dirty, or they may be sick. If you punish the cat, it may shy away from you at future times.
Make sure your cat stays inside as much as it can, near to both its home and its owner. Studies have shown that cats that live outdoors tend to have shorter lives than cats that stay indoors. Outdoor cats can be attacked by other animals and exposed to many harmful influences. Play with your cat daily to give it adequate exercise.
Avoid leaving a declawed feline outside unattended. Your cat may be seriously injured or killed because they are not prepared to defend themselves against another animal who may attack them. Indoor cats are the only ones that you should declaw. It is still best to just remove the front claws. The back claws are left because these won't scratch your furniture or floors.
If you are lucky enough to have a cat that has a lot of hairballs, and brushing doesn't seem to be helping to lessen them, then the following tips might help. You can try adding a teaspoon or so of pumpkin to your cat's food. You can also mix one teaspoon of tuna water in with the pumpkin. In addition, certain cat foods contain ingredients that are made to prevent hairballs, such as fiber. This may help resolve the issue.
Cats can really make wonderful pets. This can reduce stress and be comforting. In order to make your cat's life (and your time as a cat owner) happy and healthy, you have to be prepared to be a responsible owner. Be sure to use the advice above so that you and your cat can coexist for years and years.