Cats are a very common house pet but there is also a wide population of wild cats. These cats are overpopulated and can be a nuisance. You can learn how to deal with these cats before they cost you money.
Be sure to have your pet cat spayed or neutered by the time it is six months old. A spayed or neutered cat is a more satisfactory pet because it is calmer, quieter and more likely to stay home. Neutered male cats do not spray urine to mark their territory. This is definitely a plus when it comes to cat ownership.
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.
Be careful when treating your cat for fleas. Be sure to consult with your vet before using natural alternatives to control your cat’s fleas. Cats are very sensitive to essential oils and many herbs. Your vet will probably recommend you use a prescription flea treatment, which is usually best for cats.
Never have your cat declawed. Many people misunderstand declawing, thinking it is the simple removal of a cat’s nail. This is not true. In fact, the veterinarian must remove the top knuckle along with the claw during the procedure. This can result in arthritis pain later in life and many behavior problems, such as biting. There are many alternatives from scratching posts to glue-on claw caps that can protect your belongings from a cat’s claws without resorting to such a harsh surgical solution.
Use petting to check on your cat’s health. Petting isn’t just a way for you and your cat to spend time together, but it’s a great way to find anything abnormal on their body. You can pet them to feel for bumps, lumps, or sores. This is also a great time for you to check their ears.
If your cat has a tendency to eat your plants, you can stop him. You can either purchase bitter apple spray and spray the pot, or you can put a bit of clove oil on a cotton ball and bury it a bit in the soil. Your cat will avoid both.
Keep smaller children away from pets as they are typically too aggressive. Teach your kids how to treat a cat. Teach them which activities are good and how to properly pick your cat up. A cat’s bones are not as strong as a dogs, and they should be treated more gently.
Cats do not need to be taught how they should use the cat litter box. This is natural to them and does not need to be taught. A lot of people think that rubbing a cat’s paws in its litter box may help them, but in reality, it can be damaging to them.
You should brush your cat very regularly. This will help spread the natural oils within their fur while stimulating their skin’s blood flow. Also, it helps manage loose hair. This helps prevent hairballs, which can lead to choking and other health issues.
When you bring home a new cat for the first time, the experience can be overwhelming for both of you. Instead of granting access to your entire home, introduce your pet to its new environment one room at a time. For example, you might place your cat’s carrier in your study or den. As long as the carrier door is open, you should be in the room with the animal.
If you live in an area that is populated by wild animals, such as coyote and fox, you may need to make you cat an indoor cat. Wild animals pose a real threat to cats, and to avoid the loss of a beloved pet, it is sometimes best to keep them indoors for the course of their lives.
Scoop your cat box several times a day. Cats prefer a very clean environment when they use the restroom, and they will often choose not to use the litter box if it is not clean. Try to scoop it every time they use it for best results, especially if your cats are picky.
If your cat seems excessively thirsty, take him to the veterinarian to get him checked out. Excessive thirst is a common symptom of diabetes in cats, and this often missed diagnosis can cause serious complications if left untreated. Always keep a close eye on your furry friend’s water intake, and if you are concerned get him to the doctor to have a look.
Trips to the vet are necessary, however those bills can pile up quick. If you are looking to save money, buy your medications from reputable sites on the web. There are several companies that are able to deliver your cat’s medication right to your front door. This can be great for monthly medications and flea treatments.
The way to take good care of your cat is to groom them often. Use a brush to remove any excess hair. Cats usually enjoy being brushed and will come running to you when they see the brush in your hand. Keep their nails trimmed so they do not grow back and injure their paws.
Now you know something about cat care. Cats are prone to a number of issues, but with the right knowledge, you’ll be able to handle all of them. Keep in mind that all cats are very sensitive and require a lot of care. You might even take to one of the feral cats.
