If you own a cat, then you realize that this animal is a part of your family. Since this is the case, you owe it to your feline friend to be a responsible owner and protect it from dangers like infections and parasites. They have needs that are different from dogs, and they should not be treated the same way. Read on for some of the best methods for keeping pests off your cats.
Grooming is an essential part of your cat’s care. A cat requires regularly brushing and combing. Doing it constantly can help you keep their coats clean. Doing this will also help alleviate hairballs and excessive shedding. Regularly grooming keeps cats looking well and keeps your home neater.
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Deter your cat from chewing on inappropriate things by using bitter apple. You can also cover your cords under a rug or tape them to walls. Bundle electrical cords together inside a tube. All thin cords should be put up when you’re not using them.
Have your cat chipped so you can find him if he runs away. One day, your indoor cat might leave through an open door or get outside through an open window. Even if you put a collar or tag on your cat, be careful as they can wiggle out of these very easily and can be dangerous if they get caught on a foreign object like a tree branch. A microchip is tiny, similar in size to a single rice grain and capable of holding plenty of information. All shelters and vets have scanners to ensure your cat gets home safely.
Put the litter box in an ideal location. Never put the box near your cat’s food, and pick a quiet place away from areas that are heavily used. The area should also be well ventilated so that it doesn’t smell too badly. Both you and your cat will be happier.
Your cat probably spends a lot of time grooming himself to perfection. When your cat has long hair, this can cause hairballs. If your cat needs assistance with this problem, consider a special diet. Some cat foods are specially formulated to help reduce hairballs, which is good for both you and your pet.
When you buy a small kitty for your children, set the boundaries ahead of time. Let your children know which rooms their cat can be in. Advise your children not to let the cat out if it is to be an indoor cat. Knowing the rules ahead will help your child understand.
If your thinking about allowing your cat to go outside, you may want to reconsider. It can be unsafe. Cats can become infected with fleas, ticks and ringworm. Cats can be gravely injured or killed by eating poisonous plants, flowers or chemicals, hit by a car or even harmed by neighbors who are irritated with your cat on their property. If your cat must be an outdoor cat, limit it to your own backyard.
Do you have a cat and a dog? A dog may enjoy eating your cat’s food when he has the chance to do so. This makes it a good idea to have a cat feeding place high up enough that your dog can’t get to it. This can prevent squabbles over water when their food is gone.
Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. This is not something that needs to be taught. In fact, it comes naturally for them. A common misconception is to rub your cats paws into the kitty litter however this isn’t a good idea.
Keep you cat’s old scratching post even if it is beginning to look worn. When a post is worn, your cats may enjoy it more. If you throw it away, you may find your cat scratching on other surfaces.
Ensure your cat is collared and wears an identification tag. Even if it’s an indoor cat, this is important. Cats are naturally curious and a door or window that’s open invites exploration. Your cat’s identification tags should provide your contact info and that of your veterinarian. If your kitty has medical conditions, this information can be a life saver.
If you plan to add a second cat to your household, be sure to allow two to three weeks for your resident cat and the new cat to get used to each other. They might hide from each other or hit each other. Cats usually learn to enjoy having a companion or at least put up with another one in their home.
Is your home covered in your cat’s fur? You have to brush your cat to avoid their shedding. Cats that shed a lot need to be brushed more frequently. This can also prevent their coat from becoming matted or tangled.
Cats, like many other pets, are susceptible to different parasites. Such pests can linger if untreated. You can take measures to get rid of or even prevent parasites. You cat will thank you when you do.
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