Cats are among the most popular pets in the world. They make excellent companions and require much less work than owning a dog. However, it is important to note there you still have several responsibilities to take care of when you own a cat. The article below will show you what those responsibilities are.
Putting a warm tile beneath the bed of an older cat will help it rest comfortably. Place a tile made of terra cotta or a similar material in an oven heated to 200 degrees for around 15 to 20 minutes. You should wrap it with a towel and place it under the bed your cat uses. Change it every couple of hours if desired.
Whenever you take your cat anywhere, use a cat carrier. No matter how gentle your cat is, it could become frightened. If this happens, it could bolt off and be quickly lost, injured or killed. At the vet’s office, your cat will be safe from unpredictable animals if you use a pet carrier.
Feed your cat a proper diet. Cats are carnivores and have specific dietary needs. Feed them quality cat food that has been approved by AAFCO or the Association of American Feed Control Officials. If you wish to make your cat’s food yourself, make sure you speak with a vet about necessary supplements or specific recipes that your cat needs to eat.
Cats’ curiosity often puts them in risky situations. Something as simple as a necklace, window pull, or phone cords can cause your pet to become injured or even killed. These items should be bound securely so that they are not a source of temptation for your inquisitive pet. Many childproofing aids work just as well for your kitten.
A kitty door is a great way to allow your cat to go in and out, without any help from you. You can also use kitty doors on doors inside your home. This can be great if you have a dog or small children, to keep them out of the room with the litter box.
If you will be out of town or gone for more than a few hours, make sure to hire a pet sitter to take care of your cat. Most people think of pet sitters as necessary for only dogs, but they are important for cats too. You need someone to check in on your cat, make sure he eats and give him some love while you are away.
You have to take your cat into the vet for certain things, but the vet bills can really add up. A money-saving tip is to order medications through online sources. Some companies deliver right to your door. This can be great for monthly medications and flea treatments.
If you are looking for a new home for your kitty, consider registering with an online pet adoption agency. Some of these companies screen applicants, so you will be sure that your pet is going into a good home. This is better than selling him to a creep who lurks around Craigslist all the time.
Although the holidays may seem like the perfect time to give your child a cat as a present, it is much too hectic a time to give a new cat the attention he deserves. The better way would be to involve your child in picking out their new cat at a pet store or your local shelter.
Make sure to stay up to date on the required vaccinations for your kitty. Vaccinations can prevent serious illnesses, and they are very important to your cat’s overall health. Take the time to visit your veterinarian annually to make sure your pet is always up to date and remaining healthy.
When you are having social gatherings at your home, do not confine your cat to an area alone. This is your cat’s home, and they should always feel welcome here. Being around others will only strengthen their social skills, which is great if you plan on having a child or a new cat come into the home.
If you have outdoor plants and an outdoor cat, using chicken wire around your plants is a great way to keep them out of reach of your feline friend. Remember that some plants are fatal if a cat eats them, and you always want to make sure to protect the safety of your feline friend.
As cats get older, their nutritional requirements change. They need more vitamin E, antioxidants and beta carotene. Talk to your vet about different kinds of foods that you can introduce to your cat to ensure they get the nutrition they need. They will recommend foods that will ensure that your cat stays at a healthy weight while ensuring they meet their nutritional needs.
As was mentioned in the beginning of this article, owning a cat can be a wonderful experience. However, it is going to require some work on your part. Be sure and use the information provided in this article so that you are taking proper care of your cat. Doing so will ensure that your cat lives a long and happy life.
