Many people have cats as pets, but often the cats won’t behave how their owners want. The cats may jump all over the furniture and steal food from other family members. If this sounds like your cat, then something needs to be done. Check out this article for some tips related to cat behavior.
If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! Having your cat spayed helps to control the pet population and will save you time and trouble.
Keep the litter box clean. Cats are naturally very clean animals, and a dirty litter box will have your cat looking for alternative places to relieve himself. Cats also value their privacy, so try to locate the box in an area that does not get a lot of foot traffic.
Your cat can take lots of time to groom themselves to what they consider “perfect.” Long hair encourages hairballs. If you’ve got a cat with this issue, get it special types of food. Certain kinds of cat food are made to decrease hairballs. As a result, you and your cat will be happier.
Try to figure out the cause if you find your cat meowing excessively. Over time, you will pick up on the reasons why your cat is making this gesture. Possibilities include that she is hungry or wants to be let outside. By giving her the proper amount of attention you can better attend to her needs.
Reconsider outside time for your cat. This can compromise your cat’s safety. There is a chance your cat can contract fleas or perhaps something much worse. There is the possibility they may get injured by another animal, even people and cars too. If you still insist your cat be able to go outside, then do so in the fenced backyard.
Get your cat a breakaway collar. Make sure it has tags that reflect a phone number, even if you are uncomfortable with an address. Cats can run outdoors or slip away, and you don’t want to worry that you’ll never see your cat again. Make sure that there is adequate information so you can be reached.
Play with your cat. A lot of cat owners don’t do this. They are happy to let their cat entertain themselves. However, playing with your cat can help to mentally stimulate him and give him the physical activity he needs. Use small balls, paper bags and any number of small toys to get your cat moving.
Most cats love to lounge right on your lap. As cozy as this can be, it is not always convenient. If your cat has a favorite spot, such as on your lap at the computer it can be hard to get things done. Getting a pet bed for your cat and perching it right next to your chair can help satisfy your cats need to be near you.
Get your cat used to a carrier. You cannot train a cat the same way you train a dog because they react differently to punishment. They like responding to encouragement better. Place the open carrier in an area that your cat visits often and outfit it with a favorite toy and blanket. Soon that cat will walk into the carrier on its own. Once the cat is comfortable with the carrier, you can transport it easily.
Just as important as it is to take care of your own teeth, you need to take care of your cats as well. Cats can develop tarter and plaque build-up over time. Purchasing a toothbrush and toothpaste made specially for felines is a great way to keep your cats teeth clean and healthy.
Understand your cat’s sounds. Meowing is a form of communication, often for food or to get your attention. There are other sounds, though. Hissing usually indicates fear or anger, so you should stay away. Cats also make certain sounds when they see prey. This often sounds like a chirp. Purring may indicate contentment, but sometimes it means nervousness.
Help keep your cat’s fur soft and healthy with regular cleaning. While your pet might object violently to a dunk in the bathtub, there are other options. Many pet stores sell feline cleaning wipes. These convenient disposable wipes reduce allergens and remove oils and dirt. Some are scented with chamomile, which helps to calm your cat. These are especially useful if you have an older or injured pet that cannot groom itself properly.
Cats are nice, but they aren’t perfect. Sometimes cats will do things that will seem abnormal and downright rude to us. You don’t have to get rid of the cat, just help it learn how to behave. This article can act as a guide for you while you help your cat behave better.