Cat Care Tips - 10 Things Your Cat Wants You To Know
March 20, 2008 – 11:11 pmHave you ever wondered how it is that beings that are so different, such as felines and humans, can develop such a strong bond? Following these cat care tips will help you and your kitty form an even stronger bond and better enjoy each other’s company. These tips cover subjects such as preventing litter box problems and bringing out your kitty’s hunting instincts.
1. Lay your hands on your cat often - some cats just don’t like to be picked up no matter what. But, if you can start handling your cat often when she’s a kitten, chances are good she’ll better accept it later in life. She’ll also do better when it comes time to get checked by the vet or have her claws trimmed.
2. Give your kitty an exam - weekly (or more often) grooming sessions can be used to examine your cat for health issues. Check your cat for ear mites, fleas, and signs of injury, swelling, or pain, swelling, or injury. Examine your cat’s gums and teeth, eyes, ears, skin, and extremities for obvious problems.
3. Provide a window seat - domestic cats love warmth so much that they’ve been known to singe their fur on hot stoves. Cats love to sunbathe, so set up a nice comfortable bed for your cat by a window so she can have her place in the sun.
4. Keep your cat indoors - every major cat care organization recommends keeping your cat indoors for safety, better health, and a longer life. Cats can live out a healthy life indoors, get the exercise they need, and survey their territory from a nice spot in front of the window.
5. Let your cat hunt - no, don’t let your cat hunt mice outdoors. Instead, spread some treats around the house and bring out the hunting instincts in your cat. This will make feeding time a bit more fun. Also, your cat will probably enjoy it if you toss dry food bits and let her chase them down.
6. Provide enough litter boxes - follow the one plus one rule - one box for each cat in the house plus one more. This ensures that there’s a fresh, available box to use at any given time. Some cats don’t like using a box that was recently used, even if they were the one to use it.
7. Clean the box morning and night - clean the litter box twice a day and change out the litter completely every few weeks. When you do, thoroughly clean the box and disinfect it with bleach. Keep the box sparkling clean, and this will help prevent any possible cat litter box problems that might arise.
8. Set aside playtime for you and your cat - play fetch with your cat, or dangle toys on a string for her. Play a game of tag and take turns chasing each other around the house whenever you can. Increase your cat’s exercise level daily and you’ll help lower risks of heart disease, diabetes and other diseases.
9. Must have cat toys - cat toys can be fun for both of you. Rotate your cat’s toys in and out of circulation so that you keep it interesting. Always, however, leave your cat’s favorites accessible. Heed warning labels, though, and do not leave your cat unsupervised as injury can occur. Also, a belt or a shoe lace, if used safely, can make a great interactive toy and provide exercise for your cat.
10. Get your cat a housemate - two cats are more than twice the fun of one. Plus, your cats will be able to give each other attention when you can’t. A second cat around the house will offer comfort, reduce boredom, and encourage exercise. This will help prevent possible behavior problems as well, as bored kitties are more likely to get into trouble.
Keeping your cat indoors will help keep her safe, and ensuring she exercises will keep her healthy. Nurturing your cat’s instincts, and paying more attention to her will make your kitty a better adjusted family member. The cat care tips concerning the litter box may prevent future headaches, and the health check is just a good habit for the two of you.
Tags: Cat
Related Posts
Print This Article :
