Cats are one of many animals that clean themselves. Although this works for the cat in many instances, there is only so much that cat can do. You have to step in and groom the cat to keep it healthy. Here are some useful grooming techniques to use on your cat.
Before acquiring a cat, be sure that you have the wherewithal to take care of all necessary vet care. Cats reproduce at an alarming rate, and spaying or neutering is essential to keeping cat population under control. Check spay, neuter and vaccination costs and packages with local vets and clinics and be sure you can afford to give your cat proper medical care.
Although depicted in countless movies and cartoons, milk is not the best source of nutrition for your cat. Once cats have grown, they do not need milk as a regular part of their diet. Milk can cause stomach distress and bloating. Instead of giving your cat milk, always have fresh, clean water available to them instead.
Your cat might not come running when you call, but most cats enjoy cuddling on their terms and time. Cats love to have their heads and backs pet. Not all cats like their tummies rubbed so be careful. Spending quality time with your cat will make lasting memories to look back on someday.
If you replace an old scratching post, your cat may be unhappy with the new one. Save money on scratching posts. Wrap your old scratching post with some sisal rope to spiff it up. Your cat will be happy not to lose its favorite old post. You will save a little cash.
Spray electrical cords with some bitter apple to prevent cats from getting electrocuted. If they like to chew on cords, try covering them as much as you can. Loose cords can be bundled and tucked inside old paper towel rolls. If you have electrical cords laying out that are not being used, put them away as cats can play with them and then move on to live electrical cords.
Wash your cat’s bed at least once a week to remove all of the bacteria from it. Even if the bed looks like it is clean, it will usually have toxins in it that can cause your pet to become sick. Replace the bed every six months to keep your cat in a sanitary environment.
Some male cats get urinary crystals, but this is preventable with proper diet. It is painful for your cat to pass these crystals and the cost to have this treated by a vet is high. Keep your cat’s diet low in levels of magnesium. Be sure to read the ingredient label. Fish products are usually higher in magnesium.
Do not use medicine meant for a dog on a cat. This is especially important for topical medicines. Cats do their own cleaning, and if a dog medicine is used on a cat, your pet can ingest it. There are some medicines that work for both cats and dogs, but only use them if the vet says it is okay.
Consider adopting multiple cats, especially it will be spending a significant amount of time alone. One cat can do fine alone, however two are not much more work or expense than one, and can keep each other company and entertain each other. This will stave off boredom, especially if you work long hours.
Think over whether or not you should let your cat go outdoors. There are many dangers to your cat outside. They may acquire fleas or much worse things. There is the possibility they may get injured by another animal, even people and cars too. If letting your cat outdoors is important to you, let them out in a safe fenced area.
Buy your cat a fountain to drink from. Cats that live in the wild like drinking from running water, and they have the same desires in a home. Cats generally respond better to a stream of water. Actually, certain cats like to drink right from the sink faucet as it runs. A fountain keeps the water moving without letting any go to waste.
Feed a kitten proper food. A developing kitten survives exclusively on their mother’s milk for the first four weeks, a commercial formula if the mother isn’t around. When moving to regular food, feed them specially formulated kitten food until they reach maturity at the age of one. Kittens need plenty of protein while they are developing.
If you suspect your cat has sprayed in your home but can not find the area, there is hope. Purchasing an inexpensive black light can save you from having to rip up your carpets. Your cats urine will glow under the black light, showing you exactly where to clean.
Many people do not realize that it is perfectly normal for you to take cats on walks so they can get exercise and fresh air. There are special harnesses made for you to use with your cat. If you use the type that were made for dogs, there is a chance your cat can get away.
You should keep wet cat food in the refrigerator after it has been opened. Bring it to room temperature before serving it to your cat, because it will smell more enticing to them and be less likely to cause an upset stomach. If you like, place it in the microwave for a bit to warm it up.
A cat that is clean and well groomed will be happy, healthy, and good looking. Remember, the cat can’t do all of the grooming work. It’s up to you to give it a little extra help. Use as many of the provided grooming techniques on your cat and see how good it looks.
