If you were given the opportunity to rescue an animal, would you take it? Millions of cats are out there and need a home. The first step is adopting, and the second is learning to care for it.
To help prevent tapeworm infestation in cats, feed a small amount of food grade diatomaceous earth for two weeks out of each month. About a quarter of a teaspoon per cat per day is adequate. Food grade diatomaceous earth kills internal parasites and causes them to be expelled from the system.
Keep your cat occupied by making your own dangly toys. Using soft cotton rope, cut a length of about two feet. Tie a knot at one end. Tie another knot about three inches from the opposite end. Unravel the rope below this knot. Attach the rope to the back of a kitchen chair for your cat to play.
Make sure you purchase medicines and treatments specifically for cats. Cats will react very negatively to any products intended for dogs. Flea products can be especially harmful. These dog flea products can even cause feline death. If you own a dog, and they’ve been given a flea treatment, you should separate them from your cat for a few hours.
Keep your cat’s coat healthy by giving them a supplement of nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast is an inexpensive supplement that can be found in most health food stores. Simply sprinkle a little bit on your cat’s dry food, or mix it in with their wet food. Not only do they love how it tastes, but it’s full of protein and vitamins that will keep them looking their best!
Make sure you have a good pet carrier or basket for transporting your cats from one location to the next. A proper carrier or basket should have enough room for them to turn around in comfortably. It should also be easy to clean. Make sure that it is lined with a blanket, cushion, or towel to help it stay comfortable and cozy for them when traveling.
Make your own enclosed litter box from a large tote box with a lid. Use a coffee can lid as a pattern to cut a door in one side of the tote. Place the coffee can lid fairly high up on the side of the tote. Trace around it with a permanent marker. Cut out the circle with tin snips or a box cutter. Add litter. Put on the lid.
You will often find ways to save money on medication for your cat on the Internet instead of getting it from your vet. Naturally, some stuff won’t be available online. If you regularly need to buy pet medication, you can get a savings of up to 50 percent online.
Look for potential problems when getting a new cat. Their eyes should be clear, nose clear as well, and the ears without any kind of discharge. The cat should have a shiny coat and the mouth and gums should be free of sores. Taking on an unhealthy cat can be expensive.
Is your cat really sweet and lovable? If so, they might make a good therapy pet. Pet therapy uses animals to go into places like nursing homes, and bring some joy to the people there. Your cat will be happy with all the attention, and you can feel good about doing something positive for others.
One of the most delightful things about a dog is the way they happily greet their owners. A cat wagging its tail can have a very different meaning. If you see a cat’s tail moving like that, it is an indication that they are agitated or don’t know what to do. Likewise, if you are holding your cat, and he suddenly starts to wag his tail, you may need to let him down to avoid swats or scratches to yourself!
Refrain from cleaning or using chemicals in the vicinity of your cat. Lysol, Pine-Sol and many other products contain this chemical. It causes liver problems in felines.
Do you offer your cats inexpensive food, thinking that it will last longer, and you get more for your money? The truth is, cheaper foods usually lack the proper nutrients and protein cats need in order to stay healthy. Instead, they contain fillers, such as corn, to bulk up the food. Cats need to eat more of cheaper foods, but will require less of a protein-rich food that will keep him healthier in the long run.
Make sure to feed your diet pet food specifically made for cats. While a bag of dog food might be cheaper pound for pound, it will not contain the necessary vitamins, minerals and especially protein content to keep your cats healthy. Giving a cat dog food on a regular basis can also cause kidney failure and other serious illnesses.
Your cat may be mad when you first bring home another pet. It is best to keep the other animal away from your cat at first. Let the cat grow accustomed to the new scents. When time passes, let them spend time together slowly.
Although cats do not usually need to be bathed, if your cat does need a bath, set a small towel on the side of your sink or tub to give your cat something to make him feel secure. Not being able to get a foothold on slippery surfaces can panic your cat and make the bath more difficult.
Obviously, cats like water. But, did you know that running water is particularly interesting to them? Cats are generally dehydrated most of the time, so a fountain is more likely to get them to drink enough water to stay healthy. As they age, your cat will be healthier and happier as a result.
Being a good cat owner is something to take pride in. Through opening your home and heart, you help an animal that needs you. You will develop a bond with your cat that lasts for many years. Having a cat can actually help you to live a happier and longer life.
