House Cat Care Tips For A Healthier Cat

Creating a new home for your new feline friend will require some basic understanding of house cat care. House cats require the proper food to help them live a healthier and happier life. Routine feeding times will help your cat remain happy and healthy. A routine of the right food and consistent feeding times will alleviate bad eating habits later.

When feeding your cat stay away from cow's milk. Cow's milk can cause diarrhea. Cats require fresh water that is the only liquid they need. The digestive system of a cat is affected as they age, so feeding them small meals that are easily digested are recommended. This commonly occurs around 7 years old, and your cat will require food that has easily digested proteins. Most moist pellets, tinned foods, and some dry food will meet your cat's dietary needs. Feeding your cat dry or tinned food is entirely up to you. If your cat has issues with their teeth, the moist food may be the best option.

Long haired cats usually do not groom all of their hair which results in nasty hair mats that are dirty and painful. Cats use their tongue and teeth to groom their coats. The problem is that when cats groom themselves they swallow hair. The unfortunate part of this is hair will not digest. The hair creates clumps in the stomach and intestines creating hairballs. These hairballs can cause a blockage in cat's intestinal tract. Grooming your cat with a brush or comb can help reduce the hair the cat swallows.

House cat care also requires the use of a litter box for your cat. This litter box should be scooped several times a day and needs to be placed away from the well traveled parts of the house. Cats are easy to litter box train, all you need to do is place them in the litter box and show them where to scratch at the loose gravel.

Using good observational skills can help alleviate a small problem from turning into a bigger problem. Behavioral changes in your cat may be a sign of a problem. If you notice these changes you might want to consult a veterinarian. Regular vet visits for checkups and vaccinations are also a requirement for general good health of your cat. By following these general rules of house cat care, your cat will enjoy a very long and happy life.