Cats are very interesting animals and you will love yours right away if you decide to adopt one. It is essential to educate yourself on how to properly care for your cat. The following article will help you learn the answers to the most important questions new cat owners have.
Don't offer table scraps to your cat as a treat. The additives in human food may not agree with your cats' digestive system. Give your cat chicken or beef if you must feed it human food. This is not necessary, though. If you feed them the right food appropriate to their size and age, they need nothing else.
Never medicate your cat if they're not sick. Some flea medications contain all sorts of unnecessary medicine. These are great for street cats, however, they shouldn't be used on any indoor cats.
Put a breakaway collar on a cat with an engraved tag. Even if your cat lives in the house, he could always get out. If that happens, you want to be sure that there is a way for them to make it back home.
Think over whether or not you should let your cat go outdoors. It might not be safe for your cat to go outdoors. Your cat may get fleas or have other problems. They might get injured by some other animals, vehicles, or people. If your cat must be an outdoor cat, limit it to your own backyard.
Grooming is an essential part of your cat's care. A cat requires regularly brushing and combing. Doing this frequently can help them keep their coat clean. This will also reduce things like shedding and hairballs because it keeps them from having extra hair. Regularly grooming your cat will help keep it and your home looking great.
Cats love to play on kitchen counters, and it can be hard to break them of the habit. One thing they like about it is they enjoy being high up. One way to deal with this issue could be to devote certain high spaces for your feline friend to sit in. Sometimes strategically placing a tall cat tower near your kitchen will help.
Does your home feel inundated with balls of cat fur? Cats shed frequently; therefore, you need to brush them on a regular basis. If your cat is a big shedder, you definitely want to brush him often. This will also help their coat from getting tangled or matted.
High areas are ideal for cats. To keep your cat healthy, provide your cat with a high place to sit. If a cat tree is not your style, clear off a sturdy shelf that he can jump up on. Adding a small pillow or blanket to the spot for napping will be very much appreciated too.
Don't give cats human medication. Some people incorrectly give cats human medications thinking it will be okay in small doses, but it can kill him or her. If your pet has any issues, take them to a vet for proper pet medication. Drugs and medicines designed for human consumption can cause serious health problems for cats, and in extreme cases, can even be fatal.
Male cats may develop crystals in the urine, which usually occur as a result of a poor diet. Passing crystals is very painful for your cat, and the vet's bill will be painful for you. Choose a low magnesium food. Be sure that you read the label. You will notice that fish-based foods and products are higher in levels of magnesium than anything sourced from poultry.
You may not want to leave your cat alone in your home while you go on a trip. The cost of a kennel is often high, though. This task can be made easier if you talk to your vet and get a referral for a qualified pet sitter. A good sitter is one who has a quality relationship with the vet, and it's one who most likely is more experienced and will be able to provide proper care to the cat.
You should be proud to take care of your kitty. Through opening your home and heart, you help an animal that needs you. You'll also build a relationship with your pet. Take great care of your cat and it will be rewarding. See our website to read about clipping cat claws.
