So you are finally ready to adopt a cat, but it is your first time and you are still nervous about your choice? Choosing the right cat can be an extremely challenging process. There are certain variables that you should keep in mind to help select a cat that works well in your environment.
It’s crucial that your pet gets checkups from your vet regularly. Not only will a veterinarian give a general physical exam, he or she will also make sure they have necessary vaccinations. Make sure you keep the same veterinarian for your pet throughout its life. They will learn your cat’s history best.
If you have an old cat, you can help make its bed more comfortable by placing heated tiles underneath it. Put a square foot of terra cotta tile into your oven heated to 200 degrees. Keep the tile in the oven for about 15 minutes. Place it in an older towel and place it underneath of the feline’s bed. You can even switch it out every few hours.
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.
It may prove quite a challenge to make your cat stay off counter tops. Cats like to climb on things and a counter can look very inviting. One way to deal with this issue could be to devote certain high spaces for your feline friend to sit in. If you don’t want your cats to jump on your counters, you can put a cat condo in or around the kitchen.
If your cat kicks litter all over the floor, simply use a bigger container. A large, roomy tote with high sides makes a good litter box. A big round tub also makes a good litter box. A restaurant size bus tub is a capacious litter box. Providing higher sides and more space will solve your cat’s litter kicking problem.
Cats are pretty low maintenance pets. They do not need as much attention and one-on-one time as dogs do. Cleaning the litter box is one of the most dreaded chores in the house. Investing in a good self-cleaning litter box can help to reduce the amount of times you have to clean it out.
When bringing a new kitten home, take it slow. It is tempting for children to want to play with the new addition to your home immediately. But the young cat will likely be scared. Give the cat time to acclimate itself to your home and to get comfortable with everyone.
If you notice that your cat is not using the litter box as much as usual, you should go and take them to a vet right away. There are several health problems that can cause the cat to stop using the box. These issues include bladder problems, constipation and diarrhea.
If your cat bothers your Christmas tree or other plants, try beating him at his own game. Make his favorite chewing and climbing areas unattractive to him by placing the peelings of oranges, lemons or grapefruit around the places you wish for him to avoid. Cats hate citrus, and this is a natural way to keep them from getting into trouble.
You should give your cat at least three weeks to grow used to the presence of a new animal. They may seem like they’re fighting all the time. Sooner or later, they’ll tolerate and even begin to love each other.
Entertain your cat with simple “toys” made from household objects. Many cats enjoy exploring boxes, such as those that hold 12-packs, small appliances, or other products. Before allowing your pet to play with a box, you should be sure that the animal cannot get stuck in small openings or tight spaces. This would be dangerous and very frightening to your pet!
By getting your cat the shots and check-ups that it needs, you’ll be able to make sure that your cat lives as long as possible. Similar to kids, cats need shots and check-ups to prevent health problems. You have made your cat a family member, and you have to treat your cat accordingly.
Get your cat all the necessary vaccinations. There are a number of them and you should talk to your veterinarian about the proper schedule. Many are given at the early stages of a kitten’s development, then given annually thereafter. These vaccinations prevent such problems as feline leukemia, rabies and respiratory problems.
There are lots of cats out there that do not have homes. Consider adopting one from your local pet agency before heading to the pet store. They usually provide the cat with all of the necessary shots before you adopt them. The cats are also spayed or neutered to prevent pet overpopulation.
When it comes to cat litter, you should scoop out all of the waste on a daily basis. Cats will not use a litter box that is overflowing with waste, and they will start looking for somewhere else to use the bathroom. Change the entire box at least once every few weeks.
Cats have a very sensitive nose and can easily detect any changes to their environment. Sometimes this causes problems if you introduce a new food dish, bed, or scratching post. Your cat will probably not like these items immediately; therefore, be patient. The object will begin to smell more like home, and the cat is more likely to feel comfortable.
Your cat should fit in right along side your friends, and this requires some thorough searching with certain attributes in mind. Take the time to follow these tips and pick a kitten that stands out from the rest. Before long, you will have a new addition to the family that everyone loves!
