Few animals give a pet owner more satisfaction than the feline. They are smart, funny and have a level of arrogance to compete with some of the most conceded humans there are! Most of all though, cats need love and attention. The following article offers tips on caring for your feline friend.
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.
If you cat is pregnant is with babies, you can expect to have a lot of kittens on your hands. Create a comfortable place for the cat to deliver her babies somewhere in your home. Make sure the spot is big enough for the kittens to move around as they grow.
Think about putting a microchip in your pet. Even indoor cats can decide to run away at a moment’s notice, escaping through an open window. Tags and collars are great, but if a cat escapes them, there’s no guaranteeing they’ll make it home safe and sound. A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and can hold all of your contact information. Most vets and animal shelters will have a microchip scanner and because it’s under the animal’s skin it can never become lost.
If you want to have your cat for many years, it is a good idea to keep them indoors. While a cat may enjoy going outside, it is statistically proven that outdoor cats live shorter lives than indoor cats. There are dangers to a cat that spends time outside, not least of all other animals.
A cat’s nails can grow really quickly. They sharpen their nails by scratching on different surfaces like a scratching post. You can help avoid your cat destroying your furniture by clipping their nails often. This will help to discourage your cat from scratching at different things around your house.
Most cats love to lounge right on your lap. As cozy as this can be, it is not always convenient. If your cat has a favorite spot, such as on your lap at the computer it can be hard to get things done. Getting a pet bed for your cat and perching it right next to your chair can help satisfy your cats need to be near you.
To make sure your kitten is properly socialized to humans, begin early in his life, about ten to twelve weeks of age. Be sure that he is handled and petted by humans in his family and by others as well. When he is older, he will be a calmer, friendlier cat.
When getting a small kitten to eat dry kitten food, be patient. At first they usually just play with food. It may take a little while, but they’ll eventually learn that they are supposed to eat it rather than toy with it. If the food is moistened first with milk, a kitten may take to it faster.
If you have more than one cat, it is a good idea for you to give them each their own food bowls. Place them far apart so that each cat has their space. If you provide just one bowl for the cats to share, it may cause larger cats to bully the smaller ones.
When taking your cat or kitten to the vet, or to other places that involve a car ride, it is wise to socialize him to this situation. Try taking your cat, always in a carrier, on short rides, adding time to the ride every so often. Getting your pet used to the car can mean the end of his fear and frustration, as well as yours.
Make sure that you change your cat’s food and water on a regular basis. Just like humans, cats want to eat fresh food and drink water that is clean. Feed them at the same time each and every day if you want them to get into a regular feeding routine.
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.
When you’re smitten with your kitten, it’s tempting to dole out treats generously. However, treats are meant to be just that. They lack the nutritional value of regular cat food. Treats should not make up more than 5 percent of your pet’s daily diet. Any more than that may prevent your cat from receiving the nutrients it needs for good health.
Once your cat starts to age, they may have to go to the vet more often than they did before. To make sure that your senior cat is in optimal health, you should take him to see the vet at least twice a year. Make sure that you follow any advice given to you during the visit.
If your cat goes outdoors and wears a collar, make sure it is a self breaking collar in the event of an emergency. A self breaking collar will come loose if it gets stuck on something, such as a fence or tree. This can keep your pet from chocking, and it might even save your pet’s life.
Cats have a certain way about them which really can’t be described with words. To own one though, surely is to love one! Hopefully this article has helped you in your quest to learn more about cats and taking care of them. They are amazing companions and you should enjoy yours for many years to come.
