There are many different breeds of cats. It is important to learn as much as you can about these creatures to assure you have the best relationship possible. Continue reading to learn all you can about having a pet cat.
If you have multiple cats, save money on cat dishes by checking your local dollar store for salsa dishes. You can usually get a package of three for a dollar. These are sturdy and come in pretty colors. They look nice in your kitchen, and they are just the right size for cat food.
If you replace an old scratching post, your cat may be unhappy with the new one. Save money on scratching posts. Wrap your old scratching post with some sisal rope to spiff it up. Your cat will be happy not to lose its favorite old post. You will save a little cash.
You can keep your cat away from electrical cords by spraying them with some bitter apple. Cat can sometimes chew on cords, and they should be covered to prevent this. Hide those loose cords and keep them out of sight in no longer needed paper towel rolls. The cords on electronics should be hidden as well.
If you absolutely must bathe a cat, set everything up in advance. Set up two tubs large enough to dunk a cat. Fill them with comfortably warm water. Set your open bottle of cat shampoo, a heavy towel, and a secure pet carrier close by. Wear heavy rubber gloves. Grasp your cat by the scruff of the neck. Dunk, shampoo and scrub quickly in one tub. Dunk to rinse in the second tub. Wrap the cat securely in the towel and place in the carrier to dry.
If you give your kids a kitten, provide them with firm boundaries at the same time. Let them know which rooms and areas your cats should not be in. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. Setting up rules ahead of time can help your kids understand better.
Never make the mistake of leaving a kitten in a room alone with small children. Never leave a pet alone with a child who is any younger than five. They’re not really mature enough to know how dangerous a kitten can be. When your children age, you will realize when they’re able to deal with a pet.
Don’t teach the basics of using a litter box. Using the litter box is instinctual for cats, and they require no training. Some individuals believe they should carry their cat to the litter box and rub paws into the litter. This actually can be quite traumatic for a cat.
Sometimes you need to give your cat a pill. Some cats are harder than others, but you should trim their nails first. Then hold the head, open the mouth, and put the pill in. Then blow on the cats face. This will likely make the cat lick its nose, and the pill will go down naturally.
Have patience with your cat. Remember that your cat is not a dog, and may not be as easily trainable as one. However, if you are being clear in your commands and gently encouraging them, you’ll find that your cat responds the way you want him to. Just be patient.
When you introduce a new cat into your home, you have to be careful with how your other cat reacts. Try giving the new cat a little space in one room at first, and then introduce him to the rest of the house. Make sure to have different litter boxes at first too. If you ease the new cat in, it will go more smoothly for everyone.
Understand that your cat is easily influenced by its surroundings. Cats have superior memories and will usually retain training for a lifetime. Conversely, they also retain frightening experiences and it takes them a long time to get over their fears. Be encouraging with your cat and avoid situations that scare them.
Keep a breakaway collar and tag on your cat. Even if your cat is a house cat, this is still a good idea. Cats are endlessly curious and may head out an open door or window. The tag should have your phone number on it. This is very important if your pet is likely to get lost or has some medical needs.
Do your best to keep your cat as healthy as possible and take it to the vet regularly. A kitten is not so different from a child. It needs properly-scheduled check-ups and immunizations to prevent medical complications down the road. A cat is a member of the family, and therefore, is entitled to the same treatment as other loved ones.
If your cat has bad breath, a trip to the vet is in order. Bad breath in cats can be a red flag for tooth decay or more serious conditions. These include diabetes, stomach problems and lung disorders. So, if your cat’s breath smells worse than the food he eats, get to the bottom of the issue before it gets out of control.
Cats have an uncanny ability to always find their way home. If you move to a new home, keep your cat inside for about a month. This will help your cat to familiarize themselves with the smells of your new place. If you let your cat out too soon, they might go home to the wrong house.
When your cat first gives birth to her kittens, resist the urge to pick them up. This is a crucial time for kittens to bond with their mother and learn some basics, so leave them alone. You should be able to have more interaction with the kittens after about a week.
It should now be possible for you to come out of your house and fight any stray cats that are trying to invade your yard. Cats can harm other pets, damage gardens and summon other cats. Therefore, give your cat as much love as possible. You could even end up bonding with one of the feral cats.