Owning a cat can be be very rewarding. They make very comforting pets. However, there is also a lot of hard work that goes into being a cat owner. The article below has some great tips on how you can take proper care of your cat. Read on and learn.
Make sure your cat is always groomed. Brushing is a very important component towards taking care of your cat. This will keep them sterile and aesthetically pleasing. It also reduces their shedding and hairballs. Brushing your cat will keep your home cleaner, too.
Realize that cats do not normally pant. Dogs pant to keep cool. If a cat pants, it’s a sign of trouble. Your cat could be very anxious or in pain. Likewise, rapid breathing is a sign of pain or anxiety. Be sure to contact your vet right away if your cat starts panting.
Think about getting a microchip for your feline friend. One day, your indoor cat might leave through an open door or get outside through an open window. Cats can get out of a collar or, worse, have that collar choke them to death. Microchips are very small, approximately as large as a single grain of rice. Although they are small, they can hold your entire contact information. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.
Don’t allow your cat to get bored too often. Cats should have a lot of exercise and playtime. Sadly, this can be easily overlooked. Bored cats can become depressed and inactive, causing harm to their well-being. Make sure your cats have a wide variety of toys and plenty of room for active play. Indoor cats will appreciate having a structure they can climb on or a dedicated scratching post.
Do you love your cat but suffer from allergies? If giving up your feline-friend is not something that you can do, try these things first. Get rid of as much carpeting as possible because your cats dander gets trapped in it. You can also not allow your cat in your bedroom at all. This will make living with your cat easier on your allergies.
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.
Get your feline acclimated to its carrier. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Most of the time, it is better to use positive reinforcement. Place a loved blanket and favorite toy into a carrier and then leave the door open. Make sure it’s in an area that the cat frequents. Soon, your cat will naturally enter the carrier. Then, you will have no problem using the carrier.
Clean your cat’s eyes as frequently as possible because their vision is extremely important and extremely sensitive. Cats interpret five times as much visual stimuli during their day and the smallest particle can become stuck and cause damage. A pair of thumbs and a damp cloth are perfect for clearing the eyes and keeping your cat clean.
If your cat is refusing to use his litter box, you should try putting it in a different location. Instinctively, cat’s will search out a safe place to eliminate, so try relocating the litter box to a quiet and secluded area. Basements, laundry rooms, and other low traffic locations are a great choice.
As was mentioned in the beginning of this article, there are many benefits to owning a cat for a pet. However, if you want your cat to live a long and healthy life, you must take proper care of it. Be sure and use the tips mentioned so that your cat remains happy and healthy.