There are so many joys you can get from just having a cat. With great animals comes great responsibility, however, and you are obligated to take care of your pet. You need to know what you’re getting into. This article has tips from the pros you can’t care for a cat without. Continue reading to learn some excellent approaches to caring for your feline friends.
If your cat is picky about drinking water, invest in a cat fountain. These battery operated or plug in fountains keep water circulating and aerated. Many cats prefer this. A cat fountain will help keep your cat out of the kitchen sink and the toilet. It will also help prevent your cat from pawing water onto the floor in search of fresh water.
Never have your cat declawed. Many people misunderstand declawing, thinking it is the simple removal of a cat’s nail. This is not true. In fact, the veterinarian must remove the top knuckle along with the claw during the procedure. This can result in arthritis pain later in life and many behavior problems, such as biting. There are many alternatives from scratching posts to glue-on claw caps that can protect your belongings from a cat’s claws without resorting to such a harsh surgical solution.
Give your cats easier access to a window in order to keep your curtains from getting scratched. Putting vertical blinds up will allow the easiest access for your cat, but if you need to keep your curtains, use a lightweight rod that will fall if your cat attempts to climb the curtains. It will keep both your curtains and your cat safe.
Do not flush clumpable litter in your toilet. This can lead to problems with your plumbing. Instead just lift the clumps and dispose of them in a trash bag. Don’t forget, moisture is what makes the litter clump in the first place! Avoid doing that to your pipes and just dispose of it properly.
Use short words when you want to express displeasure with your cat. A short ‘no’ will be remembered, even if not always followed. A lot of people think that cats don’t listen to anything, but short word commands are certainly understood by cats, and they will respond to those commands if you are consistent with them.
Cats can really be so much more than pets, they can be lifelong companions. It has been proven that cats can decrease your blood pressure, lessen the symptoms of depression and help you to live a longer happier life. If you feel like something is missing in your life, you might just need a cat.
A tablecloth should be made for your cats. Some cats prefer to remove their food from the dish and eat it off to the side. If this occurs, you will have a mess on your hands. The best thing for you to do is to have a place mat underneath the cat’s bowl.
Understand that cats enjoy being elevated. Designating a high-up area where your cat can hang out and watch everything from will help him to feel comfortable. If a cat tree is not your style, clear off a sturdy shelf that he can jump up on. Providing a blanket or bed for your cat is an extra treat for them.
It is important to make sure that your cat always has fresh water available. You should refill your cats water dish everyday with clean water. There are drinking fountains that provide your cat with a constant stream of fresh water, so you do not have to worry about changing it as often.
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.
Long-haired breeds are pretty, but understand how much work they are before you get one. Even though that nice coat of beautiful silky fur looks great, it can leave a mess on your floors, furniture and clothing. If you don’t mind cleaning, get a long-haired cat. Also, give them the right food which is anti-hairball.
When your cat has kittens, it can be tempting to get rid of them as soon as possible, but you should wait a reasonable amount of time. A kitten needs to learn a few things from mom before going off into the world alone, so give him six weeks to learn all he can.
Do not place the cat litter box in the same area where you place the bowl your cat eats from. Cats want a clear separation between the two areas, so make sure you give it to them. It is not likely you would want to eat in the same place where you use the bathroom, so give your cat the same courtesy.
Kittens should never be taken from their mothers before they are eight to ten weeks old. During this time, kittens learn most of their social and instinctive behaviors, and removing them from the mother too soon can cause future behavioral issues the mother cat could have taught them had they not been removed too early.
Cats create years of enjoyment for the families who own them. Pets are good for kids and adults. To ensure that your cat lives the healthiest and longest life possible, you’ll have to provide the proper care. If you’re ready to take the plunge and adopt a feline companion, keep this article’s information handy!
