Proper Cat Care Is Simple With These Tips. by Tammi P. Pottebaum

May 11, 2012 - After you have their first cat, many families encounter unexpected issues. If you do not prepare for your cat ahead of time, you will be in danger. Some problems come even with total preparation. The best plan is to use the tips in this article to prepare yourself after which expect to be amazed. When searching for a new cat for your home, contact a local pet shelter. Many shelters convey more cats than they can handle and the fees associated with adoption look after vet visits. You're really saving a life and keeping the feline population under control all in one! A cat can do lots of damage to your furniture using its claws. Look at a scratching post or kitty tower in case your cat's claws be a problem. Help them learn to scratch onto it instead of your belongings. This method takes time, but it usually works. You should get your cat a tagged collar or cat dress, even when it is not legally required. By doing this, if your cat gets lost and is found by an unfamiliar person, that person will know how to contact you. At the minimum, you should include your contact info and the name of the cat on the tag. High areas are ideal for cats. Designating a high-up area where your cat can hang out and watch everything from will help him to feel comfortable. Placing a shelf or two up high will not occupy too much space in your house. You can even lay out a blanket to give your kitty some comfort. If you're experiencing a problem with your feline friend, talk to others. It may really help to get advice from fellow cat owners. There are many online forums that discuss cats. Most vets will also be happy to assist you with some advice. Try figuring out why the cat is purring. Learning about your cat's meows will be easier the more you know her. It could be she's hungry or must go outside. You should pay attention to these cues and you'll eventually learn to decipher them. If you are considering a long-haired cat breed then you should also think about the extra maintenance required. Long-haired cats shed constantly, and also the fur winds up on your clothing, floors, and everything else in your home. Only select a cat with long hair if you can clean up after it consistently. Additionally, take into account that longer-haired cats may have issues with hairballs. Purchase a drinking fountain for the cat. Cats living in the wild like drinking from flowing water, and they have exactly the same desires in a home. Streaming water is less difficult for your cat to take. You could even consider turning on your sink several times a day to let your cat drink from the faucet. A fountain can give them the same effect, which is more eco-friendly. You have to carefully consider in which you put the cat litter box for your cat. It's sometimes tempting to put the box somewhere you don't have to smell or view it. The [ litter box] should be somewhere that's easy for your cat to get to, however. Cats could be finicky, so it's important that you give them an environment they think comfortable in. For example, a rug or mat is a good way to create a litter box placed on a concrete floor more attractive to your cat. In case your cat is prone to regular hairballs even after brushing regularly, keep reading for some sound advice that can help you out. Try mixing a teaspoon of pumpkin together with your cat's food. One more thing that works is really a one teaspoon of the water that's in a tuna can mixed with the pumpkin. Some cat foods even have anti-hairball benefits. Watch out for panting. Panting is normal for a dog. Cats often pant when they're anxious or overheated, but this may also signal a far more serious issue. Do not hesitate to contact a vet, especially if there has been past respiratory problems. Do not overfeed your cat because this can lead to a lot of health issues in the future. Eating over the normal amount can cause them to develop serious health issues or become obese. Carefully monitor your cat's portions to ensure they eat a balanced diet. Cats, like all pets, could be expensive. You should care for your dog like you would care for a child. You can reduce your expenses while still using the best take care of your kitten.