Care and Feeding of Your Cat

Taking on a pet around the house is a big responsibility. Cats require a lot of attention and time; in return they will be loving companions and very affectionate. Caring for your cat is much like caring for a member of the family. They require you to do almost everything for them. Although most may act independent they still depend on you to provide the basic necessities for them and much more. Here are some tips for caring for your cat.

Tip #1: Make sure you get a collar

Cats like to wonder, so it’s important that one of the first things you do is get them a collar and ID tag that has your name, address, and phone number on it. In case it gets lost that is the only way someone has of reaching you. Getting a collar and ID tag will also ensure that if the cat gets out and wanders too far it won’t be picked up by the pound or an animal shelter home.

Tip #2: Find a good vet

Every animal needs to have a good veterinarian. You can look through the yellow pages, on the internet, or better yet ask around the neighborhood and see what friends and family use for their pets. It’s important to have a vet in case health problems come up, or there are serious medical issues that require immediate attention. Some cats are very healthy, while others are not. A good vet can help you get your cat all the right vaccinations and keep them healthy and strong. Once you have found a good vet make sure you take them in for regular check ups and visits to keep them as healthy as possible.

Tip #3: Remember the basics

Some people give their cat dry food while others prefer wet. It’s really a personal preference; just make sure you are giving it enough food and especially enough water. Dehydration can lead to death. You can ask your vet what they would suggest you feed your cat or just go by trial and error. You will want to look for cat food that has extra nutrients or vitamins in it to keep their bones nice and strong.

Tip #4: Train your cat

Many cats especially when they are new kittens don’t come house trained. It’s in your best interest to train them from undesirable behaviors before they get too old. Teaching them how to use a litter box is one of the things you will want them to learn and will take a lot of time and patience. Refraining from scratching the furniture and jumping off furniture are also behaviors that need to be stopped immediately. This will take a lot of patience so don’t give up if it doesn’t work the first few times.

Tip #5: Remember to change the litter box

Some people think that just getting a litter box is enough, but it isn’t. You need to change your litter box at least once a week, and sometimes more. Think of it like this, how much would you like to use the toilet if it only got flushed once a week or so?

Tip #6: Have your cat spayed or neutered

Unless you’re really wanting an extra litter of kittens, it’s a good idea to have your cat spayed or neutered. Not only does it cut down on the amount of unwanted kittens but it’s healthier for your cat.

As you can see form this short list of helpful tips on caring for your cat, that having a pet takes a lot of time, patience, and effort. You might want to think twice about getting one if you’re not up to the job. Talk with a vet to make sure you’re doing everything you need to properly care for your cat.

Author: Beverly Frank

Visit http://www.litterboxroundup.com for more cat care advice, including how to solve litter box problems.

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