Have you recently adopted a cat or planning to adopt one? A cat is an easy pet to get along with. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t require our special attention. A cat has its own special needs that you might not be aware of.
So, before getting excited about the idea of adopting a cat, do some research on cats and read some articles written by cat owners. This will not necessarily change your decision but at least you will know what you are signing up for.
Here are some tips to help new pet owners take better care of their cats. Let’s start!
Grooming Sessions
Just like humans, cats need grooming sessions too. Give it a bath. Brush its teeth. Give it a massage. Trim its nails. Brush your cat’s hair regularly. This is good both for you and your cat. Brushing the hair will remove dead hair from its skin and prevent the hair from falling all over the house.
Regular grooming will help you keep a check on the health of your cat and its skin. It will also help you to spot potential problems or diseases early. Moreover, giving your cat grooming sessions will help strengthen your bond.
Healthy Diet
It’s advised to know what and when to feed your cat. It’s better to consult your vet before starting to give it food. The amount of food that is to be fed to the cat depends on the age, weight and activity level. A cat with a medical condition would require different types of food.
Do not overfeed your cat. A cat generally requires small portions of food at small intervals. If you have any reservations at all, ask your vet for the smallest of details like – the brand of food, the portion of food, what to feed etc.
Scratching Post
A cat has its special needs. A cat needs a surface to scratch on. It’s part of their behaviour and there is no way you can stop that. Not even through training. So, if you love your furniture, fabric and your personal stuff, get them a scratching post. Having a scratching post to scratch on will keep your cat sane and happy.
Litter Box
Get your cat a litter box, one that suits its size. Some cats that are old or have arthritis, find it hard to get out of the litter box. So get them a box that is easy to get out of.
Train your cat to urinate or poop inside the box. Clean the litter box regularly, it will be beneficial for both you and your cat. If, some day, it starts urinating outside the box, know it’s time to consult a vet.
Regular Checkups
Schedule regular visits to the vet. Get it’s health and weight checked. Your cat looking healthy doesn’t necessarily mean it’s healthy. After all, animals don’t speak. They can’t tell you their problems. Your vet can tell better if there are any concerns about its health.
Also, the vet will be able to catch diseases, if any, in their early stage. Your vet can also potentially let you know if there is anything that you have been doing wrong.
Vaccinations
There are some vaccinations which keep the anxiety levels of a cat in check. Some vaccinations are given for preventing potential feline diseases common in cats. You can also consider spaying or neutering your cat. This will prevent many prostate problems in males and many problems in females like ovarian cancer, breast tumor, etc.
Do not leave them alone
Cats, just like humans, do not want to be left alone in the house while the owner is away at home. And who knows, when you are back your house is a mess. After all, an anxious and curious cat is no good!
Cat boarding is an ideal option to consider in such a scenario. This ensures your cat gets good care while you are away, and also have friends to play with. Why leave your cat alone at home waiting for you the whole day when you can board them.
Final Words
Becoming a cat parent has to be a pleasant experience. It should not make you question your decision of getting a cat. A cat lives for over 20 years, so your feline is going to be with you for long. You better take good care of it! So, before it gets overwhelming, follow these tips and step on the path of successful cat parenting.
