It isn’t easy to adopt a cat and quickly get up-to-speed on how to care for it. You need to prepare when getting a pet so you avoid mistakes. Even with the most preparation, it can still be tough to anticipate everything a cat might do or need. However, preparing yourself in advance is best, and it helps you be ready for your new pet.
When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. Many shelters have more cats than they can handle and the fees associated with adoption take care of vet visits. When a cat is adopted from an animal shelter it saves its life and it helps control the cat population.
Make sure you keep all the recommended appointments with your cat’s veterinarian. There are shots and vaccinations that are standard and necessary for your cat. Try using one veterinarian consistently. Your veterinarian needs to know about your pet’s history, and your cat will feel more comfortable if you always take her to the same vet.
Do not allow your cat to be bored frequently. Every cat needs exercise time and play! Unfortunately, many owners do not realize this important part of ownership. Bored cats can become depressed and inactive, causing harm to their well-being. Provide your cats with the toys and space it needs. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.
When it comes to litter boxes, placement is everything. Never put the box near your cat’s food, and pick a quiet place away from areas that are heavily used. Put it in a ventilated area to reduce odors. Your cat will certainly appreciate your efforts, and you will too!
Don’t leave a kitten with small kids. Particularly if the children are younger than five, they need supervision. You may not have noticed a problem when you see them together, but very kids do not really understand they can accidentally harm or kill a kitten. As children grow, it will be easier to see if they’re mature enough to handle a cat.
Speak with other cat owners about any issues you may be having. Although you may feel like you don’t need help, other owners may be able to give you good advice. Use the Internet to share tips with other cat owners and ask your questions or talk with your neighbors, friends or veterinarian.
Your cat should be acclimated to a carrier as a kitten. Dogs and cats will respond differently to punishment. They prefer encouragement instead. Place a beloved blanket or item inside the carrier and let it stay open near the cat’s usual haunts. The cat will feel safe when it enters this carrier after a while. Then, you will have no problem using the carrier.
What you have seen here is tips that apply to cats across the board, regardless of breed. They are basic ideas relating to raising small cats in all sorts of circumstances. Having fun with a new cat is the most vital concept!