Guides and Tips for Cat Parents
Cats are awesome.
We know we're biased—but after digging into the scientific literature and talking to cat experts, it turns out that even the most hard-hearted scientists have a soft spot for our furry feline friends. But while we all love cats, not all cat owners know how to properly care for their furry friends. We have curated this blog to help you understand how to take better care of your cat.
Adopting a Cat
If you're considering adopting a cat, we recommend you do some research first. The best way to do this is by contacting your local shelter or rescue organization and asking them what kind of cat would be right for you. They can help narrow down the selection based on your lifestyle, home environment, and more. Once you've found the right cat, slowly introduce the new pet into your home. This will help them adjust to their new environment and feel safe.
The best way to do this is by keeping them in a room with their litter box, food, and water for at least 24 hours. This will help them get used to your home's smells and adjust to their new surroundings before they meet other pets or people. The next step is to let them explore your home on their terms. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how well they adjust. If you notice any signs of stress, such as excessive meowing or scratching at doors, this may indicate that they aren't ready yet and should stay in the room longer.
When it comes to introducing a new cat to your existing pets, it's important not to rush things. The introduction process should take at least two weeks, ideally three months. This will allow all parties to get used to each other and establish boundaries.
Taking Care of your Cat
Taking care of your cat is essential to being a pet parent. In addition to providing food and water, it's important to provide them with toys and space to play. The best toys for your cat are ones that provide them with mental stimulation. Try to choose toys that have an element of surprise or can be played with differently. For example, a laser pointer will always be fun for any cat, but it's also good to have some other toy on hand, so your furry friend doesn't get bored.
Preparing your Home for your Cat
Cats are clean and tidy animals, and they can be sensitive to changes in their environment. Before bringing your new cat home, it's crucial to ensure that your house is ready for them. In addition to a clean litter box, provide plenty of space for them to play and exercise. Cats are very territorial animals, so they need their own space in the house that they can call their own. This will help prevent stress and provide them a safe place to retreat if they feel threatened by another animal or person.
Providing Proper Nutrition for your Cat
Cats are carnivores, and their bodies require a high-protein diet. Most cat foods contain meat byproducts, grains, and vegetables that provide fiber and vitamins. Ask your vet to suggest a suitable food for your cat. Suppose your cat suffers from a urinary tract infection or kidney disease. In that case, you may need to feed it prescription diets specially formulated for these conditions. If you have a multiple cat household, ensure they all eat the same food. This will prevent competition between the cats over food and reduce stress in the household.
If you have a senior cat with health conditions, talk to your vet about the best type of diet for it. You can find cat food in both dry and wet forms. Dry kibble is convenient for owners because it doesn't spoil quickly and can be stored in airtight containers. However, many cats prefer wet food because it has more moisture content (which helps hydrate their kidneys).
Keeping your Cat's Temperament in Check
Cats can have behavioral issues like aggression. These types of behavior can be stressful for both the cat and owner, so it's essential to try to prevent them from happening in the first place. If you think your cat may be aggressive toward other animals or people, talk with your vet or an animal behaviorist about how best to handle the issue.
Kittens are especially prone to marking, so it's essential to start training them early. Keep an eye on your kitten when alone and try to get them used to be in new environments without spraying. If possible, try taking your cat for regular walks with you and other pets (but don't leave the house if they haven't been fully trained yet).
You can also try making it easier for your cat to go outside by creating a kitty garden or putting up a window perch. If you have an outdoor cat, ensure they always have access to the house and keep them inside at night.
FAQs
What is it like to be a cat owner?
Though cats are independent, they are also very affectionate with their owners. Most cats love to cuddle with their owner and play with them.
Can cats see TV?
Unlike dogs, who seem uninterested in TVs, cats have super keen sight. They can take in imagery much faster than even humans can. This means they can see modern TV screens showing images much quicker than old TV screens.
Do cats like to be talked to?
As a rule, yes, cats like it when you talk to them, and there's scientific research to back that up. Cats pay attention to their owner's voices, though they are likelier to respond when that voice is calm or soft.
Published By: Admin
Published On: 4-September-2022