You may have trained several dogs in the past, but nothing can prepare
you for raising your new feline friend. Cats are nothing like dogs. They
require more attention during their growing years and more personal
time playing with their owner. This article will highlight some of the
main differences between the two.
When feeding your cat, purchase canned cat food instead of the
alternative. This food has more fat and protein, and it tends to have a
lot more water as well. Finally, even picky cats will generally eat
canned foods while they may turn their noses up at the dry stuff.
Do not give your cat pet treats just because they are begging for them.
These should be given as reinforcements for doing good behavior. If you
give your cats treats every time that they want them, there will be
nothing to motivate them to behavior better than they have been.
If your cat is picky about drinking water, invest in a cat fountain.
These battery operated or plug in fountains keep water circulating and
aerated. Many cats prefer this. A cat fountain will help keep your cat
out of the kitchen sink and the toilet. It will also help prevent your
cat from pawing water onto the floor in search of fresh water.
Realize that cats do not normally pant. Dogs pant to keep cool. If a cat
pants, it's a sign of trouble. Your cat could be very anxious or in
pain. Likewise, rapid breathing is a sign of pain or anxiety. Be sure to
contact your vet right away if your cat starts panting.
Although depicted in countless movies and cartoons, milk is not the best
source of nutrition for your cat. Once cats have grown, they do not
need milk as a regular part of their diet. Milk can cause stomach
distress and bloating. Instead of giving your cat milk, always have
fresh, clean water available to them instead.
Your cat might not come running when you call, but most cats enjoy cuddling on their terms and time. Cats love to have their heads and backs pet. Not all cats like their tummies rubbed so be careful. Spending quality time with your cat will make lasting memories to look back on someday.
Don't be pushy when you are getting to know your new cat. Cats prefer to be in control and take things at their own pace. Make sure your new cat is comfortable and safe. Let your cat take its time exploring its new environment. When your cat feels at home, it will be more likely to try to make friends with you.
To keep your cat healthy and strengthen its bond with you, always set aside lots of play time. Kittens especially need lots of attention, which you can easily give to them through play. Pull a piece of string around for a fun and gentle way to keep a cat entertained for hours!
Clip your cats nails regularly. Cats do have to scratch. However, when cats scratch, their nail sheaths come off and their sharp, pointy claws are exposed. Clipping your cat's claws every two to three weeks keeps them blunt and helps keep harm to furniture, humans, and other pets to a minimum.
Give your new cat some space. Moving to a new home can be stressful on a cat, especially one who is no longer a kitten. To help them adjust, give them a quiet place that they can call their own, such as a spare bathroom or laundry room. This gives them a safe space they can retreat to until they have become comfortable with exploring the whole house. Depending on the cat, this process may take a few days up to a month or more.
As your cat gets older, changes in behavior may signal pain. If your cat doesn't like to jump or climb any more, it may be in pain. If your cat stops taking care of grooming or stops using its litter box, pain may be the cause. Be sure to have your older cat checked out by your vet if you notice behavior changes.
For a healthier, happier cat choose plain litter over scented litter. Cats like nice, clean, clumping cat litter. Scoop your cats litter box daily and change it completely every three days or so. When you change the box, wash it out with water and dish soap. Don't waste your money on liners as cats tend to destroy them.
While both animals are great to have and can peacefully exist with one another under one roof, don't take adopting a new kitten too lightly. Plan ahead and have enough resources in reserve like cat food and such. If you are going to train your cat indoors, don't forget to buy extra litter for the first few months because they can get messy.
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