It isn’t always easy to make a cat happy. They can be very mysterious, even from the moment they enter your home. However, if you have the right information, it can be easier to take care of them, even if you can’t plase them. You should keep reading for some useful tips that will help you become a better pet owner.
Feed a small amount of food:
To help prevent tapeworm infestation in cats, feed a small amount of food grade diatomaceous earth for two weeks out of each month. About a quarter of a teaspoon per cat per day is adequate. Food grade diatomaceous earth kills internal parasites and causes them to be expelled from the system.
Get a pet water fountain:
Cats can be prone to dehydration, and running water entices them to drink. It is an evolutionary habit that developed because in the wild, running water is less likely to be contaminated than a stagnant pool. Your pet will enjoy the water more, and will drink more often.
Never have your cat declawed:
Many people misunderstand declawing, thinking it is the simple removal of a cat’s nail. This is not true. In fact, the veterinarian must remove the top knuckle along with the claw during the procedure. This can result in arthritis pain later in life and many behavior problems, such as biting. There are many alternatives from scratching posts to glue-on claw caps that can protect your belongings from a cat’s claws without resorting to such a harsh surgical solution.
Do not assume that because a medication is okay for you to take, that it is safe for your cat as well. Many medications made for humans are lethal to cats, such as acetaminophen containing drugs and aspirin. Always check with your veterinarian before you give your cat anything.
Keep the litter box clean:
Cats are naturally very clean animals, and a dirty litter box will have your cat looking for alternative places to relieve himself. Cats also value their privacy, so try to locate the box in an area that does not get a lot of foot traffic.
Cats like to chase birds and catch them:
This helps cats to build and deliver crucial hunting skills. But what if you have an indoor cat? You can find cat toys at the pet store that will help you simulate a bird flying around. Your cat will love it, and love you for it. If your cat has to have a surgery such as being spayed or neutered, they will need rest when they come home. It is hard to keep a cat from jumping up on furniture, but necessary to avoid pulling out stitches. Designate an area in your house for your cat to recuperate where they will be less likely to injure themselves, until they are healed enough to roam free.
When something seems amiss with your feline friend, speak with other cat owners. Although you may feel like you don’t need help, other owners may be able to give you good advice. Participate in online discussion boards for cat owners, or pick up the telephone and speak with your vet.
Cats have a natural instinct to hunt small prey:
This can sometimes be a problem if you have other small animals in your home. Make sure that bird cages are hanging from the ceiling. If you have a gerbil or hamster, make sure their cages are secure and up high out of your cats reach.
The chances are good that your cat will come running for their favorite treat. There are many different recipes out there specifically for homemade treats. This is a fun way to spoil your cat. There is also the benefit of knowing what exactly is consuming, to ensure that it is healthy for them.
If your cat has recently given birth, be sure she has a safe, private area to take care of them. Mother cats can become frightened by strangers or loud noise, sometimes leading to decreased milk production. They may also hide the kittens in places where you cannot find them, such as closets, or under beds.
Even if you’re not able to make your cat happy, you can still be a great cat owner with these tips. Take advantage of what you’ve learned so that you’ll be certain your pet has all that it needs. Once your cat is happy, you will be too. It could happen!