Cat Care Tips - 10 Tips for You and Your Cat

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By Kurt Schmitt


Feline Care Essentials

I think you'll agree that cats and people come from very different worlds. As such, it's amazing that we can live together so well. These cat care tips cover subjects such as bringing out your kitty's hunting instincts, and preventing litter box problems. Following these tips will help you and your kitty to better bond and enjoy each other's company.

1. Handle your cat as much as possible -- if you do this, she'll do better when it comes time to get checked by the vet or have her claws trimmed. Some cats just don't like to be picked up no matter what. But, if you can start handling your cat often when she's a kitten, chances are good she'll better accept it later in life.

2. Give your cat a quickie physical -- grooming sessions are a good time to examine your cat for common health problems. Check for fleas, ear mites, and signs of pain, swelling, or injury. Check your cat's eyes, teeth, gums, ears, skin, and limbs for problems.

3. Let your cat sunbathe -- cats love heat. In fact, domestic cats love warmth so much that they've been known to singe their fur on a hot stove. Cats love to sunbathe, so provide a bed for your cat by a window so she can have her place in the sun.

4. Keep your cat indoors -- every major cat care organization recommends keeping your cat indoors for safety, better health, and a longer life. Cats can live out a healthy life indoors, get the exercise they need, and survey their territory from a nice spot in front of the window.

5. Let your cat hunt -- no, don't let your cat hunt mice outdoors. Instead, spread some treats around the house and bring out the hunting instincts in your cat. This will make feeding time a bit more fun. Also, your cat will probably enjoy it if you toss dry food bits and let her chase them down.

6. Lots of litter boxes -- the objective is to have a fresh, available box to use at any given time for each cat. Some cats don't like using a box that was recently used, even if they were the one to use it. So, follow the one plus one rule, which is one box for each cat in the house plus one more additional box.

7. Clean the cat litter box twice a day -- clean the box twice a day and change the litter every few weeks, thoroughly scrubbing the box and disinfecting with bleach when you do. Keeping the box spotless will help prevent any possible cat litter box problems that might arise.

8. Set aside playtime for you and your cat -- play fetch with your cat, or dangle toys on a string for her. Play a game of tag and take turns chasing each other around the house whenever you can. Increase your cat's exercise level daily and you'll help lower risks of heart disease, diabetes and other diseases.

9. Provide a variety of interesting cat toys -- always leave your cat's favorite toys accessible, but rotate the others to keep it interesting. You should not leave your cat unsupervised while playing with most toys, however, as injury can occur. Also, a shoe lace, belt, or rope, if used safely, can make a great interactive toy. Playing with toys provides exercise for your cat, and fun for both of you.

10. Get your cat a feline friend -- every cat lover knows that two cats are better than one. When you can't pay attention to your cat, a playmate in the house will. A second cat around the house will help to stave off boredom, encourage exercise, and offer comfort. Bored kitties are prime candidates for behavior problems, and are more likely to cause mischief.

Giving in to your cat's instincts will make your kitty a better adjusted family member. More touching will bring you closer and make your cat more social, and keeping your cat indoors will keep her safe. The cat care tips concerning the litter box will save you some headache, and keeping your cat in good shape and never bored will keep her happy, and both of you out of trouble.

Here are at least 15 more cat care tips on feline health and well-being.

Teddie cat in picnic basket
Teddie cat in picnic basket

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anonymous  says:
8 months ago

good advice !

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