Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or simply want to brush up on your knowledge, there are a few things to know about owning a feline.
New cat owners will need to prepare their home so that their feline friends feel welcome and comfortable. Here are some of our Cat Owners tips to help!
1. Get a Litter Box
It is important to get a litter box for your cat because it fulfills a fundamental need and enables them to mark their territory. It also helps keep your home clean and smelling fresh, which is great for you and your pet!
Depending on your cat’s needs, there are several different types of boxes. They range from a traditional covered or uncovered rectangular box to self-cleaning ones.
A high-sided litter box is a must for many cats because it helps contain urine overspray. This makes it easier for you to scoop out the litter and keep the floor cleaner.
A top-entry litter box is another popular choice because it keeps pawfuls of litter from flinging all over your house. It also has grooves that keep your cat’s paws from getting stuck in the box’s liner.
2. Give Your Cat a Place to Hide
Cats like to hide, whether they are hiding from something, or just in search of a safe place to lie down and relax. If your cat is displaying more hiding behavior than usual it might be due to a health issue, so if you notice this happening, it is important to take them to the vet to check their health.
For many cats, a cardboard box is their ideal hiding spot. They can curl up and nap there, or they can use it as a base for hunting.
3. Give Your Cat a Place to Scratch
Your cat has a natural need to scratch. It helps them communicate with other cats, mark their territory and get a good stretch.
But it can also be a sign of stress. And if you notice your cat scratching a lot in one place, it might be a sign that they feel uncomfortable there.
In such cases, you need to make sure they have a variety of scratching options.
You can start by placing a scratcher in your cat’s favorite spot and then redirect them to it when they’re looking for a good scratch. You can even try rubbing catnip on it to encourage them to scratch there more often!
4. Keep Your Cat Indoors
Choosing to keep your cat indoors can seem like a daunting task, but it’s essential to their mental and physical wellbeing. They need plenty of stimulation and exercise to stay healthy and avoid behavioural problems, so you’ll need to dedicate a lot of time to creating a feline-friendly environment inside your home.
Keeping your cat indoors also protects them from predators, prevents them from contracting diseases and extends their lifespan. It can also help prevent them from becoming lost, injured or killed by a vehicle.
Cats that have been kept inside may show a lot of reluctance to venture out for a long period of time at first, but if they are well cared for and get lots of affection from you, they will soon realise the benefits of indoor living.
5. Keep Your Cat Healthy
If you’re thinking of adopting a cat, you probably want to know how to keep your feline friend healthy and happy. Whether your new fur baby is a kitten or an older cat, there are many things you can do to ensure they live a long, healthy life.
One of the most important ways to keep your cat healthy is to make sure they see their veterinarian regularly. This will help them get regular vaccinations, flea and tick preventative treatments, and deworming protocols.