Although cats make great pets, they can be expensive. Veterinarian bills, cat food, cat toys and kitty litter all add up. The following article will teach you what you need to know about caring for a cat.
You should always bring your cat to a vet to make sure everything is okay. Cats need vaccinations to keep them healthy, and your vet can keep an eye out for any other health issues. Try to keep the same vet during the life of your pet. This helps make sure your vet knows your cat’s history.
A heated tile can be positioned beneath the bed of a mature cat. Put a square foot of terra cotta tile into your oven heated to 200 degrees. Keep the tile in the oven for about 15 minutes. Wrap it up in a towel and place it under where your cat sleeps. If necessary, repeat this every few hours.
Regular visits to the vet will preserve your cat’s health. Your cat should have a health check yearly, but should go in more if your cat needs shots. Cats need to be seen by a vet right away if there are injuries or health problems that don’t go away.
If you have an outdoor cat, be sure he or she has a tagged collar. Cats can go far from home and without a tag they could become lost forever. The tag should contain at least the cat’s name and your contact information.
It’s not easy to keep cats off counters. If your cat is high, he can see everything that is going on. Give them an alternative. For example, give them a cat tower nearby.
It is a good idea to microchip your cat. Even an indoor cat may find a way out of your home. Even if you put a collar or tag on your cat, be careful as they can wiggle out of these very easily and can be dangerous if they get caught on a foreign object like a tree branch. Microchips are tiny and contain all your contact information. Most shelters and veterinarians can scan your pet to read the information on the chip, and the chip cannot be lost since it is beneath the skin.
Location is key when placing a litter box. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals. The area should also be well ventilated so that it doesn’t smell too badly. Your cat and you will appreciate it.
Caring for your cat is fun but it can also be a lot of work. There are so many things to do that it is akin to having a child. You should apply the tips you just read, and do your best to be a responsible cat owner.