- Keep identification on your cat at all times. A collar with a tag is a great way to help identify your cat. However, many cats wear “breakaway” collars that release should they become trapped. If your kitty slips out of her collar or gets out of the house, a universal microchip may be the most reliable way to identify your cat. Implanting a microchip offers lifelong identification that will make reuniting you with your cat easier should your cat wonder too far from home. One in three pets will become lost during its lifetime and, according to the American Humane Association, only about 2% of lost cats are reunited with their owners. Most veterinary hospitals and shelters have the ability to scan your kitty for its microchip identification should she be found and brought into the facility.
- To ensure your cat’s safety and health, it is best to keep your cat indoors. Cats that are allowed to roam outside are more likely to get injured, lost or contract an infectious disease. The outdoors presents many dangers such as automobiles, dogs, rival cats, poisonous plants, parasites, predators and toxins like antifreeze. The estimated average life span of a free-roaming cat is less than 3 years compared to 15-18 years for the average indoor-only cat. It’s also important to remember that cats are predatory animals and have been known to injure or kill wild animals and birds. There are a number of fun activities you can do to enrich and challenge your kitty indoors. Indoor cats are by far safer and healthier.
- Whether you allow your kitty to curl up on your lap while you watch TV or play with a feather toy, make interactions with your cat fun and stimulating. Play and human socialization is very important, especially for kittens. Your cat’s personality will determine which activities suit her best. For more active and friendly cats, find toys and games that involve chasing an object. A more timid cat may prefer a few catnip toys or a soft, hollow object such as a kitty condo or an empty cardboard box in which to play and hide.
- Research a veterinarian and take your cat in for a routine exam at least once a year. Despite your kitty’s age or health, an annual trip to your vet is a must! The trained eyes of a veterinarian can often uncover problems or illnesses unknown to the owner. Allergies, kidney failure and diabetes are all common health problems that can effect cats. When diseases or injuries are diagnosed early, your cat has a better chance of recovery.
- Groom your cat frequently. Most cats spend a lot of their day grooming themselves; however, some cats may need a little extra help. An occasional bath, brushing or nail trim will ensure that your cat not only looks beautiful but also stays healthy. Checking your cat for fleas and ticks, keeping nails from overgrowing and keeping fur from becoming matted should become a routine part of your cat’s care.
- Keep your cat’s litter box clean. Whether you have one cat or three, keeping a clean and sanitary litter box is important for your cat. Cats can be finicky and have a very strong sense of smell. To ensure that your kitty toilets in the appropriate place, clean the litter box daily and discard the waste. If you have a multiple-cat household, this is imperative. You may even want to purchase more then one litter box. Generally speaking, one litter box per cat should suffice. Cats feel most comfortable using their litter box in a quiet area away from their food and bedding. Can’t blame them for wanting a little privacy!
- A common but often frustrating habit for cat owners is furniture scratching. Cats need to scratch for a number of reasons, such as marking, sharpening their nails and stretching. To keep your cat from becoming destructive, offer several scratching posts throughout your home. “A sprinkle of catnip once or twice a month will help keep your cat interested in her post.” You may be interested in a product called Soft Claws®, a plastic cover that fits over the nails and allows the cat to behave naturally but keeps its claws from scratching.
- Provide a high-quality food for your cat. Generally speaking, cats need a diet high in protein. Your cat’s age, breed, and activity level are factors in determining a high-quality food. “In general, it is recommended that an adult cat be fed two meals each day to keep her metabolism in check, if you have to left your cat alone for work or vacation, an automatic cat feeder is highly recommend. Cats that are free fed or have access to food throughout the day are prone to overeating. Talk to your veterinarian or your G’day! Pet Care Pro about what food is best for your cat. And always be sure to provide fresh clean water.
- Provide a safe hiding place, retreat or bed for your kitty. Cats need the security and comfort of a den should they feel uncomfortable or need to retreat. Watch your cat and see where she likes to sleep and hide. Some cats like to relax behind the couch while other cats prefer the tops of cabinets. Creating a safe and comfortable space for your can will make her feel more relaxed.
- One of the most important things you can do as a pet owner is to spay or neuter your cat. Not only is it a responsible thing to do for population control, but it also dramatically reduces the risk of health-related problems such as mammary cancer, testicular cancer and other reproductive problems. This simple procedure has been known to reduce inappropriate urination and marking behaviors and decrease aggression in some cats. Generally speaking, it is recommended that cats are spayed or neutered between five and six months of age. Spaying and neutering does NOT change your cat’s personality!