With their cheerful personalities, sweet demeanor, and adorable faces, cats make ideal pets. However, despite the widely circulated opinion, cats are not animals that do not need care! To keep your pussy healthy and happy, you need to know how to care for her and help create the best life for her.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Train Your Pussy to Pee in Place
Step 1. Encourage your cat to use the litter box
Most cats prefer litter boxes to other places in the house to relieve themselves because of the texture of the litter used. However, there are still steps that need to be taken to ensure that the litter box provided is the best place for your pussy to go.
- Place the box in a quiet location so that the cat is not disturbed by people, dogs, or loud noises.
- To keep the litter box clean, make sure you pick up the litter daily and clean the box weekly. Replace litter with new litter at least once a week.
- Provide several boxes if you have more than one cat. If you have two cats, provide three boxes to place in different rooms of the house. One cat may be trying to "bully" another, weaker cat so that it can't use one litter box.
Step 2. Make sure the litter box feels comfortable for the pussy to use
Don't scare or startle your cat while she is using the box. Otherwise, he will associate the box with a bad experience and avoid it instead. Buy a big box, even if you need to dig deeper. Cats feel more comfortable with a larger box (in terms of area, not height).
- Do not replace used litter products with products from other brands because cats do not like sudden changes. Replacing clay litter with clumpy litter types that can be picked up with a shovel (or vice versa) actually makes the pussy feel uncomfortable and stop using the litter box.
- Don't buy litter with a strong smell that might discourage him from using the litter box.
Step 3. Consider the condition of the cat that is young or old
Keep in mind that older kittens and cats with arthritis or other health problems may find it difficult to get in and out of boxes that are too high. Use a box with low walls and place it in an easily accessible place for a kitten or cat with special needs. You can also buy litter boxes with adjustable dimensions.
Step 4. Prepare the claw posts
Scratching is normal behavior in cats and you can't train them not to scratch. If your pussy still has claws, it will need a claw post or two to keep it from scratching furniture, wooden items, and other objects. By providing a paw pole, you give him the opportunity to exhibit normal, healthy cat behavior.
Step 5. Don't let cats come to or explore restricted surfaces or areas
Cats are very curious and will jump on the kitchen table or other places where they may not be allowed to go. However, this behavior can be treated with a plastic scat mat, a spray of water from a spray bottle, or a firm “no” warning. With time and patience, you can train him to stay away from protected areas.
You can also use a rattle can (an empty soda can filled with a few pebbles, with the opening covered with adhesive tape). Carefully drop the can onto the floor to shock it and move it away from restricted surfaces or areas. DO NOT throw the can at the pussy as this could jeopardize her safety
Step 6. Use a cat pheromone product
Products like this are available as an outlet-mounted spray or diffuser, and work to spray a soothing synthetic pheromone. With this product, you can deal with the problem of urinating or improper scratching behavior. In addition, the product has also been shown to calm stressed or anxious cats.
Method 2 of 4: Feeding the Cat
Step 1. Determine the type of food to be given
Cat food is available in many varieties; Dry, semi-wet and canned foods are the types of food that are commonly used. Dry types of food can be stored easily and efficiently, but cats usually prefer the taste of semi-wet and canned food. Both types of food increase water intake in cats compared to dry food. In general, the type of food given ultimately depends on the taste of the cat owner.
Sometimes, cats with certain medical conditions need more of a certain type of food. Consult the condition of the satisfied with the veterinarian to get recommendations on the type of food that can be given
Step 2. Choose food with quality brands
Like other animals, cats have specific nutritional needs. These animals are "true carnivores" who need animal protein to avoid serious health problems. Ask your veterinarian for advice on high-quality food. Cheap cat food products may not contain enough nutrients to keep your pussy healthy and happy.
- Look for food products that contain a lot of animal meat, such as beef, chicken, turkey, or fish.
- Also, look for products that contain essential amino acids like taurine and arginine, as well as fatty acids like arachidonic and linoleic.
- Don't give your pussy human food, unless you've received permission or the "green light" from your veterinarian. Some types of human food can make a cat seriously ill, or even toxic (eg chocolate).
Step 3. Follow the feeding instructions provided
In general, cat feeding is based on the cat's age, weight, and activity level. The pussy usually eats quite often small portions throughout the day.
Ask your veterinarian for recommendations on food products and feeding methods if you are confused
Step 4. Do not overfeed
Follow the vet's advice carefully and make sure your cat gets a lot of movement or exercise as obesity is one of the biggest health problems faced by cats today. Cats who are obese have a greater risk of developing diabetes as adults. Excess weight can also trigger arthritis, heart problems, and other health problems in cats.
Method 3 of 4: Keeping Cats Healthy
Step 1. Comb and trim the fur as needed
You may find that you don't need to brush or brush their fur, as the cat can bathe itself. However, you will still need to brush a cat with long hair several times a week, or once a week for a cat with short hair. In this way, you can prevent hair loss and prevent the formation of a ball of hair on the body of the pussy.
For cats that tend to shed frequently (especially long-haired species), use a comb with fine metal teeth. A comb like this can go deeper into the layers and reduce hair loss
Step 2. Check the condition of the skin as you comb the fur of the pussy
Watch for lice or other parasites, as well as skin redness, bumps, or other skin problems. If you see a suspicious condition, let your vet know about it and ask for advice on what steps to take.
Step 3. Schedule an annual visit to the vet
Like your family members, cats need medical visits too. However, unlike children, cats cannot tell us when we are feeling sick. He relies on humans to be taken to the vet and receive regular medical check-ups to maintain his health. It's important that you take him to the vet at least once a year so he can get a physical exam (eg teeth, ears, eyes, heart), vaccinations and flea/worm treatment. All cat owners are advised to vaccinate against feline infectious enteritis (FIE), cat flu, and feline leukemia virus (FeLV). All of these diseases can kill the pussy if it becomes infected so it is important that you protect it. Some cat care centers may also not accept your cat without proof of the above vaccinations (or other vaccinations). Your vet can quickly suggest the vaccinations your pus needs. If you are concerned about her health or behavior, take her to the vet as soon as possible.
An older cat may need to be taken to the vet twice a year for optimal health
Step 4. Make more frequent vet visits for the kitten
Like human babies, kittens need to be taken to the vet more often than adult cats. From about 8 weeks of age, cats need 2-3 visits to the vet to get a series of vaccinations and anti-worm treatment. At a minimum, a visit to the vet includes administering a distemper or rabies vaccine. Doctors can also discuss the benefits of additional vaccinations. Ask about the risk of certain types of diseases such as feline leukemia, and make wise decisions about which vaccinations to give.
- The doctor can also check for lice or ear mites in the pus, and treat them if necessary.
- Make sure the pussy gets antiworm treatment. Most kittens have roundworms which can stunt their growth and possibly pass to humans.
Step 5. Sterilize your cat
Spaying a male or female cat provides many positive benefits, such as reducing unwanted behavior (eg wandering around and spitting urine on items). Physically, neutering also protects cats from unwanted pregnancies and diseases such as pyometra. Most importantly, neutering helps reduce the world's population of unwanted kittens!
Ask your veterinarian for advice on when to neuter your kitten. In general, veterinarians usually recommend neutering at 2-6 months of age
Step 6. Get your pussy used to brushing your teeth
Cats can develop dental problems. To brush his teeth, you will need a soft-bristled toothbrush and a special toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste! Fluoride content that is too high can trigger stomach upset in cats. With the high concentration of fluoride in human toothpaste, overdosage can actually be toxic to cats. Start by giving him a little toothpaste from the vet. After that, let him taste it himself, then rub your finger on his upper gums. Repeat this process with a toothbrush. Slide the bristles along the gum line on the upper back teeth, then tilt the brush slightly so that the bristles hit the bottom of the gum line. Clean the teeth from the back to the front in a circular motion around the gum line. The process of brushing a cat's teeth takes less than 30 seconds.
Do not immediately try to brush his entire mouth. If the pussy only lets you brush the outside of her top teeth, at least it's better than nothing. You can still handle the most important things to prevent dental disease
Step 7. Schedule a professional dental cleaning if necessary
Even if you brush their teeth well, your cat may still need a professional brushing sometimes. Toothbrushing helps reduce visible plaque and dirt buildup on tooth surfaces, but may not be able to reach any food debris left below the gum line. Professional tooth brushing gives the doctor the opportunity to thoroughly examine the condition of the mouth of the pus (the cat will be sedated first). Some signs of dental disease in cats include:
- Breath smell
- Loose teeth
- Discoloration of teeth or teeth that are coated with tartar
- Sensitivity or pain in the mouth
- Bleeding
- Drooling a lot or dropping food frequently while eating
- Decreased appetite or weight
Step 8. Make sure your pussy gets enough playtime
Cats need to interact with you every day to stay happy and physically fit. Use cat toys, chat with him, and comb his fur to spend some time with him. Small laser lights, balls, mouse-shaped toys, and fur toys are the right media to invite him to play.
Method 4 of 4: Getting a Good and Healthy Cat
Step 1. Decide whether you want to keep a kitten or an adult cat
Kittens may be tempting, but make sure that you can adjust to your pussy's energy level, and take on the appropriate responsibilities. Animal shelters have lots of adorable adult cats who may have a hard time finding foster “parents.” Adult cats are usually calmer and quieter than kittens, but may still carry behavioral problems from their previous lives. Also, adult cats may have medical conditions that you need to treat as soon as possible than kittens. On the other hand, kittens sometimes scratch hard. Therefore, determine whether you are ready with the consequences for each choice.
Step 2. Consider any medical problems the particular cat has
If you like a cat, for example, ask about her medical history to see if she needs long-term care. Think about whether you are financially able to meet his medical needs.
- Even if he looks healthy, consider the species. Indigenous cats of different species have their own genetic problems. For example, flat-faced cats such as the Manx and Scottish Fold often experience respiratory problems.
- Pure-breed cats have a higher risk of genetic medical disorders than mixed-breed cats.
Step 3. Consider the time that can be allocated to the cat
While your pussy doesn't need to be walked every day like a dog, don't be fooled into thinking that cats (and kittens) don't need a time commitment from you. Cats are still active animals that need frequent play, and are sweet friends who often demand attention. You also need to set aside time to clean the litter box and provide structured food.
The average age range for a pet cat is 13-17 so be aware that you need to make a long-term commitment to your pussy
Step 4. Determine whether you can afford to own a cat financially
The cost of buying a cat ranges from (approximately) 500 thousand rupiahs from an animal adoption center to millions of rupiah for a purebred cat. In addition, you need to spend money to buy food, liters, toys, and periodic medication. The United States Association for the Prevention of Violence Against Animals or ASPCA estimates that in the first year of keeping a cat, you will need to spend about US$1,035. These costs are likely to decrease once you purchase the essentials and the cat goes through the initial medical procedure.
Step 5. Try adopting a cat from an animal shelter
The costs that need to be spent are quite affordable when compared to the benefits you can get: complete vaccinations, health checks, and sterilization. However, keep in mind that even a cat that you can get “free” will eventually cost you money to take care of (if you are responsible).
Tips
- Milk can interfere with a cat's digestion. Therefore, water is the best liquid you can provide your cat.
- Give your cat filtered water instead of tap water if your pussy tends to be picky.
- Cats have claws they will use when they are happy, scared, angry, and the like. Therefore, be careful because the pussy can scratch you. Usually, the claws he gave were not intentional. If your pussy scratches you while playing, just say "NO" and stop playing with it. Eventually, he will learn to control his claws while playing.
- If you get bitten or scratched by the pus, clean the wound with soap and water, then apply alcohol (or other disinfectant) and cover it with a bandage. If you experience swelling or signs of infection, see a doctor immediately.
- Be aware of the types of plants you keep in your home. Some types of ornamental plants are actually very toxic to pets (eg chestnut).
- Keep the pussy in the room. Cats left to roam outdoors have a shorter lifespan than cats kept indoors due to the risk of injury, disease, dog attack, and other hazards.
- For fun, buy catnip and place it on a tile or wooden floor (don't place it on a carpet, unless you plan on cleaning the carpet afterwards with a vacuum cleaner). Cats love catnip! The pussy will roll over near it or eat it. Warning: sometimes cats become very active after exposure to catnip. This plant is not dangerous and actually gives him joy.
- Ask the vet to insert a tracking chip into the cat's body. That way, you can find and track his location easily in case he gets lost at any time.
- If you're planning on getting a cat, make sure you buy insurance for it just in case something happens. Insurance can help you save a lot of money!
- Give your pussy a chance to roam freely around the house undisturbed if he wants you to pet him. In the end, he will approach you.
- Make sure the pussy is free to roam in the house. Otherwise, he will feel constrained.
- Make sure the cat has its own area. Provide an area that will not be disturbed by others, and he can come to when he feels stressed or wants to rest.
Warning
- Don't just leave the cat if you don't want to keep it anymore. Always take animals that do not want to be kept to the nearest animal shelter. The shelter will take care of your dog or cat, and find a new place to live. Leaving an animal alone is a cruel act.
- If you play with your pussy for a long time, provide her with drinking water.
- Never use products formulated for other animals on cats.
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Don't do something he doesn't want to do, such as:
- Lift or carry him suddenly whenever you want
- Hugging her too tight
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Never cut off a cat's claws as this is like chopping off the first knuckle of a human finger. In addition to causing long-term injury, cutting the claws makes the cat vulnerable to injury (if a predator attacks it).
Alternatively, you can provide paw posts, trim the paws, and use a cat paw "hood"
