| |
 Cat Care Tip - Six Important Cat Items Every Owner Should Have
Some of the items a cat owners needs are readily apparent: cat food, a litter box, and a cat, for starters! Others only become apparent as necessities after trial and error. As a new cat owner, learn from the experience of others. Read on to discover details about the most common cat items, and learn about others that will make your life as a new cat owner a lot easier. Having all the right items in place before bringing your cat home will help her feel welcomed and comfortable from the minute she sets paw in the door.
1. Food-related items
First item of business is a place to put the food. Metal or ceramic containers for food and water are best. Some cats may develop a chin rash related to a plastic food dish. A good option for busy cat owners would be automatic food and water servers, which
keep your cats meals fresh even when youre out and about.
For food itself, dont buy too much before you bring your cat home. Keep your cats nutritional needs in mind, as kittens need extra nutrients for growth and overweight cats may need a restricted diet. With this in mind, purchase several brands and flavors of food in both canned and dry varieties for your cat to try. Once you figure out your cats favorites, keep those in stock.
2. Litter box
The use of a litter box is one of the many benefits of being a cat owner. Most popular nowadays is the clumping clay type of litter, because it clumps around urine, making the litter box easy to clean. However, clumping clay can be harmful if ingested, so it should not be used with kittens and may not always be appropriate for adult cats. Plant-based litter is an alternative option.
As for the litter box itself, many shapes and sizes are available. Start simply with a plastic box that fits your catadult cats need a sizeable one with high sides, since they tend to throw the litter around a bit. Kittens, on the other hand, need one that is low enough that they can climb in.
3. Grooming tools
Properly groomed cats are healthier and happier. Grooming can also be an opportunity for you and your cat to bond. Grooming a cats hair helps prevent hairballs and keeps your house cleaner, which any allergic visitors would greatly appreciate. To groom hair, purchase a rubber-backed pin brush and a fine-tooth comb.
Clipping your cats nails also helps prevent overgrown toenails and excessive scratching. For your cats comfort and ease of use, purchase a nail clipper specifically designed for cats.
4. Cat toys
Cats and cat owners love to play. One of the simplest and favorite cat toys is the dangling lure variety. Before purchasing, be certain that all parts are sturdily connected and wont be a choking hazard for your cat.
Other than the dangling lure, more expensive and creative toys are constantly being invented. Your only limits are space and budget!
5. Cat carrier
Although a cardboard carrier from the pet store or shelter offers a short-term solution, you will be carrying your cat for many years to come. Even if your cat will live indoors, you will still need to take him out occasionally for vet appointments or possibly for boarding if you take a long trip. For long-term use, purchase a sturdy plastic carrier with a door that latches. Put a favorite blanket in the carrier and your cat will feel comfortable and secure in his travels.
6. Scratching post
This is an item that new cat owners may not think of, but veteran cat lovers swear by! Cats will scratchits in their nature. Providing your cat with a scratching post can help save your furniture and drapes and keep your cat happy. Like toys, scratching posts are available in a wide variety of shapes, styles, and prices. Many purchased at a store also have catnip scent to attract your cats attention. Choose a scratching post based on your home, your cats temperament, and your aesthetic preferences.
Now that you have armed yourself with the six basic cat items, you can bring your cat into a comfortable and welcoming home!
Tick Tock How to Treat for Ticks around the Clock
Have you ever heard the saying, Blood tells the tale? In the case of ticks, that would definitely be an accurate statement. On your cat, ticks can be fairly easy to spot, especially if your cat has a short fur coat. If the ticks have just newly...
Five Most Common Cat Ailments to Watch For
As a cat owner, your first responsibility is to keep your pet healthy. However, even with balanced nutrition and a good amount of love and attention, cats can still get sick. Learn about the most common ailments that affect cats so you can try to...
Major Milestones in Kitten Development
In the first year of life, kittens develop at a rapid rate, both physically and socially. Learn about the major milestones in their development, and how you can help the process along. First six weeks For the first week of life, kittens...
Five Most Toxic Houseplants for Cats and What to Do
When your Cat Eats One There are many common household plants, both indoor and outdoor, that are poisonous to cats. Several of these plants can cause your beloved cat to become quite ill, including vomiting, diarrhea, and convulsions. In some...
Claw Care for Kitties
Do the legs of your furniture bear the claw marks of your cat? Is scratching the furniture abnormal? If so, you may want to consider trimming your cats claws. When cats scratch, it is a normal part of behavior that is hard-wired into their genes. ...
|
|
|
|
|
