If you’re a cat lover, then you know that they can make great housemates. But, like any animal, they come with their own set of challenges. Keep reading to find out how to make co-existing with your feline friend a bit easier.
Take your cat to the vet for regular checkups.
Taking your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups will help ensure that they are healthy and that any potential problems are caught early. During a checkup, the veterinarian will examine your cat from head to toe and may also run some tests. Depending on your cat’s lifestyle, they may also recommend routine vaccinations and parasite control products. Some of the most common problems that vets see in cats include obesity, diabetes, and urinary tract infections. Obesity is a significant cat problem and can lead to several health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Diabetes is also a growing problem in cats and can lead to serious health problems if not treated.
Feed your cat the right diet
A cat’s diet is very important to keep them healthy. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require animal protein to survive. A diet that is high in carbohydrates and low in animal protein can lead to health problems for cats. You can feed your cat the right diet in a few different ways. The first way is to feed them wet food. Wet food contains more animal protein than dry food and has more moisture, which is important for cats because they need to drink lots of water to stay healthy.
Another option is to feed your cat a balanced raw diet. A raw diet consists of uncooked meat, eggs, and organs. It can be challenging to make your own raw diet at home, so premade raw diets are available for purchase. You may also want to feed your cat home-cooked meals. This can be done by cooking chicken or fish and then pureeing it into a soft consistency that cats enjoy eating. No matter what diet you choose for your cat, check with your vet to ensure it covers all of their needs.
Create a safe environment for you and your cat.
When buying or adopting a cat, take steps to ensure a safe environment for your pet. This means having a litter box, food, and water available, as well as a place for your cat to rest. Additionally, make sure that dangerous items such as poisonous cleaners are out of reach. Cats like to scratch, so provide them with a scratching post to help keep their nails trimmed. Also, make sure you prioritize your safety too. For example, you may want to invest in a HEPA air purifier if you’re sensitive to pet dander.
You’ll also want to make sure the plants in your home are safe for cats. Some plants are toxic to them, but there are plants you can get that can be safely touched or ingested. There are houseplants safe for cats you can choose from, like a ponytail palm. Even if you choose cat-safe plants, you may want to display the plants off the floor so your cat won’t destroy them. Consider adding extra shelving high enough to avoid your cat’s paws.
Understand your cat’s body language.
Most people think cats are aloof and uninterested in their human companions, but that’s not true. Cats are very social animals and use body language to communicate with their humans and other cats. By understanding your cat’s body language, you can better understand what your cat is trying to say to you. The most common way that cats communicate is through vocalizations, such as meowing, purring, and hissing. However, cats also use body language to convey their feelings and intentions. One of the most important things to look for is how your cat is holding its tail. A relaxed or happy cat will hold its tail high in the air, while an angry or scared cat will hold its tail low or between its legs.
Another thing to watch for is your cat’s ears. Ears pointing forward indicate that your cat is alert and interested in what’s happening around it, while ears that are flattened back against the head usually mean that your cat is afraid or defensive. Another sign of fear or aggression can be seen in a cat’s eyes—a fearful or angry cat will have small pupils, whereas a relaxed cat will have large pupils. If you’re unsure what your cat is trying to tell you, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and give them some space until they calm down. Learning to read your cat’s body language can create a stronger bond with your feline friend and help them feel more comfortable around you.
Living with cats is a rewarding experience that comes with a unique set of challenges. By incorporating some of these tips, you’ll ensure you and your furry friend are safe and happy.
