Caring for Your Cat

Cats are endearing animals. If you are planning to adopt a cat you should know the basics about their care.

As soon as you bring your new feline friend into the house, you should confine her to a single room for the time being with food, water, litter box and a bed.

Litter Training

If she was raised indoors, she probably already knows how to use a litter box. Most likely she learned from her mother. If not, she will be looking for someplace that is similar to dirt that she can scratch in so training is usually simple.

Teaching your cat to use the box can be done by carrying her to the box when nature calls (when you notice scratching at the floor or squatting). When she does it, praise and reward your cat so she knows that is the right way to do it.

Be sure to use a box large enough for your cat and always keep it clean. Empty it frequently and clean the box itself before it gets smelly.

Scratching

It is natural for cats to groom their claws by scratching. To save your furniture, provide your cat with a scratching post which should be three feet tall and located near their bed. It is a good idea to trim their nails as well. If you have a kitten, be sure to handle her feet gently and frequently to make trimming easier for both of you.

Discipline

Never scold or hit your cat as they are very sensitive creatures. You can get their attention with much more subtle methods. If they scratch the sofa or jump on the kitchen counter you can use a squirt bottle filed with water to discourage such behavior.

You need to decide where the cat is allowed in the home and enforce it gently but consistently. And consider if your cat will be allowed outdoors. Your cat will be safer and healthier as an indoor pet and birds and other small animals will benefit as well.

Feeding

Other Pets

If you have other pets in the house, you should allow some time for the two animals to become acquainted. If you have a dog, keep it on a leash  at first. If you have another cat, be prepared to break up fights.

Health Care

Inspect your cat frequently for an abnormalities and take note of any odd behavior. Take her to the vet for regular checkups and vaccinations

Owning, or being owned by a cat is a rewarding experience that comes with responsibilities. You need to spend time and effort when you choose to bring a pet into your life.