Author: Ken Charnely
Do you like to learn about new and interesting things? If so, this article will be right up your alley! A healthy animal makes for a happy pet. If you are a cat owner and you want to make your pet happy, you need to make sure that your cat is groomed properly, fed on time and is given enough love and attention.
Here are some tips on how you can have a healthy and happy cat:
1. Take care of your cat's health.
As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to make sure that your cat is healthy and free from diseases that may even be transmitted to humans.
Visit the veterinarian if you notice that your cat has become lethargic or less active than usual.
If you see them 'shedding' excessively or has something unusual on their coat, immediately consult a professional.
Your cat might have a skin disease, or this could be a symptom of a sickness that you do not know about.
2. Groom your cat properly.
Cats are in the habit of grooming themselves. You will often see them using their tongue to clean their coat.
In spite of this, you should still do your part in grooming your cat if you want to keep them really clean.
Brush your cat's fur regularly. There are several short-haired cats that need minimal brushing. For this, you can use a comb with soft bristles.
There are also cat breeds which have long, silky furs and this variety needs a much longer grooming time.
Use a wide-toothed comb initially then brush up with a fine toothed one afterwards. You can also use talcum powder in order to separate the hair strands.
Make sure that you brush with gentle strokes so that their skin will not be hurt or scratched.
Cats are also not that fond of taking a bath. But there are times when your cat would need bathing.
This is when they have accumulated a lot of dirt on the skin and coat. Bathing will help eliminate ticks and lice.
Also, there might be substances that could cling on the fur which can be poisonous and it is important for them to bathe.
When bathing your pet, use a shampoo that is specially made for cats. Prepare the following before bathing:
-a small tub or sink
-slip-proof mat
-water spray attachment
-clean, dry towels
-shampoo
-comb
Adjust the water temperature, then place your cat in the small tub or sink before filling it up with water. It is better to attach a sprayer in the faucet rather than pouring water directly onto its body. Apply a liberal amount of shampoo on the cat's body, and try to avoid the face, especially the eyes and ears.
After rinsing, towel them dry and comb the coat. Bathing time should build trust and create some quality time between you and your pet cat.
This should prevent your cat from making much of a fuss the next time it needs a bath.
Another part of grooming is keeping the eyes, teeth and ears clean. Also remember to keep the paws clean and the nails trimmed.
Go to a pet store and you are sure to find products specially made to clean these parts. You can also look for a nail trimmer specifically designed to use on your pet cat.
Ask a professional groomer or a veterinarian so that you can learn how to properly clean your cat's eyes, ears, teeth and nails.
3. Feed them on time.
Another aspect of keeping your cat happy and healthy is by feeding them well and on time.
Your feline friends can learn how to "stick" to a schedule with your guidance and training.
Make time in your busy day to feed them. You can learn which variety of cat food they prefer by serving different brands and variants.
Along with cat food, you should give them plenty of clean water to drink.
If you have a lot of pet cats, give them individual feeding plates.
If there is just one dish, other cats might not be fed well because dominant felines will take the most part of the food that you serve.
4. Shower them with love and attention.
By giving your cats your undivided attention while grooming and feeding them, you are already showering them with love and attention. In addition to this, make their play time a lot more fun by appreciating the things that they do.By following these tips, you are sure to have a healthy cat and be a contented owner. When we learn, we continue on a path of growth. Therefore, learning about this subject has already helped you more than you know.
About The Author
Ken Charnely is webmaster at two of Internet's popular article directories. For more articles on this topic and for free content for your website visit http://www.articleteller.com/ and http://www.contentwow.com/.
Perfect Cat Box For Your Cat
Author: Ken Charnely
By the end of this article, you should have gained enough new knowledge on this subject to feel like a pro. Household pet cats definitely need litter boxes in which they do their business. Just like people, these feline friends can get finicky over this matter, so it is very important that they make sure the litter box they have for their pet cat suits the cats preferences; after all, it is the cat that is going to use it. But the owner should also consider his own convenience regarding this matter; he should consider his budget for the cat box as well as the ease of cleaning it.
Choosing the perfect cat box can be beneficial to both your cats health as well as the owners. The important thing is that the cat box must be appealing to the cat and comfortable for use. Rest assured, the cat's satisfaction also guarantees success.
In finding the perfect cat box, here are some things that must be considered:
Size and Depth:
This maybe determined by the number of cats there are in the home. However, it is ideal if the number of cats in the home determines the number of cat boxes available rather than the size. For kittens, shallow cat boxes, no more than three inches deep are advisable. For adult cats on the other hand, those about six inches high are desirable. The prescribed area of the litter box is at least 24 inches in length or width.
Material of the Box:
Heavy and durable plastic is the most advisable material for a cat box and is also the most inexpensive variety in stores. Plus with their simplicity in style, cleaning can prove to be a breeze.
Ease of Cleaning:
Basic flat boxes are easy to clean because of their simple design. There is no need to remove any lids or covers to scoop or clean. However, some cats frequently kick litter out of the box so if you choose this option, you had better have a whisk broom and a dust pan always at hand.
Covered boxes usually minimize the trouble of having cat litter and waste scattered outside the box since they have hoods which keep all the litter inside. Covered boxes also tend to become stinky due to poor ventilation.
There are also those self-cleaning cat boxes available in the market. The self-cleaning feature of these boxes keep the cat box neat and tidy, but they also require some cleaning from the owner. Every few days the receptacle must be emptied of urine and feces and sometimes the rake does not get every bit of cat waste so there may be an occasional need for scooping them out.
Style and Features:
There is a wide variety of designs, styles and features for cat litter boxes. The owner may have to choose which one will be most convenient for him and his cat.. Below are listed some basic designs for cat litter boxes:
-Basic flat box. This is the simple rectangular pan which is commonly made of plastic. They come in different depths, sizes and colors. This design is preferred by most cats. An innovation to this design whose is to hold the cat box liners in place by securing them under the rim.
-Covered cat boxes or hooded litter boxes. These cat litter boxes look like the traditional open-type rectangular pans except for the addition of the hood which partly covers the box. An opening is situated at one end of the box which serves as the entrance and exit way for the cat. The hood is also positioned high enough so that the cat can stand and do its job with ease and comfort. While they provide "privacy" for the pet, they tend to get very smelly because of poor ventilation inside. Manufacturers of this type of cat boxes have offered a solution to this problem. Some variants of the hooded type have vents on top plus a filter which aids in trapping odors. For this type of cat box, it is recommended that you choose one that is large enough to accommodate the pet, has a hood which can be easily maneuvered for easy cleaning, and large vents.
-Designer boxes. Also known as "hidden boxes", this type of litter box disguises itself as a furniture piece or even a plant. A designer litter box not only serves to be the cat's convenient toilet but it can also function as an accent for the room in which it is located. Although the containers are commonly not large enough, there are designs which are big and more open. These are the ones which are more ideal for use. Try to find one which provides good ventilation.
-Sifting Boxes. A few other variants of this type are available in the market but the basic model consists of two rectangular pans and a tray which acts as a sifter.
-Self-cleaning box. These electrical-powered high-end litter boxes work with a sensor which activates the self-cleaning machinery a few minutes after the cat has left the box. The cleaning machinery contains a rake which works its way along the litter to scoop out cat pee and poop into a waste receptacle. There is still the need to occasionally clean the unit, especially the cleaning mechanism itself.
Cost:
The basic flat box is the most affordable of all the designs mentioned. The self-cleaning box is obviously the most expensive and their guarantee commonly lasts for only one year. This can be a risk which the owner must consider before actually buying a unit.
Appealing to the Cat:
Cats generally do fine with the open box type. Covered boxes offer the "privacy" which some cats like but some cats feel trapped inside them. Owners of designer boxes may find it attractive to put them in places where they will be most appreciated. However, they must be sensitive to the fact that cats most often opt to do their business in a place which is quiet and safe. As for the automated self-cleaning cat litter boxes, some finicky cats may find them comfy since they are clean and spacious. However, they may get psyched out by the mechanical action if they chance to see it actually happen. They might be afraid of using the unit again.
Finding the perfect cat litter box may be a hard task and may require experimentation on the part of the owner. If the owner tries out a box which his pet really does not like, he should not insist on the cat using it. Though this experimentation may become tedious, it can be necessary to find the perfect box for your cat. Providing the cat its preferred litter box can bring good health and satisfaction to both owner and pet, and the carpet as well! We hope that you finished reading this article having learned at least a little bit of new information. If so, then we have done our job.
About The Author
Ken Charnely is webmaster at two of Internet's popular article directories. For more articles on this topic and for free content for your website visit http://www.articleteller.com/ and http://www.contentwow.com/.
By the end of this article, you should have gained enough new knowledge on this subject to feel like a pro. Household pet cats definitely need litter boxes in which they do their business. Just like people, these feline friends can get finicky over this matter, so it is very important that they make sure the litter box they have for their pet cat suits the cats preferences; after all, it is the cat that is going to use it. But the owner should also consider his own convenience regarding this matter; he should consider his budget for the cat box as well as the ease of cleaning it.
Choosing the perfect cat box can be beneficial to both your cats health as well as the owners. The important thing is that the cat box must be appealing to the cat and comfortable for use. Rest assured, the cat's satisfaction also guarantees success.
In finding the perfect cat box, here are some things that must be considered:
Size and Depth:
This maybe determined by the number of cats there are in the home. However, it is ideal if the number of cats in the home determines the number of cat boxes available rather than the size. For kittens, shallow cat boxes, no more than three inches deep are advisable. For adult cats on the other hand, those about six inches high are desirable. The prescribed area of the litter box is at least 24 inches in length or width.
Material of the Box:
Heavy and durable plastic is the most advisable material for a cat box and is also the most inexpensive variety in stores. Plus with their simplicity in style, cleaning can prove to be a breeze.
Ease of Cleaning:
Basic flat boxes are easy to clean because of their simple design. There is no need to remove any lids or covers to scoop or clean. However, some cats frequently kick litter out of the box so if you choose this option, you had better have a whisk broom and a dust pan always at hand.
Covered boxes usually minimize the trouble of having cat litter and waste scattered outside the box since they have hoods which keep all the litter inside. Covered boxes also tend to become stinky due to poor ventilation.
There are also those self-cleaning cat boxes available in the market. The self-cleaning feature of these boxes keep the cat box neat and tidy, but they also require some cleaning from the owner. Every few days the receptacle must be emptied of urine and feces and sometimes the rake does not get every bit of cat waste so there may be an occasional need for scooping them out.
Style and Features:
There is a wide variety of designs, styles and features for cat litter boxes. The owner may have to choose which one will be most convenient for him and his cat.. Below are listed some basic designs for cat litter boxes:
-Basic flat box. This is the simple rectangular pan which is commonly made of plastic. They come in different depths, sizes and colors. This design is preferred by most cats. An innovation to this design whose is to hold the cat box liners in place by securing them under the rim.
-Covered cat boxes or hooded litter boxes. These cat litter boxes look like the traditional open-type rectangular pans except for the addition of the hood which partly covers the box. An opening is situated at one end of the box which serves as the entrance and exit way for the cat. The hood is also positioned high enough so that the cat can stand and do its job with ease and comfort. While they provide "privacy" for the pet, they tend to get very smelly because of poor ventilation inside. Manufacturers of this type of cat boxes have offered a solution to this problem. Some variants of the hooded type have vents on top plus a filter which aids in trapping odors. For this type of cat box, it is recommended that you choose one that is large enough to accommodate the pet, has a hood which can be easily maneuvered for easy cleaning, and large vents.
-Designer boxes. Also known as "hidden boxes", this type of litter box disguises itself as a furniture piece or even a plant. A designer litter box not only serves to be the cat's convenient toilet but it can also function as an accent for the room in which it is located. Although the containers are commonly not large enough, there are designs which are big and more open. These are the ones which are more ideal for use. Try to find one which provides good ventilation.
-Sifting Boxes. A few other variants of this type are available in the market but the basic model consists of two rectangular pans and a tray which acts as a sifter.
-Self-cleaning box. These electrical-powered high-end litter boxes work with a sensor which activates the self-cleaning machinery a few minutes after the cat has left the box. The cleaning machinery contains a rake which works its way along the litter to scoop out cat pee and poop into a waste receptacle. There is still the need to occasionally clean the unit, especially the cleaning mechanism itself.
Cost:
The basic flat box is the most affordable of all the designs mentioned. The self-cleaning box is obviously the most expensive and their guarantee commonly lasts for only one year. This can be a risk which the owner must consider before actually buying a unit.
Appealing to the Cat:
Cats generally do fine with the open box type. Covered boxes offer the "privacy" which some cats like but some cats feel trapped inside them. Owners of designer boxes may find it attractive to put them in places where they will be most appreciated. However, they must be sensitive to the fact that cats most often opt to do their business in a place which is quiet and safe. As for the automated self-cleaning cat litter boxes, some finicky cats may find them comfy since they are clean and spacious. However, they may get psyched out by the mechanical action if they chance to see it actually happen. They might be afraid of using the unit again.
Finding the perfect cat litter box may be a hard task and may require experimentation on the part of the owner. If the owner tries out a box which his pet really does not like, he should not insist on the cat using it. Though this experimentation may become tedious, it can be necessary to find the perfect box for your cat. Providing the cat its preferred litter box can bring good health and satisfaction to both owner and pet, and the carpet as well! We hope that you finished reading this article having learned at least a little bit of new information. If so, then we have done our job.
About The Author
Ken Charnely is webmaster at two of Internet's popular article directories. For more articles on this topic and for free content for your website visit http://www.articleteller.com/ and http://www.contentwow.com/.
Tips On How To Groom Your Cat
Author: Ken Charnely
Before we begin to give you additional information on this topic, take a moment to think about what you already know.
Cats are basically very tidy creatures. They are in the habit of grooming themselves by licking every part of their body clean with their tongue.
This habit of tongue-bathing has several benefits to your pet cat:
- promotes better circulation of the blood
- gets rid of dead skin cells
- removes excess/dead hair on their coat
- tones their muscles
- keeps the fur soft and clean
Although your feline friends groom on their own, you should still do your part in keeping your cat clean and well-groomed.
Here are several ways to keep your cat well-groomed:
1. Brushing
Depending on the breed, your cat can either have long or short hair. Make sure that you brush your cat’s coat well enough to promote proper grooming.
-For cats with short hair, use a brush with soft bristles so that the skin will not be scratched or hurt in the grooming process.
Use soft, gentle strokes while brushing. This should make them purr in pleasure and you will have an easier job of grooming your pet cat.
After brushing the coat with a comb, you can finish the job by wiping the fur with a dry, soft and clean piece of cloth. This should maintain the shine on your cat’s coat.
-As compared to cats with shorter hair, long-haired cats would require more brushing time.
For this, use a comb with wide-teeth that is specially designed for cats. This should initially remove the knots and tangles on their fur.
Afterwards, you can use a fine-toothed comb to work the smaller knots on the fur and eliminate the more stubborn knots.
Do not forget to brush the hair around the face with a smaller comb or a toothbrush.
Avoid the eye and whisker area when brushing.
Brushing your cats fur on a regular basis will help keep their coat shiny and healthy, and will also give the owner and the pet some bonding time together.
2. Bathing
Cats do not often require bathing because they basically take good care of themselves when it comes to grooming.
However, there are some cases wherein you need to give them a bath no matter how you – and your pet – dread the chore.
You need to bath your cat if the coat has excessive dirt.
Sometimes, a substance that can possibly poison them sticks on the fur and it is vital to give them a bath in this case.
Another instance where you need to bath your cat is in case of fleas, ticks and lice clinging to their skin.
3. Cleaning the eyes and ears.
For the eyes and ears which are the most sensitive areas in your cat’s body, there are solutions that you may use.
Choose one which is specifically designed to prevent cats with light-colored eyes to develop stains.
For the ears, cats collect a considerable amount or wax so you have to take care of it when grooming.
Removing this would maintain your cat’s health and help prevent infections.
There are also cat wipes that you can use for the ears, eyes and teeth.
4. Keeping the paws clean.
Cats are in the habit of scratching surfaces so it is better to keep them away from the furniture items in the house. It would also help if you keep those paws clean and trim their nails.
You can go to a pet store and buy a nail trimmer specially designed for cats.
Ask your veterinarian for the proper way to trim your cats nails so as not to hurt them in the process.
If you find that your cat exhibits a not-so-healthy clawing habit, you may go for the option of declawing your cat.
This is a surgical procedure where the nails are permanently removed so that it will not grow back.
However, you should still ask your vets advice if you want to go for declawing because with this, cats will lose a natural defense mechanism.
A better and kinder option is to regularly trim the cat’s nails, have them use a wooden post for scratching, or crate-training to prevent them from clawing at your most-treasured possessions.
By following these tips and making time in your busy schedule to groom your cat, you would have a healthy and happy cat and be a happy owner as well.
About The Author
Ken Charnely is webmaster at two of Internet's popular article directories. For more articles on this topic and for free content for your website visit http://www.articleteller.com/ and http://www.contentwow.com/.
Before we begin to give you additional information on this topic, take a moment to think about what you already know.
Cats are basically very tidy creatures. They are in the habit of grooming themselves by licking every part of their body clean with their tongue.
This habit of tongue-bathing has several benefits to your pet cat:
- promotes better circulation of the blood
- gets rid of dead skin cells
- removes excess/dead hair on their coat
- tones their muscles
- keeps the fur soft and clean
Although your feline friends groom on their own, you should still do your part in keeping your cat clean and well-groomed.
Here are several ways to keep your cat well-groomed:
1. Brushing
Depending on the breed, your cat can either have long or short hair. Make sure that you brush your cat’s coat well enough to promote proper grooming.
-For cats with short hair, use a brush with soft bristles so that the skin will not be scratched or hurt in the grooming process.
Use soft, gentle strokes while brushing. This should make them purr in pleasure and you will have an easier job of grooming your pet cat.
After brushing the coat with a comb, you can finish the job by wiping the fur with a dry, soft and clean piece of cloth. This should maintain the shine on your cat’s coat.
-As compared to cats with shorter hair, long-haired cats would require more brushing time.
For this, use a comb with wide-teeth that is specially designed for cats. This should initially remove the knots and tangles on their fur.
Afterwards, you can use a fine-toothed comb to work the smaller knots on the fur and eliminate the more stubborn knots.
Do not forget to brush the hair around the face with a smaller comb or a toothbrush.
Avoid the eye and whisker area when brushing.
Brushing your cats fur on a regular basis will help keep their coat shiny and healthy, and will also give the owner and the pet some bonding time together.
2. Bathing
Cats do not often require bathing because they basically take good care of themselves when it comes to grooming.
However, there are some cases wherein you need to give them a bath no matter how you – and your pet – dread the chore.
You need to bath your cat if the coat has excessive dirt.
Sometimes, a substance that can possibly poison them sticks on the fur and it is vital to give them a bath in this case.
Another instance where you need to bath your cat is in case of fleas, ticks and lice clinging to their skin.
3. Cleaning the eyes and ears.
For the eyes and ears which are the most sensitive areas in your cat’s body, there are solutions that you may use.
Choose one which is specifically designed to prevent cats with light-colored eyes to develop stains.
For the ears, cats collect a considerable amount or wax so you have to take care of it when grooming.
Removing this would maintain your cat’s health and help prevent infections.
There are also cat wipes that you can use for the ears, eyes and teeth.
4. Keeping the paws clean.
Cats are in the habit of scratching surfaces so it is better to keep them away from the furniture items in the house. It would also help if you keep those paws clean and trim their nails.
You can go to a pet store and buy a nail trimmer specially designed for cats.
Ask your veterinarian for the proper way to trim your cats nails so as not to hurt them in the process.
If you find that your cat exhibits a not-so-healthy clawing habit, you may go for the option of declawing your cat.
This is a surgical procedure where the nails are permanently removed so that it will not grow back.
However, you should still ask your vets advice if you want to go for declawing because with this, cats will lose a natural defense mechanism.
A better and kinder option is to regularly trim the cat’s nails, have them use a wooden post for scratching, or crate-training to prevent them from clawing at your most-treasured possessions.
By following these tips and making time in your busy schedule to groom your cat, you would have a healthy and happy cat and be a happy owner as well.
About The Author
Ken Charnely is webmaster at two of Internet's popular article directories. For more articles on this topic and for free content for your website visit http://www.articleteller.com/ and http://www.contentwow.com/.
Is Your Cat Ready for Toilet Training? Here's 5 Ways You Can Tell
Author: Rebecca Rescate
At the end of a long day, who wants to sift through a messy litter box? Certainly not me. Up until now, the litter-box has been a necessary evil, a small price to pay for our beloved companions. But not anymore. In fact, there's an underground alternative designed for those of us who are ready to kick the litter habit: toilet training your cat.
Sounds complicated, right? Not at all. Although far from mainstream, cat toilet training is gaining momentum and cat owners across the country are beginning to embrace the trend. But before you toss that box in the trash, there's a few ways to tell if your cat is ready to take the leap into a litter-free lifestyle. Think Fluffy has what it takes? Read on.
1. Your cat is already litter-box trained.
OK, I know what you're thinking: "Of course my cat knows how to use the litter-box" But the simple fact is, cats that already know how to use the litter-box can be reconditioned to use the toilet instead. That's because cat toilet training utilizes your cat's natural instincts to bury their waste to hide their scent from predators. During the training process your cat will learn to put its waste in water instead of in litter. Once your cat makes this transition toilet training becomes a breeze and - voila! Your cat is successfully potty trained!
2. Your cat is eager to please you.
Does your cat love making you happy? Whether she leaves the occasional "gift" on your doorstep or offers a warm nuzzle while you're reading, cats who are eager to please are the purr-fect candidates for toilet training. After she learns that using the toilet pleases you, she'll be happy to oblige!
3. You have trained your cat to do something in the past.
Does your cat come when you call them? Believe it or not, simple actions like responding to a voice command can help lay the groundwork for the toilet training process. After all, if your kitty already knows how to "follow the leader", toilet training will be a breeze.
4. Your cat is healthy.
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but healthy cats have a much easier time jumping up onto their new throne. Illnesses like arthritis or urinary tract infections can affect their ability to learn how to use the toilet, so sick kitties should stick to the box.
5. You know your cat.
Can you tell when your feline friend is having a rough day? If you're like many pet owners, you're probably very in tune with your cat's feelings. This unique bond works as a positive force during the toilet training process. How? Cats will use body language to tell you if they are comfortable with a particular training step. When you pick up on these signals, both of you can work together to achieve a relaxed training pace. You'll both feel satisfied when you work as a team!
Want to read more? Check out www.citikitty.com to read how to successfully toilet train your cat with the CitiKitty Toilet Training Kit.
About The Author
Rebecca Rescate is the creator of the CitiKitty Cat Toilet Training Kit. She has helped thousands of cat owners pursue their dream of a litter-free life with their beloved feline. Visit her site to find out more about CitiKitty - www.citikitty.com.
At the end of a long day, who wants to sift through a messy litter box? Certainly not me. Up until now, the litter-box has been a necessary evil, a small price to pay for our beloved companions. But not anymore. In fact, there's an underground alternative designed for those of us who are ready to kick the litter habit: toilet training your cat.
Sounds complicated, right? Not at all. Although far from mainstream, cat toilet training is gaining momentum and cat owners across the country are beginning to embrace the trend. But before you toss that box in the trash, there's a few ways to tell if your cat is ready to take the leap into a litter-free lifestyle. Think Fluffy has what it takes? Read on.
1. Your cat is already litter-box trained.
OK, I know what you're thinking: "Of course my cat knows how to use the litter-box" But the simple fact is, cats that already know how to use the litter-box can be reconditioned to use the toilet instead. That's because cat toilet training utilizes your cat's natural instincts to bury their waste to hide their scent from predators. During the training process your cat will learn to put its waste in water instead of in litter. Once your cat makes this transition toilet training becomes a breeze and - voila! Your cat is successfully potty trained!
2. Your cat is eager to please you.
Does your cat love making you happy? Whether she leaves the occasional "gift" on your doorstep or offers a warm nuzzle while you're reading, cats who are eager to please are the purr-fect candidates for toilet training. After she learns that using the toilet pleases you, she'll be happy to oblige!
3. You have trained your cat to do something in the past.
Does your cat come when you call them? Believe it or not, simple actions like responding to a voice command can help lay the groundwork for the toilet training process. After all, if your kitty already knows how to "follow the leader", toilet training will be a breeze.
4. Your cat is healthy.
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but healthy cats have a much easier time jumping up onto their new throne. Illnesses like arthritis or urinary tract infections can affect their ability to learn how to use the toilet, so sick kitties should stick to the box.
5. You know your cat.
Can you tell when your feline friend is having a rough day? If you're like many pet owners, you're probably very in tune with your cat's feelings. This unique bond works as a positive force during the toilet training process. How? Cats will use body language to tell you if they are comfortable with a particular training step. When you pick up on these signals, both of you can work together to achieve a relaxed training pace. You'll both feel satisfied when you work as a team!
Want to read more? Check out www.citikitty.com to read how to successfully toilet train your cat with the CitiKitty Toilet Training Kit.
About The Author
Rebecca Rescate is the creator of the CitiKitty Cat Toilet Training Kit. She has helped thousands of cat owners pursue their dream of a litter-free life with their beloved feline. Visit her site to find out more about CitiKitty - www.citikitty.com.
Your New Cat: Why Are the First 24 Hours So Important? Part 2
Author: John Young
The family brought Tiger home, but hadn’t prepared their house for him. When he saw their dog, he bolted, found a dark place and hid.
His new owner searched the house but couldn’t find him. That night he came out of his hiding place and found an open window with a torn screen....
His would-be owner knew there were predators in the area. She called Animal Control and posted signs around the neighborhood, but she knew there wasn't much chance.
She was right.
PREPARATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
This situation could have been avoided, and Tiger could have been integrated quickly and easily into his new home if the people who adopted him had made some preparations and taken precautions.
What are some of these preparations? What should you do before you bring a new cat home?
• Prepare the house to receive your new cat.
• Make sure your new cat’s medical needs are completely taken care of.
• Make sure your other cats are adequately protected from disease.
• Make sure you have on hand the things your cat will need.
• Know how to introduce your new cat to your live-in companions, children and other pets.
And perhaps most importantly:
• Prepare yourself beforehand for a good relationship with your new cat.
People who have never owned cats before don’t really realize what a cat is: A highly intelligent, independent animal which needs love and affection daily – but is not a dog.
BONDING WITH YOU
Cats will bond with people, just as dogs do, but they don’t always bond with the person who has adopted them. They will choose whom they like, much to the consternation of the person who “picked them up” hoping to have acquired a new friend.
This is one very good reason why the first 24 hours is so important. It is during that period that your cat will decide whom she wants to bond with.
PREPARE YOUR HOME
Adequate preparation of the home is vitally important. If your new cat panics when she is first introduced and finds a way to exit your house, she will do so. Remember, she does not know where she is and has no motivation to return.
MEDICAL CONSEQUENCES
In addition, there may be serious medical consequences to adopting a stray, both to your new kitty and to your existing cats. Inadequate medical examination and vaccination can be tragic for the new addition to your family...and have serious consequences to your existing cats.
Unless you know what you are doing, your attempt to bring home a new kitty could result in tragedy.
EVERY CAT IS DIFFERENT
The bottom line is that no matter how many cats you have adopted, you still may not know what you are doing with THIS one.
In Part 3 we’ll discuss five things you need to consider before you adopt a new cat.
Copyright 2006 John Young
About The Author
John Young is a writer and cat lover who has owned one cat or another ever since he was four (or, maybe they owned him). His book "Your New Cat's First 24 Hours", http://www.yourcatsecrets.com, is written for new and veteran cat owners who want to smoothly introduce a new cat to their household and care for her thereafter.
The family brought Tiger home, but hadn’t prepared their house for him. When he saw their dog, he bolted, found a dark place and hid.
His new owner searched the house but couldn’t find him. That night he came out of his hiding place and found an open window with a torn screen....
His would-be owner knew there were predators in the area. She called Animal Control and posted signs around the neighborhood, but she knew there wasn't much chance.
She was right.
PREPARATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
This situation could have been avoided, and Tiger could have been integrated quickly and easily into his new home if the people who adopted him had made some preparations and taken precautions.
What are some of these preparations? What should you do before you bring a new cat home?
• Prepare the house to receive your new cat.
• Make sure your new cat’s medical needs are completely taken care of.
• Make sure your other cats are adequately protected from disease.
• Make sure you have on hand the things your cat will need.
• Know how to introduce your new cat to your live-in companions, children and other pets.
And perhaps most importantly:
• Prepare yourself beforehand for a good relationship with your new cat.
People who have never owned cats before don’t really realize what a cat is: A highly intelligent, independent animal which needs love and affection daily – but is not a dog.
BONDING WITH YOU
Cats will bond with people, just as dogs do, but they don’t always bond with the person who has adopted them. They will choose whom they like, much to the consternation of the person who “picked them up” hoping to have acquired a new friend.
This is one very good reason why the first 24 hours is so important. It is during that period that your cat will decide whom she wants to bond with.
PREPARE YOUR HOME
Adequate preparation of the home is vitally important. If your new cat panics when she is first introduced and finds a way to exit your house, she will do so. Remember, she does not know where she is and has no motivation to return.
MEDICAL CONSEQUENCES
In addition, there may be serious medical consequences to adopting a stray, both to your new kitty and to your existing cats. Inadequate medical examination and vaccination can be tragic for the new addition to your family...and have serious consequences to your existing cats.
Unless you know what you are doing, your attempt to bring home a new kitty could result in tragedy.
EVERY CAT IS DIFFERENT
The bottom line is that no matter how many cats you have adopted, you still may not know what you are doing with THIS one.
In Part 3 we’ll discuss five things you need to consider before you adopt a new cat.
Copyright 2006 John Young
About The Author
John Young is a writer and cat lover who has owned one cat or another ever since he was four (or, maybe they owned him). His book "Your New Cat's First 24 Hours", http://www.yourcatsecrets.com, is written for new and veteran cat owners who want to smoothly introduce a new cat to their household and care for her thereafter.