Pet Cats can be Just Like People - Learn How to Care For Them Properly
Animals have feelings too! Sometimes when we look at animals we forget that in many ways our pet animals are just like humans. They have emotions, they attach themselves to and love their owners, they communicate with us in ways they know how, they get sick and come down with similar illnesses just as we do - so how can you say "he's just a cat" because they're so much more than that!
Cats have specific needs just like people and for that reason we need to learn how to care for our felines properly and to an extent adapt to their individual requirements. Remember that once you adopt a pet animal and bring them into your home they become part of your family too, so you need to care for them as well as you would any family member.
Cats make great companions and are very lovable and affectionate on their own terms. I have many cats and have always had cats around since I was young. Below are some tips and tricks I have come across over the years that I wanted to share. Some of these I have tried myself and some I just found clever or inventive.
To make it easier to clean your cat's litter tray and litter scoop you can try this trick. After you have thoroughly cleaned the tray and scoop, spray them lightly with cooking spray. Let them air dry for a few minutes and then you can fill the tray with litter. This is a simple solution which makes it easier to clean up after your feline companion.
- If you have a cat that is not eating or being finicky, try changing their food bowl. If you usually feed your cat in a bowl, try using a plate. If a cat brushes her whiskers against anything she will usually back away. This can stop her from wanting to eat out of a bowl. If the problem persists you should take her to your vet to make sure there is nothing medically wrong.
- If your cat seems unwilling to drink you can get a large bowl and drop some marbles or aquarium rocks in the bottom. You then fill it with fresh water. You can also purchase a pet fountain, which comes in handy, especially if you are out a lot. Just remember, cats don't like stagnant water and need fresh water daily to keep them healthy.
- If you want to give your indoor cat a place to climb and scratch, you can use a small sturdy stepladder. You can cover it in Astroturf or with carpet and instantly you have a place where your cat can climb and play. You could also tie a cat toy to a piece of string or rope and attach it to the ladder
Five Essentials for a Happy and Healthy Cat
Although they are more independent creatures than dogs, cats still need lots of love and attention. Your pet cat will need five specific things in order for them to be happy and healthy little creatures. Those things are the following:
- Food
- Water
- Litter box, or free access to outdoors
- Scratching posts or access to a tree or fence
- Playtime
In addition to those very basics, you will need to decide on whether or not you should take out cat insurance for your new feline friend. Make sure that you compare pet insurance policies on a like-for-like basis when trying to decide - the staff at Animal friends Pet Insurance will be pleased to help you out if you are unsure of your needs.
Is Your Cat Going to Be An Indoor Or Outdoor Cat?
Decide whether your cat will be indoors all the time, or a mixture of indoors and outdoors. A cat that lives outdoors may not live as long, especially in rural areas where cats are preyed upon by other animals. Even in the city or built up areas, an outdoor cat runs the risk of being hit by a car, so you may want to reflect for a moment and seriously consider if you want your cat to be an indoor or outdoor cat. Some veterinarians have even stated that if you want your cat to live a long healthy life, plan to keep your cat indoors. On the other hand, outdoor cats will never be wanting for exercise or adventure, and at least will be able to follow their insticts and behave more like a cat would in its natural state.
Whatever you decide, it's important to realise that you are taking on a responsibility in owning a pet animal. Therefore, if you do not have the time to love and give your kitty the attention it deserves than maybe you should hold off the idea of getting a cat and wait until the time is right. Even though you may love cats with all your heart, taking care of a cat is a big responsibility. If you are still unsure, why not volunteer a couple of hours a week at a local rescue centre to get an idea of what is involved when you commit to taking care of an animal?
Cats Can Have Allergies Too!
Research in Scotland has shown that cats can have allergies and or asthma much like humans. Certain irritants such as cigarette smoke, dusty homes and human dandruff can increase inflammation and worsen asthma in cats. Some research has shown that some pedigree oriental breeds such as the Siamese cat, are more prone to respiratory problems than other cats.
Cats with feline asthma syndrome can be made worse by living in a household where people smoke or where there are other potential allergens or irritants. The first study of this kind is being done in Britain and it will involve 50 cats to determine whether bacteria called Mycoplasma, which is found in a person who has asthma is also found in cats with asthma. They are hoping that this research will lead to improved treatments for cats who suffer with coughs, wheezing and shortness of breath caused by asthma.
The three most common types of allergies found in cats include inhalant, food and contact allergies. The inhalant allergy is the most common one. Just like humans a cat can be sensitive to pollen, mold mildew and dust mites in the home.
Cats, like humans, can develop food allergies at any age; they don't have to be born with it. They can develop food allergies from pet food that they have been eating for quite some time. This type of allergy is usually caused by the protein components of foods such as beef, pork, chicken and turkey.
Contact allergy is the least common type found in cats. This type of allergy can be caused by a reaction to a certain substance, such as a flea collar or pet bedding materials. A contact allergy will usually cause a minor skin irritation.
Some warning signs to look for are; itching and scratching, coughing, sneezing or wheezing. Sometimes a cat will develop a runny nose or watery eyes. If you think your cat may be suffering from some sort of allergy you should take them to your vet. Your vet will be able to diagnosis what type of allergy it is and what the treatment should be.
The average lifespan of a healthy indoor cat is 15 years. You might want to consider getting pet insurance on your cat or kitten in case there are any unforeseen medical expenses in the years to come. You have health insurance on the rest of your family and for peace of mind you might want to consider getting cat insurance on your feline friend.
Alzheimer's in Cats
According to new research done by scientists cats can suffer from a feline form of Alzheimer's disease. The research was done in universities in Edinburgh, St Andrews, Bristol and California. Scientists and researchers already thought cats could be susceptible to dementia because of previous research and studies. The findings of the study have been published in a recent edition of the Journal of Feline Medicine.
This research identified thrick, gritty plaques on the outside of the older animal's brain cells which were similar to those found in humans.They have found a newly discovered protien which will be cruicial in understanding the aging process in cats. This new study shows that a cat's neural system is being compromised in a similar way that is seen in human Alzheimer's sufferers.
This dicovery of the protein associated with Alzheimer's disease can have a significant importance in developing veterinary treatments. There is also increasing evidence that dogs may also develop signs of Alzheimer's and the ongoing research could help in finding beneficial treatments of aging pets.
The shorter lifespan of a cat compared to humans allows researchers to be able to assess the effects of diet, high blood pressure, and medication on the disease. The experts suggest that a good diet, plenty of mental stimulation and companionship can reduce the risk of dementia in both humans and cats.
The average lifespan of an indoor cat is 15 years. You might want to consider getting pet insurance on your cat or kitten in case their will be unforeseen medical expenses in the years to come. You have health insurance on the rest of your family and for peace of mind you might want to get consider getting cat insurance on your feline friend.
