How to care for a cat

Cats have had mixed reviews throughout history. Domesticated thousands of years ago by the Egyptians, they were used to control rats and mice in the granaries. Although revered by some cultures, cats were considered evil in parts of Europe. This resulted in a decline in the cat population. Some people connect the lack of cats with the outbreak of plague carried by rats.

Raising a cat is an unforgettable experience. Cats are not known for being your “best friend.” Each has a distinct personality, which is somewhat influenced by breed. Cats range from affectionate to aloof, playful to hostile. Your interaction with the cat as a kitten can help shape its behavior in later life. Although cats enjoy spending time with their owners, they also require solitary time.

Cats are very independent minded. Learning how to care for a cat gives you a little more influence over its behavior. But not much.

Health

The health of your cat begins with regular visits to the veterinarian. Making sure it has the required vaccinations can eliminate some common illnesses. Spaying or neutering your pet can also assure a healthier life.

A healthy cat with have bright eyes, clean ears, and a glossy coat. It will be eager to play with you and with toys. It will enjoy your affections and may demand that you hold and pet it. Cats enjoy getting between you and whatever you are doing. Be alert to any change in behavior or eating and elimination habits. These can be signs of illness.

Feeding

An abundance of commercial cat food is available on the market. Your basic choices are between wet or dry food. Study labels to know for sure what you are getting. A cat’s nutritional needs are best satisfied by protein. Before making a final decision about which food you are going to offer, be sure to ask your cat!

Feed one large meal and two small ones daily. Giving an occasional treat is acceptable. Too many treats and you could be encouraging obesity in your pet. Check the ingredients. If feeding dry food, it can be left out during the day. Leftover canned food should be removed when the cat is finished.

Keep fresh water available at all times. Wash and sterilize bowls often. Choose sturdy bowls that are not easily tipped over. Do not give cow’s milk to cats, as it will cause diarrhea.

Behavior modification

Certain behaviors are natural to cats. Their need to scratch, fight, and mark their territory are important for their survival in the wild. However, these tendencies are not appreciated in your home. If you start while your cat is young, you will have a better chance of making the boundaries clear.  Praise and encouragement will help your cat learn what is expected. Discipline should be limited to speaking in a loud voice.

Providing a scratching post can help protect your valuable pieces of furniture. It should be tall enough for the cat to stretch out full length. Keeping a fresh supply of appealing toys can discourage the cat from playing with your valuable possessions. If the cat must be left alone while the family is away, make preparations for food, water, and litter box. Cats that are ignored can display unacceptable behavior.

Litter box blues

A litter box appeals to a cat’s instincts to bury its waste in soft soil or sand. If the cat is cooperative, it can usually catch on to the concept of a litter box rather quickly. If there are other cats, they will often imitate each others’ behaviors. Allow at least one litter box for each cat. Even if you only have one cat, place a litter box on each floor of your home.

A number of litter products are on the market. Experiment to see which seem to work for your pet. Cats will not use a soiled litter box. Remove solid wastes daily. Change litter and clean thoroughly each week.

A stressed out cat may seek out unauthorized areas to do its chores. Scold him or her for accidents. Take him or her to the litter box as a reminder

Multiple cats

Having multiple cats in the household can add an interesting dynamic. Dominant personalities will develop, and everyone will know his or her place in the chain of command—including you.

Sometimes the new cat will get off on the wrong paw with the resident cat(s). Try keeping the new cat isolated in a separate room for a few days. Cats seem to be more accepting of a new member if they are allowed to get acquainted by smell first. The memory of a bad face-to-face meeting is difficult to overcome.

Conclusion

Interacting with a cat can be highly entertaining and fulfilling. Knowing how to care for a cat will enrich the experience.