Guest Post courtesy of Linda Butts. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the guest author and do not necessarily represent the views of Val Heart & Heart Communications Enterprises Inc.
10 General Tips to Take Care of Your New Cat
Cats are curious animals. And it is fun to observe their activities and be who they are. But if you don’t have such an interested feline friend, and are considering getting one, allow us to assist you. Pawsometalk.com is just the place to help answer any of your questions about how to take care of your new cat. The common notion that “cats are low maintenance” is false.
Most cats don’t need as much physical affection as dogs do. However, that does not mean that they don’t need your attention. Like every other pet, cats need love, care, and affection. But you don’t have to be overwhelmed. We have structured ten common factors you need to be mindful of when you get a new kitty.
1. Get the Essentials
Photo by Tran Mau Tri Tam on Unsplash
First things first, the essentials. Get whatever stuff that can be needed by the cat in your house before bringing her in. Here is a list that might come in handy.
- Bowls for food and water (separately)
- Food (wet, dry)
- Kitty treats
- Litter Box
- Litter
- A Collar
- Brush
- Toys (cat safe)
- Cat Furniture (bed, porch, etc.)
- Scratching Post
- Large Cardboard Boxes (to play and hide)
- Pet Carrier (for traveling)
Be sure to consult a cat expert or a vet for what could be the best for your cat.
2. Set-Up a Room
Cats need a corner or a room they can call their own. That can be their safe space, and it has to be in a quiet place. But be mindful that it should never be confined. Cats are uneasy alone in confined spaces. Here are a few things that your kitty’s room may have,
- A bed
- Food and water
- A few toys
- Scratching Posts
- Litter box (if a big room, away from food bowls)
3. Litter Box Placement
Photo by Corina Rainer on Unsplash
Placement of the litter boxes is crucial. They need to be in a quiet space, away from people and noisy appliances. But they also should not be in basements, confined spaces, and places that are hard to reach for the cat. Also, strategically place litter boxes at multiple places around your house because your cat will not make long trips if he or she needs to go.
4. Provide Toys
Toys are great tools for you to connect with your cat, and for him to enjoy some time and keep himself busy. But pick toys that will not cause harm to your cat.
5. Feeding Schedule
Set a feeding schedule. Ideally, cats need to be fed with a gap of 8-12 hours. However, consult your vet before setting up a schedule. Also, when you decide on one, stick to it. Make sure that your cat has ample clean drinking water available through the day.
6. Initial Vet Appointment
Photo by Erda Estremera on Unsplash
Your cat’s first visit to the vet is important. Your cat will be uneasy going into an unfamiliar environment. That is why you should pick a cat specialist vet. That way, your vet will be able to familiarize himself with your cat quickly. Also, get any necessary shots and vaccines for the cat, and be sure to ask for health tips.
7. Groom Your Cat
Cats like to groom themselves. However, they would appreciate you brushing their fur and keeping them pretty (the way they like). Brushing regularly will also remove the loose hairs, preventing the chances of hairballs. You also get to spend some physical time with your cat. However, they may be uncomfortable letting you groom them at first. Try to associate grooming with a happy time.
8. Play with Your Cat
Photo by Bruce Kee on Unsplash
Please spend some time with your cat and play with him or her. That is necessary to strengthen the bond between the two of you. You should at least play with your cat for 10-15 minutes, two times a day.
9. Cat Collars
Give your cat a collar that must have the cat’s name along with your name and contact details. This is important if she decides to take a stroll outside.
10. Keep Cat Indoors
Your new cat is unfamiliar with your neighborhood. That is why, in the beginning, keep him indoors and train him or her to be indoors. Training is also necessary so that he or she does avoid going outside unsupervised or stray too far away.
Bonus Tips:
These are a few tips that will help you take better care of your new feline friend.
- Keep the health of your cat in check
- Check for your cat’s ideal weight and provide necessary diet.
- Visit your vet regularly.
- Look out for changes in behavior
- If your kitty is inactive, more aggressive, or any other odd behavior.
- If a cat is refusing food, that may be a sign of heath or mental issue.
- Consult your vet.
- Keep track of needs with age
- A cat’s needs keep changing with age.
- Consult your vet and keep track of those needs.
- Do not force a cat
- Do not forcefully interact with the him.
- Don’t force the cat to play.
- Do not forcefully pet her.
- Do not force him to adjust to your house.
- Don’t intrude on the cat’s personal space or time.
- Do not force introduction with other cats or pets.
- Cleanliness
- Cats can be clean freaks. That is why
- Keep your house tidy
- Regularly clean the bed, bowls, toys, and litter boxes.
- Cats can be clean freaks. That is why
In Conclusion
Cats, unlike dogs, may not enjoy patting and physical affection. But don’t be discouraged. For all cats, just being around their owners is enough. If he or she likes to hang around you, you are liked. Cats will eventually start to show you affection. Be patient!
Be sure to leave your comment below!
About the author: Linda Butts
Hey, I’m Linda Butts, the girl behind Pawsome Talk. With my pawsometalk.com, I hope to share the ideas and techniques from my personal experiences of what I have done with my pet research and what I love about pets and their lives. I expect to help you feel at ease if you start to make a friendship with your pet while you enjoy your journey. Please don’t be shy to ask me when you need help or are out of ideas. Let’s ask and share what you’ve got.
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