Playful and affectionate, these furry creatures can be the perfect pet and companion. Cats can be independent and require little maintenance most of the time but you still need to know how to keep them healthy and happy by providing their basic needs. So aside from providing food, clean water, and shelter, here are some tips to guide you on giving the best possible care for your new feline friend.
- Play with your cat
- Playing with your cat will not only strengthen your bond but it will also provide the physical and mental stimulation to keep them healthy. You can use cat toys bought at pet stores but most cats will love to play with almost anything, from balls to empty boxes. Just make sure that you spend enough time with them and return their love and affection.
- Groom your cat
- Brush your cat regularly to keep their coats and skin healthy and reduce shedding and hairballs. During grooming, you can also check for fleas, parasites, injuries, and anything unusual that would need veterinary care. Clip their claws to keep them relatively blunt and less likely to harm you and your furniture. Also, it may seem as a surprise, but cats also need their teeth brushed to prevent dental diseases.
- Train your cat
- Though they may seem stubborn because of their independent nature, cats can also be trained to follow basic house rules. With a positive approach, discourage your cat from scratching your furniture and jumping on forbidden surfaces such as your kitchen counter. A gentle water spray or a stern ‘no’ can make them understand that they have broken your rules. Always remember to be patient and never yell or hit your cat. These constant reminders will be enough to teach your cat to follow house rules.
- Provide a scratching post for your cat
- A scratching post or a scratching mat will keep your cats from damaging your furniture. This behavior is normal for cats and it would be impossible to train them not to scratch at all. Another option would be declawing wherein your cat’s claws will be surgically removed.