Just adopted a new cat? PAW-esome! You might be new to raising cats, or even animals in general, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Follow these basic care tips for your first cat and you’ll have a new best friend in no time!
1. Fresh Water Access
You should always make sure your kitty’s water bowl is filled with clean water. Monitor it frequently to keep your cat hydrated and help prevent kidney disease and urinary tract infections.
2. Litter Boxes
Don’t forget that your cat needs a place to go too! It’s a good idea to have two litter boxes per cat that you own, just so there are plenty of areas for them to use. Another thing to keep in mind is strategically placing your litter boxes at locations your cat can easily access and feel comfortable using. These spots should be easy to reach from most places in the house and be relatively quiet and undisturbed. Keeping it clean is just as important! Scoop it everyday and clean the whole box once per week. Just like you’d prefer to use a clean toilet, so do they.
3. Diet and Exercise
Speak with a trusted veterinarian to determine what food is best for your cat, whether that be dry food, wet food, or a combination of both. Do some research on pet food brands to pick one that suits your cat’s health needs and your budget. Cats also have preferences just like people, so they may avoid certain brands and prefer other. Additionally, diet and exercise go hand in hand. Prioritize play time by purchasing cat toys to keep your kitty active and slim. Make time in the day to play with them, but also make sure they have things to play with when you’re out of the house.
4. Spay or Neuter
A great way to prevent disease is by spaying or neutering your cat. Females that aren’t spayed are at risk of uterine infections and ovarian cancers, while male cats could be prone to testicular cancer and prostate problems. It’s also an effective way to reduce the homeless cat population!
5. Brushing
This one all depends on your cat’s comfort level and fur type. Regular brushing can help reduce the amount of hair shedding and hairballs, plus it keeps your cat looking well-groomed. Another added benefit is bonding time between you and your pet!
In need of some more tips for your first cat? Reach out to get your questions answered.