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Basic Cat Care

So, you're planning on taking home a cat? Congratulations on a wise choice! Cats are wonderful animals and they make fabulous house pets for many reasons.

Before you bring your new cat home, however, remember this: Cats may seem to be independent but they do require ongoing care and love.

Here are some of the most important aspects of cat care:

Make sure your new cat eats a healthy diet and has easy access to clean water.
Keep dangerous substances locked away from your cat.
Introduce a new cat to her new environment slowly.
If you already own another pet, separate your cat and your other pet until your cat familiarizes herself with her new surroundings as well as the other pet.
Allow your cat plenty of opportunity to exercise with toys, use a scratching post and access to safe places to climb.
Never leave your cat alone in the car.
When traveling with your cat, use a cat carrier.
Ensure all houseplants are non-toxic.
Keep your cat and her environment clean.
Keep the litter box fresh. The box should be scooped daily and cleaned weekly.
See a veterinarian annually and keep up with regular vaccinations.
Give your cat as much love, care, and attention as she wants.

Indoor cats can live to be fifteen years or older, so you have plenty of time to prepare for her golden years. Older cats call for special care. Feed them a diet that's geared toward older cats, and know that older cats may be prone to dental problems, kidney malfunction and obesity. Check with your veterinarian at the first sign of problems or unusual behavior.

Take good care of your cat now and enjoy a wonderful life together for a long, long time to come!

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