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Library
of Pet Health Topics at My
Cat Care Clinic...
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General
information for cat owners
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Most cats prefer unscented
scoop-able litters. Using a strongly perfumed litter may discourage
litter box use. Some cats have a strong
preference for certain brands/types of litter, so you may need to find out what your cat wants to use.
Most standard litter boxes are not large enough for the average cat. A
litter box should be 1 ½ times as long as the cat. For many cats this means using a plastic Rubbermaid-type container as a
litter box. The boxes made for under the bed storage work great, or you can choose one with higher sides if your cat tends to spill litter out of the box.
Many cats do not like plastic litter box liners.
If your cats are having litter box issues- add another box. The general rule is 1 more box than the number of cats. Some cats do not require this many, but if problems are occurring it may help. Some single cat will prefer to have 2 boxes as they don't always want to urinate and defecate in the same place.
Litter boxes should be scooped regularly (a few times a week to daily if needed) and the box should be emptied and washed at least once a month.
Most cats who have used the box and suddenly stop have a medical reason for doing so.
If a cat stops using the litter box, the FIRST thing to do is to take them to a vet and have a urinalysis done to look for infection or crystals.
If a cat (esp. if male) is trying to urinate and not producing any urine, it is an emergency and he needs to be seen by a veterinarian right away.
Cats who stay indoors all the time live much longer and cost less money then cats that are allowed outdoors. Some of the outdoor risks include: cars, abuse, viral infections, cat fights, dog fights, getting lost, as well as fleas and parasites.
Most houseplants are not good for kitties to eat, esp. the lily and azalea plants. If your cat is prone to nibbling, spray houseplants with Bitter Apple spray to discourage tasting. You can grow wheat grass in a pot if your cat really wants some greens to nibble.
Cats metabolize and use medications differently than people and should never be given any medication without the recommendation of your veterinarian. Tylenol, for example, is very toxic for cats.
If you plan to de-claw your cat, it is best done when they are very small, around 8-16 weeks of age (around 2-4 pounds).
Kittens should have their first vaccines around 6-8 weeks of age, as this is when their immunity from their mother starts to wane.
Kittens have a teething phase from around 10 weeks up to about 6 months of age.
Cats can get pregnant very young and very easily! Spay and neuter them young!
Spaying has health benefits other than just preventing pregnancy: cats spayed before their first heat have a significantly decreased risk of deadly mammary tumors. And spayed cats are less likely to engage in urine marking or turf wars.
Most cats will accept a baby coming into the household without issue.
Children should be taught to respect the cat as early as possible to help ensure the safety of both. It is a good idea to give the cat a place to go where children and visitors are not allowed to disturb the cat. This allows the cat the option to stay away from stressful situations that can cause
trouble.
When there are problems between household cats, increasing the vertical space with cat trees or allowing cats on higher cabinets will decrease a lot of tension between cats.
When introducing a new cat to a resident cat, allow them to sniff under a door first, then progress to having the new kitty in a crate and allowing the resident cat to meet her at her own pace. Expect some grumbling at first and be sure to give the resident kitty lots of extra attention.
With almost any behavior problem, it will help to spend 10 minutes each day alone with the cat, giving them your undivided attention. Cats also love a routine, so if possible try to feed, clean boxes, give attention around the same time each day.
It is possible to move to a new house or apartment with a cat (and/or dog for that matter)
When you move, leave 1 room (usually a bedroom) set up as long as possible and leave the cat in there until you need to go. Then set up 1 room (usually a bedroom again) and leave the cat in there as you unpack the rest of the house. She can become comfortable in the room and then explore the rest of the house at her leisure.
If you need to rent a place with your animals:
Start looking for housing as soon as possible; it IS possible to rent with pets, but it
will often take longer to find a place.
Expect or offer to pay a security deposit for your pets, to ensure any damage is
covered.
A letter from your vet and from your previous landlord will also encourage renting.
(And please treat a rented living space as you would you own house. Tenants who
allow pets to damage carpet and woodwork and who do not clean up after their
pets, make it more difficult for others to rent.)
Who will take care of your pets when you travel? A friend? boarding kennel? neighbor? pet sitter? It is best to consider this ahead of time.
Plan for your pets' medical care, either with pet insurance, or by saving a bit each month in a pet fund so that if they have a sudden need you are able to take care of them. At a minimum, all cats should have a veterinary exam once each year.
Always call your veterinarian if your cat refuses to eat for more than a day or two.
When adopting keep in mind that you are making a long-term commitment; many cats live for 15 years or more.
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