Over 38 million households in America are home to at least one feline friend. If you’re thinking of getting your first cat, it’s important to make sure that you know what to expect.
Taking care of a cat is appealing because they often don’t need as much attention or effort as a dog. That being said, they still require certain conditions, love, and care.
We’re here to help you prepare by going over some of the basic necessities and tools you’ll need for your new pet.
Read on for our guide to taking care of a cat.
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Other Pets? Introduce Them Slowly
If you have other pets in the house, make sure that you’re ready for a slow introduction. Cats don’t often like to be thrown into a confined space with other animals.
First, make sure that you have a room where you can comfortably house the cat away from the rest of the house. Be sure to include everything they’ll need, including food, water, toys, and a litter box.
Allow your other pets to approach the closed door so that everyone can become familiar with each other’s scents. After a few days, bring your pets into the room where your cat is staying and give the cat free reign. After repeating this process for up to two weeks, you can slowly start to bring your pets face to face.
Establishing a Feeding Schedule
Some cats are perfectly capable of grazing throughout the day without over-eating. However, it’s often better to establish a feeding schedule so that you don’t end up with an overweight cat.
You may also want to talk to your vet about your cat’s dietary needs. Remember, cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they need to eat meat. Make sure that you’re feeding your cat high-quality cat food that meets their needs.
Letting Your Cat Outside? Get the Right Tools
Some people enjoy letting their cats roam around outside. Cats should never, under any circumstances, be declawed. If your cat happens to be declawed, letting them outside is not an option, as they have no way to defend themselves.
Because domestic cats are natural predators to a lot of our wildlife, it’s best to monitor their outdoor activities. Using outside cat enclosures is the best way to ensure that your cat doesn’t run away or cause harm to other animals.
Whether or not you allow your cat to go outside, you should get them chipped. If your cat ever escapes and gets lost, their chip will make it much easier for them to end up back in your arms.
Taking Care of a Cat Is Easy With the Right Preparation
If you’re ready to get your first cat, you’re in for years of joy! Taking care of a cat is rewarding and it can be simple as long as you’re prepared.
Looking for more tips to help you raise your furry friends? Take a look at the rest of our content for useful information and guides.