Cat Care Tips that All First-time Owners Need to Know
- Author: Michael Bordonada
- Posted: 2024-07-30
If this is your first time welcoming a cat into your home, you must be excited to have a flurry friend as part of your family. You will play with the pet, touching their fur and caring for them. However, it may be challenging to understand how best to care for the cat being a first-time cat owner. If that is the case, here are the five tips to help you provide your cat with the best care.
You Need to Have All Cat Supplies
Before welcoming the cat to your home, ensure to get all the supplies they might need. For example, get a litter box and ensure it is always clean. Also, you need to get food and treats for the cat. It would be best if you also had clean serving bowls for your cat's food and water. Additionally, buy all the items you need for grooming the pet, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, nail clippers, and combs.
The cat also needs a bed to rest, scratch posts and cards, and toys for playing. You may also get a good leash or harness for walking your pet. It would be best if you got a suitable quality carrier to use when traveling with your furry friend. When shopping for cat fun products and items, feel free to pick any other thing your cat might enjoy.
Go to a Wellness Clinic
It is essential to take your feline for a wellness examination. Carry your cat using a carrier as you visit the vet. The veterinarian will observe their general health condition if it is the pet's initial appointment. He will advise you on the best plan to prevent parasites and set the vaccination dates. If your cat is still young, the vet may notify you to take it for a booster shot first.
The vet will also guide you on how to care for your cat's teeth, the best diet, and other basic essentials. In addition, they will explain to you why you need to microchip your pet to prevent them from getting lost. When you visit the vet, make sure to ask everything you need to know about cat care.
The Environment Should be Comfortable for the Cat
You should be keen to make the environment conducive for the flurry buddy, just as you would for a toddler. You should remove everything that would harm the cat and add anything that would enhance their comfort.
Confirm the condition of the windows and doors and fix any that have a problem. Also, maintain the cleanliness of the floors to remove anything that might cause problems to the cat, such as tiny objects that might prick them while walking or resting. Ensure to store all medicines in tightly closed containers and a cabinet.
Check that there are no toxic plants in your compound and remove any you may find. Additionally, avoid cleaning your house using harmful chemicals and place all cleaning materials in a safe place.
Follow the Vet's Advice about Feeding the Pet
Follow the vet's advice on the proper diet and food portions to serve your cat. Avoid skipping some of your pet's regular meals. Also, provide your cat with clean drinking water. Since cats like running water, consider getting a fountain bottle for yours. Also, while treats are suitable for the flurry friend, restrict the quantities you give to your cat daily.
Encourage Your Cat to Play and Exercise
Cats love staying indoors. Therefore, you should create time for your pet to exercise and play each day. That will enable them to remain healthy and kill boredom. Consider buying some toys and cat trees, and other play items. You may also get a window perch for your feline friend to use while looking outside the window.
Additionally, spare some time to brush the cat to make them relax and feel loved. It may also be a great idea to take your cat to places meant for pets so they can get some fresh air and change the environment. Exercise and play will also prevent your furry friend from getting obese, which is common in cats. It would be best if you didn't assume that your pet gets enough exercise without your involvement.
If you are planning to bring a cat into your home for the first time, it is essential to understand how best to provide them with the comfort they deserve. While you may face challenges initially, the above tips will guide you on how best to care for the new member in your home.
