With that first cat somes uncertainty. You’ve never looked after a fur baby before, and when it comes to newcomer tips, advice can be hard to come by. We here at Petlibro are here to help. Join us as we look at 7 top tips for new cat owners.
1) Find a Great Veterinarian
Your cat’s health is paramount. A healthy cat is a happy cat. If you’re unfamiliar with vets in your area, you can ask your friends or use sites to find local vets. When your cat moves in, scheduling a health check-up is essential. The vet can make you aware of any health issues, allowing you to immediately address them and ensure a happy and healthy life for your feline friend.
2) Create a Great Indoor Space for Your Cat
In order for your cat to settle nicely into your home, it’s a good idea to create a special indoor space for them. Make sure it’s an enclosed area complete with their bed, litter box, water and food bowls, as well as various toys to keep them happy. Some cat scratchers are also a must.
3) Clean Out Their Litter Box Every Day
This tip’s for both you and your cat. Taking the time each day to empty the litter box will do wonders for your cat’s health and happiness. Simply scoop out the waste and either throw it in the trash or down the toilet. Your cat will have a nice clean space to enjoy, and you won’t have to wrinkle your nose or apologize to guests for the strange smell coming from your cat’s room.
4) Get an Automatic Feeder and Water Fountain
At some point, you’ll have to leave your cute kitty home alone. Keeping them fed and watered while you’re out the house is crucial. That’s where both an automatic feeder and water fountain come in handy.
With an automatic cat feeder, you can make sure your cat gets the nutrients it needs, even when you’re out of the house. You can set portion sizes and meal times, and even record messages to play when it’s time for dinner. This helps encourage your cat to eat.
Automatic cat water fountains act in a similar way, giving your cat access to fresh, clean water anytime. With 24/7 non-stop running water, your cat will be hydrated, healthy, and happy all day, every day.
5) Get Some Toys and Play with Your Cat
Playtime is the perfect time to bond with your cat. A feather wand, a toy mouse, or a laser pointer are fantastic toys to use to stimulate your cat’s brain and help foster a close-knit relationship. It’ll also bring a huge smile to your face, helping you destress after a hard day’s work.
6) Keep the AC on While You’re Out
It might not be cost-effective or environmentally friendly, but your cat will thank you for keeping the AC on in the summer. Cats have a heightened risk of heatstroke, especially if they have underlying health issues, so it’s good practice to keep things cool for them, even if you’re out of the house.
7) Feed Them High-Quality Food
High-quality food will help your cat lead a high-quality life. Your vet should be your first port of call when it comes to deciding your cat’s diet. They can recommend foods for your cat based on their breed, age, and any health conditions.