Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
An old folk saying says that cats always land on their feet. Though often true, a cat's ability to right itself doesn't help it prevent injury, and serious falls can lead to injury, broken limbs and even death. Open windows present a serious danger to cats, which are more than happy to jump out of them in chase of birds, bugs, fear or their own mysterious whims. Make sure your windows aren't posing a hidden threat to your cat's safety.
A cat is a curious creature, and once you bring one home to your apartment, it'll play with anything that catches its fancy. While nothing drastic is required, there are guidelines you can follow to ensure that both your cat and your apartment are safe when left alone together. Having to cat-proof your apartment seems almost amusing, but it can make a huge difference in protecting your favorite items from breakage, in reducing the risk of a house fire -- and in keeping your cat from harm.
Kittens spend about 16 to 18 hours a day snoozing, according to Vetinfo. But when they're not sleeping, these bundles of energy are constantly in motion and exploring the world around them. If a kitten is new to your home, he may feel insecure and want to hunker down in a secluded spot. When you realize your feline is missing, don't despair. Instead, take a few steps to find your kitten in his hiding place. If he is not in danger in the hiding spot, leave him alone. Dragging a kitten out of a hiding place can make it fearful…
Cats are naturally very wild and adventurous, and many cats enjoy being allowed out to roam around the garden and neighborhood. Some people choose to keep their cats indoors, for various personal reasons. These can include health reasons, or to protect the cat from danger such as roads or pregnancy. Introducing an indoor cat to the outdoors should be done carefully to avoid causing the cat too much distress.
Most house cats enjoy loving interaction with humans, but if you're trying to rescue a feral cat, whether from a shelter or on your own, you'll probably need lots of patience. Some outdoor cats have a very difficult time adapting, but with patience, you may well successfully convert them. Cats that have survived outside for any length of time are rightfully wary and have probably learned that trusting is a bad, often dangerous, weakness. As a result, you will have to earn your cat's confidence.
If your indoor cat refuses to be house-trained, it may not work to keep it as an indoor cat. Getting your cat used to being outdoors should be handled carefully and patiently. However, if you live in an urban environment such as a city, it may be too dangerous for your cat to be outdoors. If you live in a rural setting, having your cat outdoors will work well for you and for the cat, as the cat will most likely be happier and healthier spending more time outdoors.
Deciding to bring a new kitten home with you for the first time is an exciting decision. With a new pet comes brand new responsibilities, though. Your first step, before your kitten even steps foot in your house, is to make sure your home is a safe haven for your cat. While you may be excited, your kitten may be scared at the change and new location. Pet-proof your home to ensure there won't be any accidents or mishaps.
Ideally, cat owners would never have to transport a cat by car in hot weather. The risks of leaving a cat in a hot car even for a short time are significant, including heatstroke and death. However, if care is taken to ensure that the cat does not overheat and is never left unattended, safe car travel with cats is possible even in very hot weather. Using air-conditioning and a crate fan can help to keep cats cool, while offering regular access to fresh water helps to avoid dehydration.
Often times, many people associate hanging plants with cascading, gorgeous flowers and leaves. However, many different plants can be hung in hanging pots---and with the right amount of water and fertilizer, plants you wouldn't normally think to hang, can flourish. Plus, hanging plants can help keep them away from cats, even if the plant is nontoxic and cat friendly.
Peppermint oil is harmful to cats, as are other peppermint products. Peppermint oil has been known to send some cats to the hospital, according to "Natural Remedies for Dogs and Cats" by C.J. Puotinen.
Christmas, Hanukkah, Solstice, New Year's Eve and other winter holidays are a joyous, exciting time for humans, but they can be scary or dangerous for our pet cats. Gift ribbon, poinsettias, candles and tinsel are just a few holiday traditions that can harm, or even kill, a cat. With a little planning and forethought, you can have a holiday that is happy for both you and your cat.
Kittens are a fairly easy pet to maintain and keep healthy. However, kittens are babies and still learning how to take care of themselves. It is important to take steps to provide kittens with a safe atmosphere as they learn what is and is not wise behavior. Go through the home or apartment where the kitten will be living and look at every detail through the eyes of a cat.
Cats make great pets. However, when you are trying to catch one that doesn't want to be caught, or trying to catch a cat you don't know, things can get hairy. Since cat scratches and bites can lead to serious infections, you need to take safety precautions when trying to catch one.
Keep you cat off the counters or tables.
Learn tips about de-clawing, housing your stray indoors or outdoors, and generally keeping your rescued cat safe in this free animal care video.
Keep and store homemade toys safely in this free video.
The moving van is scheduled. Packing to move hundreds or even thousands of miles away feels like the easy part. Now your question is how to keep your cat safe and comfortable for days in the car. He loves you but does love the comfort of familiar surroundings more. Relax. You'll both be fine. Here are a few solutions to arrange the car as a cat comfort palace, prepare food, and plan accommodations. Confidence and peace of mind can travel along, as you and your beloved companion hit the road.
