It is often said that, ‘you don’t own the cat, the cat owns you!’
Being a first time cat owner can be a daunting task. Each cat has a unique personality and it takes time for them to get into the groove. You need to keep the following tips in mind on what to expect when you get a cat and ways to help your kitty adjust to its new home.
Cat personality
Each cat has its own distinctive personality. Some like to be picked up and some do not. Some cats are at peace lying on your lap, while some just do not want to be in one place! It is important to identify the personality of your cat, so that you can make adjustments to your lifestyle according to your new house member.
Cats like to scratch
It is no secret that cats like to scratch and it becomes hard when they find out ways to destroy your expensive leather couches. Declawing cats has been getting a lot of flak, so cat owners nowadays resort to just clipping the cat’s nails and gluing on Soft Paws to reduce the damage to their belongings. It is important to get a good pair of nail clippers. It might also help to get a few types of scratching posts and place in strategic spots for your cat.
Time out
Cats in general do not have separation anxiety and can safely be left at home while you work. Make sure you give a little direct attention and extra kisses once you come back home though.
Invest in hygiene
Before you bring in your new pet, make sure your house has the necessary things for your cat. Unlike dogs, cats are not hard to potty train and might require only a few days. Make sure you have cat litter, litter pans and scoops. Cat litter is clay grain designed to clump making it easy to scoop out. It will be easy in the long run for both you and your cat.
Food
Cats are carnivores in general. If you decide on feeding home cooked food to your cat make sure it gets all nutrients from the food. A good plan is to add fish to their diet.
Indoor/outdoor
I don’t think it is a good idea if they are not use to being outside, but some cats may like to explore the outside world. Most cats cannot be leash trained, so if you decide to let your cats outside, make sure you take necessary precautions, like getting them vaccinated. It would also help to either spay/neuter them , if you do not want more kittens.
Calming aids and sprays
Cats may sometimes indulge in destructive behavior when they are stressed out, like moving into a new place, arrival of a new child and so on. Calming sprays are designed to help in these scenarios. You may also use a blend of essential oils to calm your cat.
Cat toys
Some cats like to play a lot. It is heartening to know that cats can get entertained by the simplest things, such as a ball of twine or a stuffed toy. Get creative! Reuse some of your household stuff to make play exciting and new.
Grooming
Some long-haired cats such as Main Coon need to be brushed often to keep their lustrous mane free from tangles and matting. Short-haired cats are less maintenance. Cats do shed, so you will have to take efforts to keep your house fur-free. Cats will sometimes bring up fur balls, there are treats and a blend of food to help. If it becomes a problem talk to your vet. Lint rollers can easily remove cat hair from your clothing and furniture.
Health
Lastly, make sure you take your cat to the vet regularly so that you and your cat can enjoy many wonderful years together.
