Felines can be smart, playful, affectionate and oftentimes incredibly independent. However, to keep your cat healthy and safe, there are basic issues you should have a good understanding of.
Common Hazards
Cat’s curiosities can get them into some pretty precarious situations. Taking precautions against seemingly benign household items can help to keep your pet safe and your sanity in check!
- Drapery and exposed electrical cords. Cats often like to chew on cords whether they are hanging from your drapes or plugging a lamp into a wall outlet. Use childproofing items to keep drapery cords off the floor. Also, be aware of where your electrical cords are. Keep them as out of sight as possible to help prevent possible electrocution or fire.
- Be able to identify poisonous plants. Often tempting to our furry friends, common plants like Easter lilies and philodendrons are toxic to cats and can kill them if consumed. Seek medical help immediately if you suspect your can has ingested a poisonous plant. Your veterinarian can help you identify common household plants that pose a danger to your pet.
- Remove tablecloths and other hanging temptations. Curious kittens love to explore, and a table top can be the perfect vantage point. A loose table cloth or runner can result in broken dishes—and an injured kitten.
- Keep Fluffy inside. Cats are safest indoors, not out. Be sure to check screen doors and windows are secure to prevent your beloved pet from slipping out.
The Indoor Cat
Myth: going outdoors is a requirement for your cat’s happiness. You can easily satisfy the need to be outdoors by simply playing regularly with your pet. Cat play can manage her stalking instincts, stimulate her mind and provide exercise to keep her fit and heathy. Following are some tips for creating the perfect indoor environment for your feline friend:
Sun rooms or screened porches can offer a great way for your cats to experience the great outdoors. Window-mounted cat hammocks (or perch) can also bring the sights and sounds of nature to your cat’s indoor habitat. An alternative to the perch is an enclosure that sits in a window frame. Be sure to secure your window screens to ensure fluffy doesn’t make her way outside unnoticed.
Kitty condos range in many sizes and can range from floor to ceiling at their tallest. These provide more climbing, play and rest areas as well as create new vertical spaces which mimic trees and other outdoor elements.
Nothing beats playing and spending time with your cat each day. Alternate Fluffy’s toys and include exploratory items such as paper bags, cardboard boxes or even laundry baskets. These items will keep your cat entertained when home alone.
Remember, although your cat is indoors, don’t forget to purchase a collar which clearly identifies you and your contact information.
What Every Cat Owner should Have
Making fluffy feel at home isn’t difficult. A few key items and some advanced planning will help ensure your cat is comfortable, safe and challenged.
- Litter box and litter
- Cat dishes
- Grooming Tools
- Nail Clippers
- A Scratching Post
- A Cat Bed
- Toys (avoid string or rolls of yarn as a cat’s barbed tongue can make spitting these objects out difficult)