If you’re a brand new pet owner, you would like only the very best for your pet baby. What can you do to create a home that is as warm as you can, when everything’s new for both the cat and you? What could you do to make your cat feel secure and healthy and content? A checklist for first-time cat owners must include scratchers for cats, more litter boxes, and plenty of time to play. Here are 10 suggestions that all new cat owners must know.
1. Help Your Cat Feel Safe and Secure
Your cat is likely to initially be timid initially, so you need to create your home as inviting as you can. It’s normal that your cat gets anxious and afraid of you. Cats aren’t usually a fan of change and they may need some time to adjust to the new scents and sounds that are in your home.
You can make a difference by giving your cat its own space or an area where she can go to feel comfortable and safe. Set up the cozy bed in the room so she can lie down. Some cats prefer a closed-off mattress that they can relax in when they are overwhelmed. Also, you can put in several catnip toys as well as a cozy blanket.
Install Set up Comfort Zone diffusers to calm your cat all over the house Ideally, plug one into the outlet of every room in which your cat is likely to spend in the largest amount of time. They release a safe and odorless vapor that mimics the scents released by cats to signal that the space is secure and safe. It’s like sending a signal using the cat’s language that can enhance her mental well-being. If your cat is comfortable it’s less likely that she’ll be stressed and react with stress-related behaviors like spraying and scratching. If your home has several cats consider using the Comfort Zone Multi-Cat Diffuser. You could also opt for a comfort Zone Calming Collar that comes with a BreakAway security feature.
2. Visit the Vet
Find your cat’s best vet, make an appointment for a check-up and ensure your cat’s vaccinations are current. You might want to consider purchasing a microchip for him too. Keep the microchip’s number as well as a picture of your cat on your smartphone in case the cat ever escapes. You’ll be thankful you did.
3. Introduce Your Cat to Other Pets Slowly
When you get your new cat, slowly introduce her to other pets including your pet. Place your cat in a separate area and feed your pet in a separate area on the other side of the door that is closed. Set each pet’s pet’s blankets in the pet’s room and change rooms frequently so that they can get used to each other’s scents. In the end, you can feed the animals on both sides of a gate closed, and then introduce supervised visits. Be aware of their body language every moment of every step, so that you can keep them separated when needed.
4. Try Different Kinds of Litter and Boxes
It’s generally recommended to keep one litter box for each cat and an additional one. 1 Cats may become a bit aggressive about the litter box, therefore be sure that the cat you are getting sufficient space.
You may also want to experiment with different types of litter boxes. Certain cats prefer soft litter while cats with long hair may prefer litter made of crystal that won’t stick to their hair. Cats may prefer boxes that are covered or boxes that are not covered, boxes with low edges, or different varieties. Keep litter boxes safe from any heavy foot traffic or loud sounds. Make sure to clean your cat’s litter each day, and give it a thorough cleaning once every week.
If your kitten isn’t digging up her poop, try these steps to encourage that behavior.
5. Make sure you feed your cat high-quality food and keep your cat away from all things Dangerous
Cats love high-quality foods. AvoDerm’s dry and wet cat food is an excellent starting point. There are many varieties to pick from.
Make sure you stay clear of human food products that can be harmful to cats and make sure to only keep your house plants safe for your cat. Cats are very adept at getting into anything and so make sure you lock everything that could hurt your pet, such as cleaning products.
6. Make food and drink more creative with your creativity. Water Bowls
If you have pets and cats, you should know that they may be a part of the cat’s food. You might want to consider a feeder for the cat that is attached to windows. You can set it in a high position, where your pet isn’t able to reach it.
Cats are known to drink much less than what they require. Install water bowls in different areas of your home, and think about using water bowls that are filtered. You may also want to test a water fountain bowl, as cats like drinking running water. It’s more oxygenated, which means it tastes better for them and they can also hear it running, which let them know that it’s fresher. 2
7. Create an Enticing Indoor Environment
While cats are generally safe when they’re indoors but they also tend to get bored. Make an inviting indoor space for your brand-new pet. Create cat condos as well as a cat tree, so your cat is able to climb. Unfold the shades and put your window with perches to provide your cat with an opportunity to watch “cat TV” to watch outside. Set up a bird feeder in the window for more enjoyment. Make sure you have plenty of toys (some that have catnip) for your cat to play with. This includes games that are interactive to play during those times when you’re not there.
8. Set Up Cat Scratchers
Cats must scratch to get rid of dead outside skin layers from their claws. They also do it for stretching their body and to define their territories. 3 Scratching is also a means to show happiness or ease anxiety. If you don’t offer scratchers, your cat may go to the carpet or even your furniture.
It’s better to have more cat scratchers than inadequate scratchers. Set up scratchers in various places where your cat prefers to spend time. You might want to try both horizontal or horizontal scratchers, as certain cats only prefer one kind.
9. Enjoy a Little Outdoor Fun
If you’re not comfortable with your cat wandering around outside but you can still enjoy secure outdoor adventures with them. Install an outdoor area that is enclosed for your cat to play in, such as a catio or cat tent, which is secured on the ground. You could also set your cat up on an appropriate harness and take him to walk around the backyard with a leash.
Your cat needs to become accustomed to the harness in the indoor environment first. Some might “belly crawl” on the ground for a while before they’re at ease in the harness while others may not move for a short time as they adjust to the feeling. However, most people will come to enjoy it over time, particularly when they realize that wearing the harness is a sign that they’re going outdoors.
10. Have Fun with Your Cat
Enjoy a lot of time with your kitten. It keeps her brain active and aids in developing great socialization abilities. Make her chase an enticing feather throughout the home or place the treat in your hand and let your cat chase you around and down the hallway. Clicker training is an excellent way to strengthen your connection with your cat and keep her brain active. 4
A new furry friend to your home is among the many delights of owning an animal. Follow these 10 steps to make the perfect home for a healthy and happy cat house.
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