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Cats easily become members of the family and losing them to illness is almost as hard as losing a human family member. The following are some ways that you can ensure that your cat will stay healthy and happy for a very long time.
1. The most important thing you can do to promote good physical health for your cat is to take him for regular veterinary checkups. Get all the necessary vaccinations even if your cat does not go outside. Some viruses can be transmitted through soil that people bring in on their shoes or from the pets of people who come into your home.
2. Feed your cat twice a day with a good quality dry or soft cat food. Your veterinarian can recommend a good brand. Leave plenty of water for your cat and change it often.
3. Never give your cat table scraps as this does not provide the necessary nutrition your cat needs to stay healthy.
4. Cats love tuna, but it can cause more harm than good if you give your cat canned tuna too often. Once in a while, you can give it as a treat, but only in small quantities.
5. Cats are natural hunters, however, if you catch your cat with a mouse or bird, do not let him eat it. They can carry disease and bacteria that might harm your cat.
6. Brush your cat everyday to loosen and remove dead fur. Use a good brush that grabs and traps loose fur. If your cat objects to being brushed (most like to be brushed), you can use a glove that is specially designed for grooming your cat.
7. If your cat gets a hairball, use a hairball prevention and treatment that is recommended by your veterinarian.
8. Cats need to exercise. You can get your cat moving by dangling or throwing cat toys in front of him to encourage him to play. An added benefit to this is that you will be spending quality time with your cat.
9. Cats can be left alone during the day while you go to work but they still need companionship. Take the time to play with your cat. Roll a ball, or a wad of tin foil for your cat to chase. Pet your cat and talk to your cat.
10. If your cat is destructive while you are not at home, spend time with him before you leave and when you return. Sometimes getting a second cat helps alleviate separation anxiety.
11. Some cats like attention, others like attention on their terms and still others can be very aloof. You will not be able to change your cat's personality but you can encourage him to get rid of his fears and be a bit more sociable. Be patient with your cat. Offer praise when he comes into the room or cuddles up to be petted.
12. Keep your cat indoors if possible. There are many dangers out there such as cars, dogs, and even people who think it is fun to hurt a cat.
13. Keep your cat away from your car and your neighbors' cars. In the winter, some cats seek warmth by climbing up into the undersides of cars.
14. Clean up antifreeze spills. Many cats are attracted to it and will lick it. Antifreeze is extremely dangerous for your cat.
15. Keep plants away from your cat. Many are poisonous if eaten and can make your cat very sick.
16. Check the inside of your clothes dryer, washer, dishwasher, refrigerator, etc. before you close them. Some cats like to hide in them.
There is yet another thing you can do to keep your cat healthy and happy. Love your cat and treat him like a member of the family. A cat always makes his way into your heart.
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