Cat Lovers

Caring for Cats

Caring for cats is not that difficult or demanding although it helps if you know a few basic principles. By agreeing to share your home with a cat or cats then you are taking on a big responsibility.

I quite deliberately said share a home rather than own a cat, as anyone who has had cats previously will know, you may own a dog but you never own a cat, They are like children, they will allow you to give them love, care and affection but they will never let you own them.

Also just like children cats can get bored very easily. This is especially true of kittens and younger cats. If you are one of those people who spends the majority of daylight hours out of the house this can make this even worse.

One of the big complaints people have about cats is the fact that they are liable to scratch the furniture and fittings of your home. This is in part due to boredom and also a desire to sharpen their claws.

If your cat starts to scratch the furniture you should be firm and shout something like “no” and then take them to somewhere where they are permitted to sharpen their claws. This could be a tree in the garden or a special scratching post that you have purchased or made. You should take their front paws and show them what you want them to do. Cats are normally pretty bright and will catch on pretty quickly.

If you visit your local pet store you will find books on the subject of caring for cats. You will also find a whole host of toys and furniture designed to keep your cat amused and entertained. The trouble is that until you have purchased them you will never know what will work for your cat and what will not. I have spent an absolute fortune on a climbing frame adorned with some mind bending attachments and was my cat interested? Not one little bit; however, a ping pong ball costing a few pence will keep him amused for hours.

If it is possible it is always advisable to fit a cat door to allow your pet access into and out of the house when they want. This will do a great deal to alleviate a cats boredom and it is lovely to look out of your window and see you cat sunning itself in the garden.

When a cat comes into your life you should be prepared to spend time each day with your pet. You should talk, groom and pet them on a regular basis because despite their often aloof nature a cat is just like the rest of us and needs a little love. Caring for cats is as simple as that.