26
Oct
Are you a new owner of a feline friend? Congratulations! You’re about to embark on one of the most rewarding relationships you’ll ever have. These little creatures are not only adorable and fun to have around, but they also make great companions.
Of course, before you can fully enjoy your new furry friend, there are a few things you need to take care of first. Much like any other pet, cats require some basic supplies and care to ensure a well-rounded upbringing and a happy, healthy life.
While every cat is unique and therefore has unique needs, there are several universal items that felines rely on for a comfortable life. You don’t necessarily need to get all of these things before bringing your cat home, but it’s a good idea to have them on hand so you’re prepared.
Naturally, the first thing your cat will need is food. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that their bodies are designed to digest and use animal-based proteins. They have little to no ability to digest plant-based proteins, so a diet that consists mostly of grains and vegetables is not ideal.
For the most part, delicious wet cat food will provide your feline friend with all the nutrients they need. It’s basically like a gourmet meal for them, and it’s packed with moisture to keep their delicate kidneys healthy.
This dish is normally prepared at high temperatures to kill any potential bacteria and ensure sterilisation, often mixed with a small amount of carbohydrate-rich ingredients like rice or pasta. The end result is a highly nutritious, flavourful meal that your cat will love.
Additionally, wet cat food can have different textures, which is great for cats that prefer a little variety in their diet. For instance, some meals have chunks or shreds of meat, resulting in a more substantial texture, while others are smooth and creamy.
Of course, every feline is different, which inherently means that not all kinds of cat food will be equally loved or enjoyed. You may have to try a few different types and flavours of wet cat food before you find the perfect fit for your pet’s individual palate.
Dry food is another option, but it’s not nearly as popular among cats. This is because dry food lacks moisture, which can lead to dehydration if it’s the only type of food your kitty eats.
Additionally, dry food is often made with plant-based proteins, which as mentioned previously, are not easily digestible for kitties. As a result, it’s not as nutritionally dense as wet food and should only be used as a supplement.
And, don’t forget giving your cat tasty treats has a wealth of benefits, both for their health and for your relationship. Not only will it make them happy, but it will also give you a chance to bond with your little friend.
In addition to food, getting plenty of liquids is essential for all animals, and cats are no exception. In fact, they need even more water than dogs because they are smaller and have a higher metabolism.
To make sure your pet stays hydrated, you should have at least one water bowl for them. It’s a good idea to place it in a location that’s easily accessible so they can drink whenever they’re thirsty. Some models even have automatic water dispensers that help keep the bowl filled, which is great if you’re not always around to do it yourself.
Potty training a cat is actually pretty simple. These creatures are naturally clean and have a natural desire to relieve themselves in an appropriate spot. Place a litter box in a designated area (away from the food and water bowls) and see how easily it becomes their bathroom. This saves you the trouble of having to house-train them like you would a puppy.
The classic litter box is by far the most favoured option, and it couldn’t be simpler to use. All you need is a box filled with an absorbent material like sand, clay, or wood pellets. Your cat will instinctively know what to do when they need to go.
Much like dogs, cats need to be groomed on a regular basis. This helps remove any loose hair or dirt, and it also feels good for them. It’s particularly important to groom kitties that have long hair, as they’re more likely to get matted if they’re not regularly brushed.
If you intend to take on this responsibility yourself, you’ll need a few key supplies. Firstly, you’ll need a good-quality brush that’s specifically designed for felines. These usually have shorter, finer bristles than dog brushes, which is ideal for getting through a kitty’s thick fur.
In addition to a brush, you’ll also need some shampoo that’s gentle enough for a cat’s sensitive skin. It’s a good idea to avoid human shampoo as this can irritate their skin and cause dryness or itchiness.
You’re bound to travel with your new companion at some point, whether it’s to the vet or on a family vacation. In these situations, you’ll need a carrier that’s comfortable and spacious enough for your cat.
Look for something that has plenty of ventilation so they don’t feel claustrophobic, and make sure it’s easy to open and close. It should also have a handle or strap so you can carry it without difficulty.
When it comes to pastimes, few things give cats more pleasure than scratching. They just can’t help it – it feels good and helps them keep their claws healthy. Unfortunately, this often results in ruined furniture.
The best way to protect your furnishings is to provide your cat with a designated scratching post. These are tall posts that are covered in rough material, such as rope or bark. Most kitties take to them immediately and leave the precious sofa alone.
Apart from scratching about, kitties love to play as it keeps them occupied and stimulates their minds. Depending on their personality, some prefer to chase after things while others prefer to swat at them.
Get a few different kinds of toys and see which ones they take to. You could try a simple ping pong ball, a set of toy mice, or even a feather on a string. The toys themselves should be tough enough to withstand a few bites and scratches.
