You’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a thousand times;
Oh, you want a cat? I don’t like cats. They’re so mean, so rude. They sleep all the time, they never care. I don’t get why anyone would want to have a cat!
And every time you find someone talking along these lines, you think, “but I want to have a cat in the future. What do I do now?”
Unlike what the stereotype has led many a lot of us to believe, cats aren’t soulless creatures, neither are they the worst pets. Just like your beloved dog, cats can also be clingy, loveable and adorable. They just don’t like to show it as much. So even if you do get a little fur ball, you’ll still be able to enjoy their company.
After all, they’re cuddly, they’re sweet and they always trots around you anxiously like a mother cat whenever you have a cold.
Cats can be wonderful.
And as a future cat owner, it’s necessary that you clear out the misconceptions, learn as much as you can about their care and give your darling cat the love it deserves!
The Lowdown on Your Special Cat Friend
Cats Don’t Need Any Attention
Cats may act mysterious, but they’re not loners, neither are they anti-social. Just like your pet dog, cats can also form strong connections with their owners and can become stressed if they’re left along for a longer time. They need your love and attention.
Indoor Cats Can’t Get Sick
Not true. While indoor cats won’t likely get sick as much as outdoor cats, they’ll still need their regular vaccinations and checkups. Not to mention that even if they stay inside for a long time, they can still become sick if there’s anyone in the house has a contagious disease.
Cats Don’t Like to Exercise
Contrary to popular belief, cats don’t spend their lives sleeping! They like to exercise and play around and often respond well to mental and physical exercises, especially if their human plays alongside them.
Cats Have Nine Lives
Nope! In reality, cats only have one life, just like all living creatures. Making sure that your cat stays strong and receives all its vaccines will at least ensure that they remain healthy for a longer time.
Taking Care of Your Pet Cat – The Basics
So now you know the truth. Cats aren’t demons, or beings with nine lives. They’re cute and cuddly, and just a bit sassy.
And you want one! But wait; before you sign on the dotted line of their adoption form, here’s what you need for their welcome:
– A Welcoming Home
Your home and lifestyle should have room for a cat. Sure, cats are independent but they will still need your presence and love. If you’re too busy to give them company, you may not be ready to have a cat. However, if there are other people in the house who can attend to your cat’s grooming and health needs, then by all means, adopt one!
– Medical Preparations
If you’ve got allergies, then you might be in a world of trouble. Get yourself checked and have the cat checked as well for any medical conditions they have. For yourself, you’ll have the assurance that you won’t have an allergic reaction. As for your feline friend, knowing what medical problems they have right now will give you time to prepare.
– Appointment with the Vet
Before bringing it home, make sure to take it for immunizations and checkups. Also schedule an appointment so it can be spayed or neutered. You don’t want to be surprised with a litter of kittens one day.
– A Good Scratching Post
You’ll definitely find countless articles on DIY scratch posts for cats. But if you don’t have the time to make one yourself, invest in a good one and place it somewhere your cat will easily be able to go to, like your living room.
– Cat Supplies
A litter tray, a good bed, toys, catnip and treats – these are just the basics that your cat will need to feel comfortable in a new place.
A Debate on Declawing Cats
Unless your cat needs to be declawed for medical reasons, there’s no reason why you should go for that option.
Keep in mind that declawing cats isn’t about trimming away their claws. It’s a surgical procedure that involves the amputation of the last bone on each of their toe. And this can be very painful. Declawing can often cause pain, infections, and even back pain. It can also cause nerve damage.
But if you are worried about scratches, there are some tips you can try:
- Keep their claws trimmed so there’s no damage
- Incorporate scratching boards and posts around the house
- Get soft plastic caps (you’ll find many options online) and ask the vet if they can be glued to your cat’s nails.
Are You Ready?
Now that you know the basics, it is time to start searching for a cat!
Adopt a cat instead of buying one. If this is your first time getting a cat, get an older one. They need love too!
If you’re getting a kitten, get two so they have someone to play with.
Also, if you get an older cat, make sure to ask about its history, so you know if it’s an indoor or outdoor cats. Indoor cats are ones that stop going outside of their own free will. As such, you won’t have to worry about them not getting enough fresh air. If you get an outdoor cat though, you’ll have to make preparations accordingly. Like getting a cat flap and getting them micro-chipped so you know where they are.
And if you have a dog, don’t worry. It’s just another stereotype that dogs and cats are worst enemies. They can actually get along well. But you’ll need to find a cat that has previously lived with dogs. Otherwise, if this is a new experience for both of them, you’ll have to be cautious about introducing them. Use baby gates to keep your cat protected, and allow it to watch your dog from a distance for a while before introducing it to your pup.
Contact Twissted Whiskers!
Got a cat that needs some special attention?
Twissted Whiskers offers specialty spa services as well as a Special Care Program for cats and dogs that need medical or behavioral attention.
Contact us if you’d like to sign up your pet for our services and programs. And let us know if you have special requests!
