How to raise cats

Cat Care

Although raising cats is an enjoyable experience for many people, it requires meeting several essential needs, including the following:

Nutrition

Cats should be provided with a good diet based on several factors such as age, activity level, and health condition. A veterinarian can help assess the cat and determine the best dietary plan. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times, with the water bowl regularly cleaned and maintained. If a cat shows signs of appetite loss, diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy for more than two days, a vet should be consulted to diagnose and treat the issue.

Hygiene

Cats are naturally good at keeping themselves clean, but regular grooming and brushing are recommended. This helps maintain their cleanliness, reduces shedding, and minimizes the occurrence of hairballs.

Proper Handling

When picking up a cat, one hand should be placed behind its front legs and the other under its hindquarters. Cats should never be lifted by the neck or front legs alone.

Living Environment

To protect cats from infectious diseases, fleas, dogs, traffic, and other dangers, they should be kept indoors in a clean, dry, and warm area. Regular cleaning of their living space contributes to their longevity.

Litter Box

To maintain household cleanliness, cats should have a litter box placed in an accessible location. The box should not be moved unless necessary, and even then, gradually. It must be cleaned daily, as cats avoid using a dirty or foul-smelling litter box.

Healthcare

A veterinarian should be consulted immediately if a cat appears ill or injured. Regular vet visits, at least once a year, are necessary for routine checkups and vaccinations.

Identification Tag

If taking a cat outdoors, it is recommended to use a safety collar with an identification tag to ensure its return if lost.

Healthy Practices in Cat Care

Since cats can transmit diseases and microbes to humans, certain hygiene practices should be followed:

• Washing hands with soap and water after handling or playing with a cat and after cleaning the litter box.
• Wearing gloves when gardening in areas where cats roam.
• Keeping cats indoors and away from stray animals.
• Training cats to use their litter box.
• Taking cats for regular vet visits to prevent disease transmission.

Common Mistakes in Cat Care

Many first-time cat owners make mistakes, including:

• Neglecting Claw Trimming: Cats have sharp claws that need regular trimming. Overgrown claws can be painful if not worn down naturally. Declawing is illegal in some countries and should be avoided. The best time to trim claws is when a cat is relaxed or just waking up from deep sleep.

• Buying Cheap, Inappropriate Cat Food: Some cheap foods lack essential nutrients. A cat’s diet should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates to prevent obesity and related health issues.

• Ignoring Veterinary Care: Any signs of illness should be addressed promptly. Early detection and treatment prevent diseases from worsening and reduce medical expenses.

• Overfeeding: Cats should be given only the necessary amount of food to avoid obesity. Dietary needs vary based on age and health condition.

• Skipping Routine Health Checks: Regular vet visits help detect hidden health issues. Checkups typically include:

  • Fur examination
  • Ear inspection
  • Dental check
  • Eye health check
  • Skin examination
  • Weight assessment
  • Blood tests

Benefits of Cat Ownership

Owning a cat offers several psychological and social benefits, including:

• Reducing stress and promoting relaxation
• Enhancing a sense of youthfulness, activity, and responsibility
• Bringing joy and laughter to the household
• Teaching children lessons in trust, empathy, love, and care
• Lowering the risk of asthma and allergies in children exposed to pets at an early age, according to studies from the UK and the US

Drawbacks of Cat Ownership

While cats bring joy, they also come with some challenges:

• Excessive Shedding: Requires regular cleaning.
• Litter Box Odor: Can be unpleasant and requires frequent cleaning.
• Scratching Furniture: Cats have a natural urge to scratch. A scratching post can help minimize furniture damage.
• Fear of Cats (Ailurophobia): Some visitors may avoid homes with cats.
• Veterinary Costs: Regular checkups and treatments can be expensive.
• Hunting Instincts: Cats may bring small prey into the house.
• Stubbornness: Cats are independent and may not always follow commands.
• Accidental Scratches and Bites: Playful interactions can lead to scratches or bites.
• Frequent Vomiting: Cleaning up cat vomit can be a common task.
• Disruptive Behavior: Cats may wake their owners early in the morning or during the night.