Will a cat change my lifestyle?
You will need to think carefully before getting a cat as it is a real commitment. You’ll need to make time for play, grooming and bonding - fuss, make sure that your new cat or kitten doesn’t become a nuisance to neighbours, ensure arrangements are made for his care when you go on holiday and be prepared for him to display his or her natural instincts. Need the benefits of ownership as a baIance
What are my legal obligations?
It is a legal requirement that all cats (and dogs) must be registered by 3 months of age with the relevant local council and that the animal be micro-chipped for the purposes of legislation. It is compulsory in some council areas and highly recommended by the Cat Protection Society, that cats are de-sexed (registered breeders exemption can be obtained) by three months of age. Some councils also have by laws relating to cat curfews and confinements. You should always check with your with your local council to find out what particular rules and by laws apply in your local area before taking on a cat as a pet so that you are being a responsibIe cat owner and not setting yourself up for a fine or penalty.
How to I toilet train my new cat or kitten?
Cats are naturally clean animals but a new kitten will need to be shown to how to use the litter tray correctly. Start by getting a litter tray and filling it with cat litter. Keep the tray in the same place, a place where the kitten can easily get to. Make sure the tray is regularly cleaned and placed as to allow the kitten privacy.
Start taking the kitten to the litter tray after every meal and when he or she wakes up from a sleep so that you establish a routine. Wiping the kitten’s bottom with a moist tissue can encourage toileting to take place. (This action mimics the mother cat licking the kitten’s bottom to get him or her to use the toilet). It is best if the Iitter tray and the kitten are in a smaII area such as a spare bedroom to begin with as a kitten can become Iost in a Iarge house and not make it to the tray on time.
What is the best way to hold my cat?
It is best to put one hand under the chest and supporting the rest of the cat’s weight with your other hand. Kittens in particular must be handled gently as their bones are fragile. Contrary to the popular myth, picking up a cat by the scruff of the neck can hurt them.
How can I stop my cat from getting worms?
Theere are two most common types of worms that can infect cats are roundworms and tapeworms. Most cats will have to deal with roundworms at some point in their lives and the infection often goes unnoticed. It is advisable to treat for roundworms in adult cats and kittens. Tapeworms are more likely to be noticed as tapeworm segments are passed in cat faeces and will cling to the cats legs. Often the cream coloured dry segments look like grains of rice. Veterinary surgeries offer a range of treatments for both tapeworms and roundworms. Consult your vet about putting in place a preventative treatment.
How do I stop my cat getting fleas?
Fleas often affect cats, even meticulously clean ones, because the eggs can survive in the environment for a very long time. Fleas can be present all year round especially in milder climates. The good news is that they are easily prevented and treated using the very effective flea treatments now available from vets.
How do I spot ear mites?
An infected cat or kitten will scratch his ears, shake his head and sometimes damage the skin on his ears and temples. Ear mites live on dead skin, inside the ear and brown wax will be seen in the outer ear. Treatment is required to eliminate them so it is best to take your cat to the vet.
