Cats for Dummies (For Dummies Series)

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You've taken everything into account: Your home. Your time. Your finances. A cat is in your future, beyond a doubt, but what kind?

Remember, too, that what’s a fault in the eyes of some is a virtue in the eyes of others. The overexuberant affection of a bouncy big dog isn’t for everyone, believe us. We hasten to add that while most cats aren’t as overtly interactive as dogs, some really are happiest when in your face, and it’s not unheard of to have a cat who likes to play fetch.

A lot of different elements (about 60) go into keeping your cat healthy. These nutrients each play a role in keeping your cat’s body functioning well. The following sections explain the most important components of the feline diet. Protein, essential for a cat’s diet This is either caused by a cat’s body not producing enough insulin or failing to respond to the insulin that’s being produced. Untreated diabetes can lead to hyperglycemia or elevated blood sugar levels. If you notice that your cat is lethargic, is losing weight, has a change in appetite, or has breath that smells sweeter than usual, those are all possible symptoms of diabetes. Some cats, including those with joint problems, may benefit from a food with added supplements, like glucosamine. Or you can buy these separately and add them to their food as required. Be aware of the need for boosters beyond the initial kitten series. The law dictates what must be followed for rabies in each state. Discuss your cat’s lifestyle, including if she’s allowed outside, or has any other potential means of interaction with other cats, or dogs or wild animals. This will determine which vaccines your cat needs to protect her health.

Coyotes: A well-fed cat is a tasty temptation to wild predators such as coyotes. And you don’t need to live in a rural area: Coyotes have been found even in Manhattan and are common in many other urban areas. Cats also need grooming, and some longhaired breeds have high-maintenance coats. Make sure that whichever breed you choose, you can keep up with their grooming requirements. That might be a daily brush or a biweekly one. Curiosity killed the cat is a saying that has been around for years, but it’s not curiosity that hurts so many cats: Misinformation and unrealistic expectations are far bigger threats. The cat chose domestication on her own terms and chose our companionship the same way. We’re only now starting to understand fully what a wonderful gift we’ve been offered. From Humble Beginnings: How Cats Became So Popular Try to limit exposure to other allergens. Avoid cleaning solutions, aerosol products, cigarette smoke, and strong perfumes and consider using a mask while doing yard work and housework, especially at the height of the pollen season. Better yet: Get someone else to mow the lawn, do the vacuuming, and clean the litter box. Again, keeping all allergies under control can help your body handle your cat more easily.In fact, as we will later learn, it is truly impossible to physically conduct Schrödinger’s cat experiment, even if we wanted to. That being said, pleaseunder no circumstances attempt to conduct this experiment. Your cat is counting on you, and we know that if we help you — and we’ve written this book to do exactly that — you and your cat will both be so much happier. Icons Used in This Book One other thing made the transition of the cat from pest control to pet possible — or, rather, one person: Edward Lowe, the inventor of Kitty Litter.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FelV). This transmissible virus weakens the immune system and can cause a range of secondary illnesses. Some cats may show no signs, but symptoms including jaundice, respiratory infections, fever, and loss of appetite can sometimes be present. A vaccine is available, and it’s recommended to speak to your vet about whether to vaccinate your cat. There’s a great amount of choice when it comes to what to feed your cat. Some cats may prefer canned wet food, others will like kibble, and still others will enjoy both. The most important thing is to choose a food with real meat as the first ingredient and an overall high percentage of protein. If your cat has a specific health condition, then prescription diets are available. Unquestionably, cats are easy-keepers. But anyone who adopts a cat thinking that cats are like houseplants, just more furry, is in for a big surprise. Kittens and cats seek and need attention and affection. They also need both preventive and routine care for any number of common ailments. Behavior problems such as litter-box avoidance are more common than most people think. To care for your cat well, you need a few basic supplies, a high-quality diet, and a veterinarian you know well enough to ask the questions you need answers to if problems arise, and who can help you establish a preventive-care plan to catch and prevent disease. Things You Need Before Bringing Home a Cat - even if you've already brought home your new cat, it's never too late to listen to this podcast and get the things you need: https://www.catbehaviorsolutions.org/podcast/episode/4683266c/10-things-you-need-before-bringing-home-a-cat

Rehoming an older cat from a shelter is an excellent way to find a cat that’s already housetrained and in need of a loving home. Shelters also often have kittens for adoption. The shelter staff will be able to tell you more about each cat and whether they may be a good fit for your home environment. you can also choose a new cat based on whether they’re used to dogs, prefer to live indoors, and are happy being left at home while you’re at work. A cat can go without eating for weeks if need be (please don’t test this fact though), but without water, she’ll die in days. Adult cats offer some compelling advantages and few disadvantages — the most serious disadvantage being simply that they aren’t as baby cute as kittens! We want you to know that it’s worthwhile to take the time to learn about your cat, and about caring for your cat properly. You’ll understand why if you consider that a well-cared-for cat can be your loving companion for more than 15 years and that many cats live happily and healthily even beyond that milestone. These years are a gift; make them count! Most of these abandoned cats join the sorry ranks of the free-roaming unowned— or are taken to the shelter to be euthanized. Photo depicts the cat seeking for any companionship, although they can seem distant at times.