-
It's national adopt a cat month!More >> Before training your cat, determine how well she will respond well to training. More >> Before you pull over, good Samaritan that you are, here are some guidelines for assisting animals safely and effectively. More >> Before you pull over, good Samaritan that you are, here are some guidelines for assisting animals safely and effectively. More >> The outdoors can be a dangerous place for cats if they go unsupervised. Here are a few hazards you should be aware of before opening the door.More >> Dental disease is a problem for cats of all ages, especially older ones, and ven lead to much greater health problems than a cavity to fill here and there.More >>
-
Not only is it possible to enjoy a fun vacation with your dog, but it's also easier than ever to do so while being frugal.More >> Not only is it possible to enjoy a fun vacation with your dog, but it's also easier than ever to do so while being frugal.More >> These days, dogs are on Facebook and Twitter, and they're even "blogging" with help from their owners.More >> These days, dogs are on Facebook and Twitter, and they're even "blogging" with help from their owners.More >> Dogs are social animals, and generally don't tolerate long periods of being alone.More >> Dogs are social animals, and generally don't tolerate long periods of being alone.More >> ![iStockphoto.com / Lee Ingram]( "iStockphoto.com / Lee Ingram")
iStockphoto.com / Lee IngramSince dogs are unable to verbalize what they are really thinking, there are nonverbal cues that we can learn from and respond to accordingly.More >> Since dogs are unable to verbalize what they are really thinking, there are nonverbal cues that we can learn from and respond to accordingly.More >> Traveling with a dog can be fun, exciting and memorable, but it can also be a bit of a challenge if its idea of bathroom etiquette is finding the nearest patch of grass that smells like home.More >> Traveling with a dog can be fun, exciting and memorable, but it can also be a bit of a challenge if its idea of bathroom etiquette is finding the nearest patch of grass that smells like home.More >>
-
In recent years, veterinarians have stepped in to provide a quick, cost-effective place on the Internet for owners to have their questions answered and get solid advice no matter the time of the day.More >> In recent years, veterinarians have stepped in to provide a quick, cost-effective place on the Internet for owners to have their questions answered and get solid advice no matter the time of the day.More >> To ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life (or nine), check out these five easy steps promoting feline wellness.More >> To ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life (or nine), check out these five easy steps promoting feline wellness.More >> Cats can quickly become very attached to you, which may lead to separation anxiety.More >> Cats can quickly become very attached to you, which may lead to separation anxiety.More >> ![© Thinkstock.com]( "© Thinkstock.com")
© Thinkstock.comWho says dogs have all the fun? Cats can be just as smart, fun and full of personality.More >> Who says dogs have all the fun? Cats can be just as smart, fun and full of personality.More >> Thinking about adopting a cat? Here are five reasons why you should think about bringing home a pair instead of just one furry feline.
More >> Thinking about adopting a cat? Here are five reasons why you should think about bringing home a pair instead of just one furry feline.More >>
Although your cat may act independent and be litter-trained, he still counts on you to provide him with food, water, safe shelter, regular veterinary care, companionship, and more. Take care of these ten essentials, and you'll be guaranteed to develop a rewarding relationship with your feline companion.
- Outfit your cat with a collar and ID tag that includes your name, address, and telephone number. No matter how careful you are, there's a chance your companion may slip out the door—an ID tag greatly increases the chance that your cat will be returned home safely.
- Follow local cat registration laws. Licensing, a registration and identification system administered by some local governments, protects both cats and people in the community.
- Keep your cat indoors. Keeping your cat safely confined at all times is best for you, your pet, and your community.
- Take your cat to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. If you do not have a veterinarian, ask your local animal shelter or a pet-owning friend for a referral.
- Spay or neuter your pet. This will keep her healthier and will reduce the problem of cat overpopulation.
- Give your cat a nutritionally balanced diet, including constant access to fresh water. Ask your veterinarian for advice on what and how often to feed your pet.
- Train your cat to refrain from undesirable behaviors such as scratching furniture and jumping on countertops. Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained with a bit of patience, effort, and understanding on your part.
- Groom your cat often to keep her coat healthy, soft, and shiny. Although it is especially important to brush long-haired cats to prevent their hair from matting, even short-haired felines need to be groomed to remove as much loose hair as possible. When cats groom themselves, they ingest a great deal of hair, which often leads to hairballs.
- Set aside time to play with your cat. While cats do not need the same level of exercise that dogs do, enjoying regular play sessions with your pet will provide him with the physical exercise and mental stimulation he needs, as well as strengthen the bond you share.
- Be loyal to and patient with your cat. Make sure the expectations you have of your companion are reasonable and remember that the vast majority of behavior problems can be solved. If you are struggling with your pet's behavior, contact your veterinarian or local animal shelter for advice, and check out the HSUS's Pets for Life campaign information.
Copyright © 2002 The Humane Society of the United States. All rights reserved.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WFXG, a Raycom Media Station.
