Did you adopt a new cat or kitten? That’s great! We are sure they are going to love their new forever home. Cat’s and Kittens are not humans and don’t eat regular human food. Some human food can be dangerous or deadly for cats and kittens. Always check with your veterinarian to make sure they are getting the proper nutrition.
Here are some tips you will find helpful, and if you have questions, please call your veterinarian or the Waverly Animal Shelter to find out more. We want to help you ensure your pet has a long, healthy and fun life.
Provide nutritious and appropriate food and clean water
Providing high quality and age appropriate food for your cat/kitten will help them stay healthy and strong. Their food should contain taurine, a necessary nutrient for cats, who are obligate carnivores (this means they are 99% meat eaters). There are also things they shouldn’t have, so be very careful what human food you share with them. You should also check to make sure your your houseplants are not poisonous for cats.
Make sure to provide fresh water and clean your cat’s bowl daily.
Maintain a clean litter box
Keeping up with your cat’s litter box is extremely important. Clean it out regularly to encourage your cat to use it, and to prevent infections and diseases. When you replace the litter, wash the box with regular dish soap, do not use cleaning products with ammonia or citrus scents.
Brush your cat regularly
Brushing your cat is fun, adorable, and beneficial for both of you! You’ll help keep your kitty clean, and reduce hairballs and shedding.
Let your cat scratch
Scratching is important for cats, so make sure they have a place to scratch. Scratching pads or posts with rough material like sisal, burlap, or bark are good materials. A fun scratching post or climbing center will help keep them from scratching your furniture.
Get necessary vaccinations
Vaccinations help protect your cat from diseases. A rabies vaccines in particular are required by law in most states and really important to keeping your cat safe. Talk with your veterinarian about cat and kitten vaccinations.
Spay or neuter your cat (at the right age)
Spaying and neutering are essential for long healthy lives for cats. It is usually recommended you spay or neuter your kitten early, but not too early, as cats can get pregnant around 4 months.
See your veterinarian on a regular basis
Schedule regular vet appointments, just like regular human doctor appointment checkups, to make sure you stay on top of your cat’s health. If you notice any strange behavior or problems, take them to your vet immediately.
Keep your cat indoors, when possible
Keeping your cat inside the house will keep them safe from a host of risks like diseases, fights, passing cars, and more. While outdoor cats have an average lifespan of 1-3 years, indoor cats can have an average lifespan of 15 years. Enjoy more time with your pet and give them a healthier, longer life by keeping them inside.