CAT TIPS
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ringing a new pet into your family is not always as easy as it sounds. Cats are no exception. While your cat may experience anxiety about its new surroundings and the new people in its life, you and your family will be learning your cat’s personality, its habits, and its behaviors. This always takes a little time, along with patience and understanding on the part of the family.
Here are a few tips which may help make all of your lives more manageable and fulfilling with your new feline family-member: THE LITTER BOX:
If your cat is “missing” the litter box, there are several easy solutions that may help. All cat litter is not the same. If you have recently changed the brand or type of cat litter you’ve been using, your kitty may not approve. Try to avoid using litter that is overly dusty or fragrant. Changing the litter more frequently may also help. If you have multiple cats, you need to have multiple litter boxes. The rule is one cat per litter box plus an overflow litter box. Location of the litter box may also be an issue. Try different locations, keeping in mind that most cats prefer a somewhat quiet, private area like a bathroom or a laundry room. You may have to try several different locations. A trip to the veterinarian may be necessary as well, to determine if there is a medical issue. If your cat is not spayed or neutered, now is the time to get that done.
8457 W. Lake Mead Blvd. Store Hours: Mon-Fri
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656-1700
9am-7pm • Sat ~ 9am-6pm • Sun ~10am-5pm
(Corner of Lake Mead and Rampart in the Pueblo Center, next to Red Rock Pzza)
Limit one per customer. Expires 10/31/12.
SCRATCHING/SHARPENING CLAWS: Cats that are sharpening their claws in undesirable places (like your furniture), may need their cat trees and scratch pads relocated. Cats like to be high up, with the ability to stretch both horizontally and vertically. They like to be in view of what is happening at all times, so their cat trees and perches should be where your family spends time together. Cats may be independent but they do love being part of the family. If your cat continues to scratch in undesirable places try using a squirt bottle or double-sided tape to deter that behavior. Nail caps can also be used to help protect belongings and still allow your cat to do what comes natural. See www.softclaws.com for more information. NEW BABY: The addition of a new baby into your family will be an adjustment for everyone, your cat included. After given some time to adjust, this can be a beneficial time for your child and cat to learn the importance of gentleness and trust together. Additionally, exposure to cats at a young age can help a child develop resistance to allergens and asthma. MOVING: It is important that you plan ahead when looking for a new place. You need to ask the right questions to determine if all members of your family will be welcome in the new home – including your cat. When looking for a new home, ask if pets are allowed before signing a lease. Most places allow pets but may require a security deposit. Once you have gotten through some of the rough spots, you will be rewarded with years of love and companionship. When given the chance, your cat can become a wonderful family member.
Donovan allfurloveanimalsociety.org• foster@allfurloveanimalsociety.org Las Vegas Pet Scene Magazine • September/October 2012
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