Last Updated: 4 months ago
There are many pros and cons to having a cat as a pet.
Some people believe that cats are independent and low-maintenance, while others find them aloof and temperamental.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to adopt a feline friend is a personal one.
What to Know Before Getting a Cat
If you are thinking about adopting a cat, then there are a few problems that you can face if you decide to bring one home.
1. Litter box training
One of the most important things you will need to do when you get a cat is to litter box train them. This can be a tricky process, and there are a few things that can go wrong.
Here are five problems you may encounter while litter box training your cat.
- Your cat may not take to the litter box right away. It may take a few tries before they get used to it.
- Your cat may not like the type of litter you’re using. Be sure to try a few different types before giving up.
- Your cat may start using the bathroom outside of the box. This is usually because something is wrong with the litter box, such as it being too dirty or too small.
- You may not be able to find a litter box that your cat likes. Again, try a few different types before giving up.
- You may have to put the litter box in a place that’s not convenient for you. Keep in mind that your cat’s needs come first, and they may not be able to use the bathroom in a place that’s convenient for you.
2. Destructive scratching
One of the first things you need to do when you get a cat is provide them with an appropriate scratching post or surface.
If you don’t, they will find one on their own, and it’s likely to be your couch, chairs, wooden floors, or door frames.
Scratching is a perfectly natural behavior for cats; it helps them stretch and sharpen their claws.
It’s also a great way for them to mark their territory and leave their scent. But it can be very destructive, not to mention costly to repair.
Cats usually scratch for one of two reasons: either they’re trying to remove the dead outer layer of their claws or they’re marking their territory.
Either way, it’s important to provide them with an alternative scratching surface that is more acceptable to you.
Cat trees, scratching posts, and even cardboard scratchers can all help satisfy your cat’s natural urge to scratch.
3. Feeding and nutrition
If you have never owned a cat before, you may not be aware of the special dietary needs of these animals. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require animal protein to survive.
This can make them very picky eaters, and you may have to experiment with different types of food before you find one that your cat enjoys. Another issue that you will have to deal with is nutrition.
Cats require more protein and fat than dogs or humans, so it is important to make sure that they are getting enough of these nutrients in their diet.
You may also need to supplement their diet with vitamins and minerals if they are not getting enough from your food.
Finally, you will need to be careful about what kinds of treats you give your cat.
Many commercially available cat treats are high in calories and fat, which can cause weight gain and other health problems.
So, it is important to choose healthy treats that are low in calories and fat but still provide your cat with the nutrients they need.
4. Grooming
Cats are notoriously clean animals, and they spend a large amount of time grooming themselves. However, this doesn’t mean that they don’t need our help from time to time.
Long-haired cats, in particular, require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles from forming in their fur.
Short-haired cats also benefit from being brushed, as it helps distribute their natural oils evenly throughout their coat.
In addition to regular brushing, you will also need to trim your cat’s nails on a regular basis.
If you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself, most vets and groomers offer this service.
Finally, you will need to deal with your cat’s litter box. It is important to clean it out regularly to prevent any buildup of bacteria or odors.
5. Health and Safety
Cats are carnivores and need to eat meat to stay healthy. This can pose a problem if you’re not used to handling raw meat.
You’ll also need to make sure that your cat has access to fresh water at all times.
Another health hazard to be aware of is that cats can easily contract diseases from other animals, including other cats, dogs, and even rodents and birds.
These diseases can range from mild to deadly, so it’s important to keep your cat up-to-date on vaccinations and take them to the vet for regular check-ups.
You can get insurance for your cat so that the vaccination and checkup bills are taken care of without you worrying about them.
You must check the policy first before signing it. You should know what conditions are covered by the insurance and what are not, so that it does not become a problem later.
Safety is also a concern when you have a cat. Because they are small and agile, cats can easily escape from your home and get lost or injured outdoors.
Additionally, cats’ sharp claws can pose a threat to both you and your furniture.
To keep your cat safe (and your home in one piece), it’s important to provide them with a scratching post or cat tree where they can exercise their natural scratching instincts.
Wrap-Up
Welcoming a cat into your life is a rewarding experience. By understanding their needs, preparing your home, and committing to their care, you can ensure a loving and lasting bond.
Remember, each cat is unique, so be patient, adaptable, and always ready for the surprises and joys that a feline friend can bring into your world.
Now, you’re well-equipped to embark on this wonderful journey of cat companionship. Here’s to the happiness and purrs that await you!
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Olfa knows how to get things done and has a keen business sense that others admire. She’s always on the go, coming up with new ideas! Her ability to anticipate the needs of her readers and deliver information that they want is what makes CatVills such a success. She loves cuddling her cat Picaciu. He is her inspiration.