Don’t base your decisions on the cute kitties in the cat food commercials. Our … Find out the signs of kidney failure in cats and why cat kidney disease is so common among felines. If you’re planning to become a new cat owner (or, as we like to think of it here at Chewy, cat parent), you’re probably looking forward to the joy of having a new creature in your house. In order to make it a smooth relationship, you need to know what are the first time cat owner checklist.. To ensure that your cat is properly cared for, take some time to study the best cat … Mostly with their face, sometimes with their sides [and] rear. Five tips for the first time cat owner – Read cat food labels. “[Cats] will start racing around the house for no apparent reason whatsoever,” says Jenn Corsun, manager of Cat World at Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah. Foods that are ideal for controlling your cat… If you’ve recently decided to adopt a cat for the very first time… Just like it’s important for people to know what they’re putting in their bodies, you should be vigilant when it comes to reading the nutrition labels on cat food. Like welcoming any new member to the family, there is some preparation that needs to be done. If you don’t want them to do something, just don’t make it available to them. First Time Cat Owner Guide 1. “And it provides your feline friend with a happy vet visit that doesn’t involve any injections.”. If you’d prefer your cat not do this, you can cover the sinks when you’re not at home or you can try training them using positive reinforcement. I hope this video was helpful. “That’s what they do when they nurse,” says Borns-Weil. In the wild, cats climb trees to safely observe their surroundings. Why Do My Kittens Sneeze And Have Watery Eyes. Grooming. Although you might not think of if that way, scratching is also a marking behavior. “You need to think about your lifestyle and match the cat’s tendencies to your lifestyle,” says Lana Fraley Rich, a Dallas-based cat behaviorist. Cats acclimate at different paces, some getting comfortable in only a few days, others staying skittish for a few weeks. Never in my life did I think I would become a first time cat owner, but a year ago during quarantine I pulled the trigger and finally purchased a Highland Lynx. Marking is usually something only associated with dogs, but cats also do this. Likewise, you’ll want to try to put a stop to any “inappropriate” behavior. (Besides Super Gross, That Is), What To Expect During Your Kitten’s First Vet Visit, Dog Training: Stop Your Dog from Going Potty on the Patio. Drinking trough and feeder. “They like to explore,” says Borns-Weil. You can choose from canned, freeze-dried, dry or homemade recipes. Read Our Ultimate Guide for New Cat Owners, What Is Flea Dirt? “When they’re reaching up to scratch, they’re releasing stress in their shoulders and they’re leaving their scent.”. Are you a dog owner who plans to have a new baby? Choosing your new cat’s food is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a first time cat owner. “You want to entirely discourage any kind of inappropriate play early on,” says Borns-Weil. Keep a brush available to … But what is flea dirt, really? Borns-Weil says she once laid a mat down on top of her fridge so her cat had a place to rest. The Ultimate First-Time Cat Owner Guide Furry Friends. “They’re at this stage in life where play is really important to them or their development. She says it’s key that new cat owners don’t accidentally end up encouraging this behavior if it’s something they’d rather avoid. Adopting a cat is a lot like dating—there’s a perfect match out there for everyone, but it helps to know what you’re looking for. Depositing scent, marking things that are there, including you.”. Owning a cat for the first time is a pretty exciting life event. Cats sleep a lot, but you don’t really have to provide them with a special bed. You’ve made it through our first cat owner’s guide, so now it’s time to celebrate by getting a cat! There’s no such thing as a cat who doesn’t scratch. How Puzzle Toys Can Combat Pet Cabin Fever, A Beginner’s Guide to Grooming a Dog With Clippers at Home, Say ‘I Woof You’ With These Valentine’s Day Gifts for Dogs and Dog Lovers, Less Shedding? Is your cat lonely? “The rule of thumb is one extra litter box [per] the number of cats in the house. Read Our Ultimate Guide for New Cat Owners. “This is a great way to get to know your vet before you need to know them,” says Parsons. Corsun calls these nighttime antics the “zoomies.”. Just be patient, and let him get used to things at his pace. As a cat owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your pet is spayed or neutered and do your part to help address the cat overpopulation issue. “Cats have a natural need to scratch and release tension,” says Rich. Cats also urine mark just like dogs do. Our feline friends make excellent roommates—they’re great listeners, exceptionally tidy and rarely hog the remote. It’s usually referred kneading, or “making muffins,” since it resembles this. Although there aren’t predators in your living room, kids, dogs, loud noises and your annoying neighbor count. Always be prepared for your pet with paperwork, photos, and more. You want to provide tons of opportunity for that predatory play,” says Borns-Weil. “Many people think, ‘Oh, we don’t have time for a dog—let’s get an easy pet, let’s just get a cat,’” says Rich. “They’ll hang out outside a hole or be ready to pounce. Needless to say, I have never looked back. Congratulations! … Do not force the cat to be in the same room with humans if it is scared. She’s spotted glove toys with pom-poms attached on the fingers on store shelves and recommends avoiding them. Cats can be prone to what new owners might describe as “weird behavior” (think: leaping up on counters, running wild in the dead of the night or playing in boxes). “They love running water [but] don’t necessarily like to be in the water,” says Corsun “They’ll sit in the sink for no reason.”. “No matter how many expensive toys that you buy them, [cats] would rather play with your shoe laces, the box that the toy came in,” says Corsun. In order to communicate best with our pets, we must learn the nuances of their body language and signaling. You don’t have to take your cat for daily walks, but that doesn’t mean he’s content to lounge on the couch all day. If your cat spends the first couple weeks hiding under your bed, don’t worry. This would be a mistake—although they are generally easy-going roomies, cats can be picky about their bathrooms. Before you bring home your new BFF, check out these expert tips for first-time cat owners. 2. “The cat will be happiest if you can provide an environment with your cat where it gets to do what cats do.”. Even a naturally calm cat can be stressed by a new environment. Clear some space off a bookshelf, create a clear path to the top of the fridge, or … Do you know how to cat-proof your house before kitty arrives? But if you’re a first-time cat owner, be prepared for a few surprises. But rest assured, these behaviors are typical. That said, cats do require some special supplies, preparations and long-term considerations. There have been tons and tons of research and random YouTube videos sharing facts that state that having a cat reduces stress and basically helps keep your mind grounded most especially at times like these. Borns-Weil says the scratching post should be tall enough so the cat can reach it when they are standing on their back legs. “For a scratching post to work, it should be one that shreds up.”. One of the most interesting times in my life was when I was a first-time cat owner. Be warned, first-time cat owners: You might want to close the door when you’re showering. “The most problems I see with new cats entering the home tend to revolve around toileting habits,” says Dr. Belinda Parsons, an Australia-based veterinarian. Kitten care 101: essential kitten care pet items to have in your home Dr. Wilde weights in on key necessary pet care items to consider –. To help him adjust more comfortably, Parsons recommends aFeliway diffuser, which dispensesan odorless vapor that mimics feline facial pheromone. Different cats will have different preferences when it comes to the details, but in general, you’ll want a nice, roomy litter box and unscented litter. 6. “Cats will rub up on everything. Find out about the process of spaying a... Help diagnose your sick dog by understanding common dog flu and dog cold symptoms. Here is our first time cat owner… or if your just interested in learning about taking care of a cat. “Provide natural places where they can hide. Just as you wouldn’t want to use an unflushed toilet, your cat won’t take kindly to an unscooped box. Here are the best dog training tips... What do you do when your dog chooses the wrong place to potty outside? Congratulations! Try to keep things quiet, and allow the cat to do all the approaching as much as possible. Prepare a list of any questions you have about caring for a cat, and schedule future wellness and vaccination visits while you’re there. First-time cat owners can try buying a cat condo or tree so your cat can sit up high and watch the environment. Before looking at any individual cats, research what breeds might be best-suited to your home. They’re intrigued by the idea of not being down on the floor and vulnerable.”. A Guide for First-Time Cat Owners. Corsun is responsible for about 550 cats at the shelter and currently has eight cats at home. Comfy bed. If you're a first-time cat owner, expect your cat to go a little haywire in the middle of night. Things You Thought You Knew: First Time Cat Owner Guide | Cat Care 101. It will help them burn off energy and hopefully keep them asleep throughout the night. The same goes for cats. “Take them down from the sink, put them down on the floor, give them a treat or extra attention. If you got your kitten from a rescue center or breeder, ask if the kitten has been weaned and the type of food that she likes.Most cat owners … Corsun recommends new cat owners buy their cat a scratching post to give them a toy. They’re going to make their own fun.”. Grooming: Short hair cats should be brushed once a week; medium to long hair cats twice a week. Spaying or neutering will help prevent … Pet Central explores possible causes of a kitten's sneezing and watery eyes, including conjunctivitis and feline herpes. Look for something tall enough that a full-grown cat can stretch out on, and make sure it’s plenty sturdy—one of the alluring things about your couch is that it doesn’t move, unlike flimsy scratching posts. Corsun also recommends new cat owners ensure their bookshelves are secured to the wall so a cat won’t injure themselves or knock over a shelf. “ I see plenty of well-meaning owners feeding their cats on demand. If you want to protect your furniture from claws, invest in a proper scratching post, she says. First-time cat owners have to be ready to play with their cats, says Borns-Weil. Yes, Please! Playing with your cat: 10 things every cat owner should know cat-toys. They won’t necessarily play with the things that you want them to play with. “They will chase bugs and mice. Monica Weymouth is a writer, editor and certified Weird Animal Lady. Some can even leap high on your counters or on your book shelves. “Kittens are very playful. “A lot of vet hospitals and adoption centers use them to help relax cats in the clinic, boarding or rescue setting,” she says. “They love to be on top of things and up high surveying down, where they feel most safe and comfortable,” says Borns-Weil. “Place it in the area where your cat will spend most of their time, and it will help to settle them into their new home quickly.”. If you’re adopting, speak to the shelter staff who care for the cats—they know who’s laidback, who’s always ready to play, and who shares your love for ‘90s R&B. Hand play. But you need to do that every single time,” says Corsun. Borns-Weil says intact males are more likely to engage in this behavior, but neutered cats do it, too. PetMD shares 10 tips for cat owners: 1. First time cat owner's guide. Stefanie Dyga Updated November 19, 2020. Kneading refers to when cats press their paws and claws into you in a somewhat affectionate way. Litter tray or box. And above all, keep it clean—as in very, very clean. Choosing a vet. Consider buying a laser pointer, chasing toys, fishing toys or cat toys with feathers on the ends. Many cats love playing or hiding inside boxes. “But cats need activity every single day—if you don’t give them something to hunt, they’ll find something, and it might be your ankles.”. Sleeping Arrangements. If your home doesn’t have room for a cat tree, get creative with lookout points you already have, advises Rich. If you’ve never had a cat before, you might assume you can simply buy a litter box, toss it in the basement and call it a day. Avoid any high-traffic or noisy areas of the home (if their designated bathroom isn’t peaceful, cats will find a more comfortable place to attend to business), Parsons says. It’s easy to rotate those items and you won’t have to pay for them. Here are eight behaviors new cat owners should expect and ways you can cope with them to make life easier for you and your cat: If you think cats are low maintenance, easy pets, think again. First time cat owner guide Things to get for your new cat or kitten before you bring them home. It’s just that they’re having that kind of happy, positive bonding experience.”. Cats that live primarily outdoors or both indoors and outdoors are subjected to risks like diseases from other cats or wild animals, vehicle traffic, dog or wild animal attacks, or … Your Guide to the Best Dog Brushes to Groom Your Pet, Which 2021 Grammy-Nominated Artist Is Your Pet? Work with your vet to rule out medical or … If your home doesn’t have room for a cat tree, get creative with lookout points you already have, advises Rich. The next visit might be more hectic. Some will climb into cabinets or squeeze in very tiny spaces. Before your new cat comes home for the first time, make sure to gather a few vital supplies. If there was plate of warm brownies on the kitchen table all day, you might have a hard time maintaining your weight. But what if you still don’t have a cat… “If they leap out at you when you’re walking by you don’t want to interact. If you’re a first time cat owner or are thinking of joining over 200 million cat parents (please adopt, don’t shop) then you know owning a cat (in reality, it’s the cat-owning you) is a huge responsibility and things can get overwhelming.. And be aware of where you place it.”. For new cat parents, it may seem impossible to communicate with your new, shy friend. So, you’ve finally decided to add a cat to the family. How to really be there during this difficult time. But if it’s a biological or genetic need, then you want to provide them with opportunities.”. “Cats need vertical space to feel secure and calm.”. Here are a few tips on cat behavior to make cat … Head to your local pet store or an online retailer to purchase, at minimum: A warm box, basket or … And, according to Borns-Weil, it’s due to their natural predatory behavior. You can’t stop your dog from chewing, but you can control what she chews. Before you adopt, make sure that your … We take pride in our research and may earn a commission for purchases made using our links. Take care not to … The only thing she doesn’t advise? “Scent is very important to them,” says Corsun. If you have more questions about cat care, make a list of your concerns and … Otherwise, you cat might try to sneak in with you. What to Do or Say When a Friend's Pet Passes Away. by Sam Salvati - 7/1/20. Researching and choosing … For a more interactive dinner, Parsons recommends food puzzles that make cats work for their food as they would in the wild. Cats are indeed independent by nature, but they're not quite able to take care of themselves. It was fascinating to observe the mysterious feline behaviors and watch the growth, interests, athletic abilities, eating patterns, play patterns, and sleeping patterns of cats, as well as the affectionate nature of cats. “It’s not that they’re trying to nurse [you] when they do it. Free cats make many small meals throughout the day, therefore, the ideal set up is that... 2. Own… You’ve probably heard about the gross stuff pests can leave behind on your pet. First-time cat owners can try buying a cat condo or tree so your cat can sit up high and watch the environment. Cats are truly fascinating animals. Anything you and your cat will like to use to exercise their natural need to hunt, as long as it’s not encouraging bad behavior. By: Chewy EditorialPublished: June 25, 2018, By: Chewy EditorialPublished: September 16, 2014, By: Chewy EditorialPublished: October 11, 2017, By: Chewy EditorialPublished: November 1, 2018, By: Chewy EditorialPublished: October 2, 2017, By: Chewy EditorialPublished: May 3, 2015. “Not all cats will stop eating when they’re full,” says Parsons. They have a high need for interaction and stimulation and predatory play.”. “The cat is naturally a nocturnal creature,” says Corsun. Instead of leaving a full bowl for kitty to graze on at his leisure, work with your veterinarian to determine set meal portions and times. The decision to adopt your first cat is a monumental one, both for you and for your new cat. “A good, solid, heavy-duty cat tree is almost as important as a litter box,” says Rich. She recommends that new cat owners provide a stimulating environment for your cat by giving them access to puzzle toys and plenty of interaction with you. Find out when to bring your new kitten to the veterinarian, how to prepare for the vet visit, and what you can expect at the office. And purchasing a scratching post might not be enough to deter your cat from clawing your sofa, either. Are you curious about what takes place during a dog spay surgery? Borns-Weil says she once laid a mat down on top of her … “When you think about getting a cat, you’re kind of living with a wild animal,” says Stephanie Borns-Weil, a veterinarian and a behaviorist at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. You want to avoid and prevent.”. By: Teresa K. Traverse 3. Trim your cat’s nails every two weeks if it allows you to. She lives in Philadelphia with her two rescued Shih Tzus. Teresa K. Traverse is a Phoenix-based writer, editor, traveler and dog mom to Chihuahuas Autumn and Rocket. Your first step in getting a cat should be to consider the … So, I created the ultimate guide to relieve your new cat owner … Although your newly-adopted kitty will likely come home healthy and up-to-date on shots, plan to take him to the veterinarian for a little meet-and-greet once you get home. She suggests first-time cat owners give their cat boxes or bags to hide in. Clear some space off a bookshelf, create a clear path to the top of the fridge, or install some cat-specific wall shelving. Why do they do this? To keep your cat happy and healthy, plan to engage him in interactive, vigorous play sessions a couple times a day. The first item in your new kitten checklist should be food. The Cat Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook. Read … Owning a cat … To appeal to hunter instincts, Rich recommends toys that mimic prey, such as feathery birds and leather mice. Remember to spend quality time with your cat in the cat room every day. The problem with this is that some cats are truly like Garfield and have no off switch when it comes to food.”. “They’re not trying to be naughty. Learn to identify it–and get rid of it–right here. If you’re a new cat owner searching for a way to try to stop late-night cat parties, try to play with your cat during the day. “If you buy your cat a scratching post and they still mark the couch, it’s probably that the couch is more significant, in a more prominent place in the house,” says Borns-Weil. Take Our Quiz, Funny Feline Alert: These Are the Best Cat Videos of 2020, Cat Rescuer Sterling “TrapKing” Davis Wants You to Rethink Your Stereotypes About Cat Parents, A Literal Lifesaver: Debra Jo Chiapuzio Donates Pet Oxygen Masks to First Responders, This Instant Pot Dog-Friendly Stew Is All Kinds of Cozy, Ring in the New Year With This Alcohol-Free Calming Cat “Cocktail”, First Time Cat Owner? Some cats may need training to associate waste with this location, and others may avoid using the litter box due to other health issues. Fiercely independent, strong-willed, and intelligent, they are also very loving and affectionate. First-Time Cat Owner Advice: Tips and Supplies for Making Your Furry Friend Happy in Their New Home Think First. By: Chewy EditorialPublished: March 10, 2020, BeWell / Wellness / First Time Cat Owner? If you only have one feline, my guess is—yes. From choosing the right cat food to litter box training, … This video is for all new cat owners! Most cats are climbers. If you follow all these steps, your cat should become, in no time, a “well adjusted feline family member.” So if you are owning a cat for the first time … “If a cat does anything that you think is really cute, and you give them positive feedback, then you’ve actually trained them to go in the bag,” she says. The Cat Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook by Debra M. Eldredge is full of valuable information for cat owners, particularly … Conclusion: Owning a Cat for the First Time. Hey Guys! Ahh, cats, such beautiful yet weird animals. These 10 tips will help you be a happy first time cat owner! That’s just where they’re comfortable.”. Whether you are thinking about getting a cat, or have just adopted your first one, this tutorial has been designed to make your relationship with this special cat a lasting one so the cat … T base your decisions on the floor, give them a treat or attention! Of her fridge so her cat had a place to rest they have a need. You don ’ t have room for a more interactive dinner, Parsons recommends aFeliway diffuser, dispensesan... Usually referred kneading, or “ making muffins, ” says Borns-Weil t really have to pay for.! S home Veterinary Handbook not quite able to take your cat happy and healthy, to... To first time cat owner guide their development quiet, and allow the cat is a pretty life! 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