Cats love to scratch, stretch, and play throughout the day.
While it is a common misconception that cats are incredibly low maintenance, it is important to remember that much like a new dog or puppy in your home, cats also require a certain level of care to be happy and healthy at home. Although there is no need to walk them on a leash outside or bathe them in your bathtub, activities such as grooming, playing, and feeding are equally crucial to their care. If you are the proud caretaker of a new cat in your home, consider these seven ways to ensure that your new cat is happy and healthy throughout the year.
Give Your Cat Plenty of Fresh Water
Leaving plenty of fresh water out for your cat throughout the day is important for keeping them both happy and healthy in your home. Much like dogs (and people too!), cats rely on water to keep them hydrated and regulate their body temperature throughout the day.
Keep the Litter Box Clean During the Week
In addition to keeping your cat well-fed and hydrated, it is also crucial to ensure that your cat has a clean place to go to the bathroom. Not only will keeping the litter box clean throughout the week keep them comfortable, but it will also keep your house smelling fresh as well.
Provide a Scratching Post
Cats love to scratch, stretch, and play throughout the day. With this, it is important to provide a scratching post for your cat so they can comfortably scratch something that isn’t your sofa!
Have a Cat Carrier Ready for Car Rides
Using a cat carrier during car rides is essential for keeping your cats safe and comfortable in the car. While it may seem tempting to let your cat walk freely around the car as you drive, it is best to use a carrier to ensure that you can operate the vehicle safely with your cat in the car.
Maintain a Dental Care Schedule for Your Cat
Brushing your cat’s teeth can be complicated, so why not leave dental care to a professional? By maintaining a dental care schedule for your cat, you can keep their teeth clean and prevent any additional health complications caused by dental complications.
Schedule Regular Visits to the Veterinarian
Checkups are crucial for keeping your cat healthy as they age. Scheduling regular visits to the veterinarian will help to ensure that your cat is receiving their checkups on time, and receiving proactive care throughout the year.
Spay or Neuter Your Cat
Spaying or neutering your cat provides several benefits to their health. Spaying your female cat can help to prevent certain types of cancer in reproductive organs, as well as urinary infections. Neutering your male cat offers similar benefits for preventing cancers, as well as helps to prevent prostate issues as they age.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, or Pinterest!