March 28th is Respect Your Cat Day! One might think that this holiday isn’t really necessary. After all, cats are pretty good at getting us to respect them. In fact, Fluffy is an expert at getting us to pamper her. However, truly respecting your cat may be a bit more detailed than just petting or playing with her on demand. A local Ellicott City, MD vet lists some ways to show Fluffy proper respect in this article.
Clean Litterbox
Keep Fluffy’s litterbox nice and clean. Scoop it daily, and change the litter every week or so. Cats hate dirty bathrooms!
Good Food
All pet foods are definitely not created equal. Offer your kitty the best brand you can afford. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.
Proper Veterinary Care
Make sure that your feline friend sees the vet regularly. Even indoor cats need regular exams, and should be kept current on vaccinations and parasite control. It’s also important to call your vet immediately if you notice any signs of illness. Cats don’t always let on that they aren’t feeling well, so you may not realize your pet is sick until she’s quite ill!
Simple Comforts
Always keep your pet’s comfort in mind. If you leave Fluffy alone, turn a light on for her, and keep your climate control running. Kitties can get quite lonely and depressed when left alone in a dark, silent house! You may also want to keep a radio or TV on for background noise.
Kitty Furniture
Kitties really appreciate having some things that will suit their specific needs. A cat tower is a great option, as it offers your pet a scratching post, napping spot, and vantage point, all in one.
Scratching Posts
Speaking of scratching posts, make sure your cat has a good place to scratch. Kitties like to stretch while they are sharpening their claws, so get something that is tall. You’ll also want to make sure Fluffy’s scratching post is sturdy, so it doesn’t wobble or topple over on her.
Avoid Punishment
We know, cats aren’t always purrfect. But you should never punish your feline buddy for misbehaving. You may only scare her, which could make matters worse. Ask your vet or a behaviorist for advice on teaching Fluffy better manners.
As your local Ellicott City, MD vet hospital, we are happy to provide excellent veterinary care. Call us anytime!
