Cat Care

by Cleo & Brad Conrad

Cat owners must be aware of in-home danger spots. The following tips give owners an understanding of what to look out for, as well as the essentials for responsible pet care:

• Securely store hazardous material (sharp objects, insecticides, poisons, moth balls, medications, plastic bags and cleaning supplies). Antifreeze, chocolate, aspirin-type products and some common house plants are toxic to cats.
• Cats should wear an ID tag and a small bell on their break-away collars at all times.
• Keep toilet lids down.
• Keep electrical cords short or tacked down.
• Never leave a lit stove unattended.
• Secure all window screens.
• Keep drawers, trunks and closet doors closed.
• Check before closing appliance doors (especially clothes dryers).
• Cat owners need to purchase at least one litter box per cat, cat litter and a scoop. Litter boxes should be cleaned every day, and be placed in a low-traffic area.
• Cats require complete and balanced cat food and fresh clean water every day.
• A clean bed, scratching post and cat-safe toys are also recommended for a cat's well being.
• Cats should be groomed often and checked for lumps, rashes, or any unusual skin conditions. Clip cats' nails regularly.
• Maintain a program of regular veterinary care for annual shots and check-ups.