Basic Cat Care

Before purchasing a new cat, it is important to understand necessary pet care. Information provided on this page is a good place to start; however, we advise you to consult a veterinarian in your area. A trained veterinarian can give you all the information you need for your pet of choice.

To select a cat for your family you will want to consider how much time you’re willing to spend grooming (some cats shed more than others), how active you want your cat to be (some cats are playful while others are laid-back), which sex you prefer, whether you want a kitten or a mature cat (kittens will require more training), and whether your children and other pets are likely to adapt to the new addition. Since this cat will likely be a part of your life for many years, take time to make the right decision.

Immediately after bringing your cat home, schedule an appointment with a local veterinarian. Your cat will need to receive necessary vaccinations. The booster shot is one of the most important vaccinations and protects against a number of different diseases. This shot should be given to a kitten twice between the ages of 8-12 weeks, and once annually from then on.

Another important vaccination is the rabies shot, which prevents your cat from transmitting diseases from wild animals to other family members. It is required by law to have your pet vaccinated against rabies. The shot should be given every 1-3 years depending on your veterinarian.

Other vaccinations include the Feline Leukemia vaccine (the leukemia virus is one of the most deadly in cats), the Feline Infectious Peritonitis vaccine (also a deadly disease), the Ring Worm vaccine (a fungal infection), and the Bordetella vaccine (preventing respiratory disease). Your veterinarian can determine which vaccinations are appropriate for your cat, and how often they should have them.

Training cats is slightly easier than training dogs, as a majority of the training involves the litter box. It is a natural instinct for cats to defecate in sand or soil, and they normally learn from watching their mother. Kittens will start going in litter boxes at 3-4 weeks old, so it is possible that your kitten may already use a litter box at the time you purchase it.

To familiarize your cat to their litter box, gently place them in the box at times when cats would normally go to the bathroom (after waking up, before going to bed, and after meals). The cat should get used to the litter box very quickly. It is important to note that cats like doing things in private, so once they are comfortable with the litter box, leave them alone. You should provide each cat with 2 litter boxes. Some cats will not share litter boxes with other cats, and some prefer urinating in one box and defecating in the other. Always place the litter box in a quiet area of the house.

Bathing cats is normally unnecessary unless they have something that needs to be treated (i.e. ticks, fleas etc). If you do choose to give your cat a bath make sure to use a cat shampoo, place cotton balls in their ears (to prevent ear infection), brush their fur before and after, and clip their toenails before you start.

Stick to well known brand names when feeding your cat. Some companies sell cat food among other products and have likely not taken the time to research animal health thoroughly. Dry foods are always recommended over canned ones, as they can help your cat develop healthy, strong teeth.

For more information about cat care, contact a veterinarian in your area.