Having a cat is like having a baby, it makes your day more fun. You have a pet to play with, to hug and to cuddle. Spending some time with your cat after work relieves stress, and you always have someone too sweet to entertain you.
But along with all these good things are some responsibilities. Whether you´re a new cat owner or a new parent, here are seven basic things to remember on how to deal with a cat.
1. Avoid Noise
In order to help your new cat, especially the kittens, adapt in their new environment which is your home, steer clear of bustle, noise and loud speeches. Even adult cats will appreciate it if you impose a little discipline in these matters. Pull yourself back and let your cat have peace, otherwise it would have a tendency to become neurotic, timid, shy, and nervous.
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However, cats do understand that children are different than adults. They can tolerate noise and even playful things that little kids do to them, but not nasty things from grown up kids.
Exception: Old animals that are very in need of rest and often a bit peculiar.
2. Dote On Your Cat
Stroke and scratch your cat, play with her, and go with their games. Don´t forget to talk to her. Of course she does not understand – every word – but the meaning of some frequently repeated words, her name (it shouldn´t be too long and should be nice to the ear), and especially the friendliness in your voice, is understood by her and she´d respond immediately and kindly.
So you have the cat really high, not grabbed by the neck.
Make them feel comfortable in your arms.
3. The Right Way to Carry Your Cat
Never pick up or carry the kitten or the big cat by the neck. Hold it with one hand by the bottom and support with another hand by the chest. Some cats are accustomed from an early age to be carried like a baby – belly and all four paws up.
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4. Let the Cat Rest
Let the cat sleep when it´s tired. Kittens especially need a lot of rest even if you probably think it´s too much. Orient your children and make them understand that it´s important to let the cat sleep when it needs to in order to thrive and not be shy. You must learn to deal with the cat whether they´re resting or awake.
5. Give the Cat Its Space
Don´t disturb the cat if it´s sleeping, drinking, eating, or doing its business in the litter box. Just as much as you need time and space to do your business and necessities, the cat needs it too.
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6. Don´t pack or pluck
No cat tolerates it to be packed or plucked on the ears, whiskers or tail.
7. Make It a Family´s Affair
If you´re married and have children, include them in taking care of the cat. Let your kids, spouse, and other family members take turns in feeding and brushing, cleaning the food bowls and the litter box. Remember, your cat needs a regular care and it´s of great help if somebody is available to look after the pet in case you forgot or you´re unavailable to do it.
photo credit: Tambako the Jaguar, Reportergimmi, Watchcaddy, alasam