| Although your cat may act independent, he still | | | | wander and will reduce the problem of too many |
| counts on you to provide him with food, water, safe | | | | cats.7. Groom your cat often to keep its coat |
| shelter, veterinary care, companionship, and more. | | | | healthy, soft, and shiny. Although it is especially |
| Take care of these ten cat care essentials, and you'll | | | | important to brush long-haired cats to prevent their |
| have a rewarding relationship with your feline friend.1. | | | | hair from matting, even short-haired cats need to be |
| Provide your cat with a collar and ID tag that includes | | | | groomed to remove as much loose hair as possible. |
| your name, address, and telephone number. No | | | | When cats groom themselves, they ingest a great |
| matter how careful you are, your cat could get lost | | | | deal of hair, which often leads to hairballs. It will also |
| or injured whilst outside. An ID tag greatly increases | | | | mean less hair on your cushions.8. Give your cat a |
| the chance that your cat will be returned home | | | | nutritionally balanced diet, including constant access to |
| safely.2. Keep the litter tray clean and topped up to | | | | fresh water. If unsure ask your vet for advice on |
| the required level. This is good for both you and your | | | | what and how often to feed your pet.9. Train your |
| cat.3. Keep your cat indoors at night. Keeping your | | | | cat to refrain from undesirable behaviors such as |
| cat safely confined at night is best for you, your pet, | | | | scratching furniture and jumping on tables and |
| and your community. Some owners keep their cat | | | | worktops. Cats can be trained with a bit of patience, |
| confined at all times.4. Take your cat to the vet for | | | | effort, and understanding on your part. Provide a |
| regular check-ups. If you do not have a vet, ask | | | | ready made 'scratching post.'10. Play with your cat. |
| your local animal shelter or look in the yellow pages.5. | | | | While cats do not need the same level of exercise |
| Treat your cat with flee and tick treatment. This is | | | | that dogs do, enjoying regular play sessions with |
| easy to apply, but if you feel that you cannot do it | | | | your pet will provide it with the physical exercise and |
| then have it applied during your regular visit to the | | | | mental stimulation it needs, as well as strengthening |
| vet. Use a flee collar as in item 1.6. Spay or neuter | | | | the bond you share. |
| your pet. This will keep it healthier, less inclined to | | | | |