If you have recently welcomed a cat into your life, you may be looking for a bit of cats 101. No cats 101 lesson would be complete without facts about cats like health, temperament, and needs. Read on to discover cat basics that every owner should know.
Cats 101
Cats aren’t dogs. That is a simple statement, but it is true. If you are used to dogs, you’re in for a brand new world. Cats don’t not like you, they simply don’t need the same amount of attention as dogs require. When you bring a cat into your life, you’ll be surprised by their level of independence.
Keep Cats Healthy
No list of facts about cats does the animal justice without talking about health. Cats are prone to upper respiratory infections, digestive upsets, and injury. Many owners choose to pay for cat insurance should their cats become ill or injured. Here are some fast facts about cat health and signs your cat may need to visit the vet:
- Cats do not require milk. In fact, many cats are lactose intolerant. Never use milk as a substitute for water.
- Excessive vocalization can indicate pain or a medical condition. If your typically quiet cat won’t be quiet, it’s time to see the vet.
- The calicivirus and herpes virus are responsible for up to 90 percent of upper respiratory infections in cats.
- Cats need yearly vaccinations just like dogs do. Your vet needs to be vaccinated against distemper, feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency virus, and rabies. Pet insurance helps to cover the cost of vaccinations for your feline friend.
- Cats that are free fed are more likely to become obese.
Cat Grooming, Feeding and Cat Insurance
Cats are fastidious about their appearance. Although it is rare for a cat to need a bath, they do need to be brushed frequently. If you fail to brush loose fur from your cat’s coat, it will develop hairballs in its gut. These hairballs can become so large that your cat is unable to pass them, and surgery may be required to remove them.
Cats are grazers, and they like to pick at their food during the day. Because of this, many owners leave a bowl of kibble out for their cats. Unfortunately, this type of feeding can cause a cat to become obese. If you remember any of our facts about cats, remember this: Cats maintain a healthy weight more easily if they are fed several measured meals each day. Find here some tips to find the best cat food.
Pet insurance is not new, but this type of insurance has gained popularity in recent years. Cat insurance can help you pay for major medical costs associated with your cat. The monthly premiums can be well worth the cost when you compare them to the high costs of a vet bill should your cat become ill or injured.
Now you have a little bit of cats 101. Cats are not complicated creatures, but these animals can take some getting used to. If you’re used to having dogs in your life, welcome to the world of cats. We think that you are going to enjoy yourself.
