June has officially gone to the felines with so many holidays honoring their presence! Warning: With all the kitty love this month, you may end up adopting a cat!
June Cat Holidays
We start with the month-long American Humane Association’s “Adopt-a-Cat Month” and the ASPCA’s “Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month!” But wait, there’s more!
- Hug Your Cat Day
- National Garfield the Cat Day
- Take Your Cat to Work Day
- And finally, Cat World Domination Day!
Starting to feel the love and want to add a new feline friend to your home? Keep reading to learn what you need to know first before adopting a cat!
The 7 Basics When Adopting a Cat
Life Expectancy
Cats typically live between 12 and 18 years but can live to 20 or more years! Are you ready for that long-term commitment and expenditures?
Kitty Scratching
It is completely normal and healthy for cats to scratch so give your feline plenty of places to safely scratch!
Scratching is a way for a cat to “mark” his territory with visual and scent signs.
Scratching also helps shed claw sheaths and keep their nails in good shape.
Litterbox Pickiness
- Cats can be picky when it comes to their litterbox and may stop using their litterbox because:
- There are too many cats for one litterbox.
- The litter is not cleaned often enough.
- There is too much litter. Most cats will not use litter that’s more than 2 inches deep.
- The type and scent of litter
- Switching litters too often. Find a litter your cat likes and stick with it.
- The litterbox is hard to reach or close to frightening noises or heat.
- Medical conditions including:
- Urinary tract infection/blockage
- Bladder Stone
- Constipation
- Kidney Disease
- Diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Behavioral issues including:
- Stress, boredom, anxiety and aggression
- A new home/furniture
- New family/pets in the home
- An intact male/female cat in the home marking their territory in or outside your home
Feline Nutrition
- Cats are known as obligate carnivores, meaning they rely on nutrients in animal products. A balanced and nutritious diet should include the 6 nutrients below:
- Water
- Animal-based proteins
- Essential/non-essential amino acids
- Fats
- Carbohydrates
- Vitamins
Grooming Your Cat
Regular grooming is essential to your cat’s overall health, well-being and comfort. It’s also a great way to strengthen your bond with your feline. Learn more at How to Groom a Cat with step-by-step instructions and pictures. (Also be sure to check out our cat grooming tools!)
Create a cat-friendly and safe environment by removing all potentially toxic plants from your home!
Did you know that some feline breeds need more attention?
These breeds include:
1. Siamese, and
2. Long-haired cats including the Persian, Himalayan, Maine Coon and more.
Despite their independent nature, cats still need quality interaction and enrichment activities for their best mental and physical health. Cats who are bored or stressed can become destructive. Anxious cats may also spray urine in and around the house. Use a pet sitter to give your cat some extra attention and activity.
Cats typically take more time to settle into their new home. Give them plenty of space and patience. Hint: try bonding with your new cat by smiling like a cat!
Adopting a cat (or any other pet) is a wonderful feeling and new adventure! By thinking it through and learning more about the feline breed you want to adopt will help ensure a successful transition for both you and the new kitty!
The Grooming Tool Your New Kitty Will Love!
Grooming your cat is an easy way to enhance the bond and trust between you and your feline friend.
The 5-inch EasyGroomer painlessly and easily removes your cat’s dead hair, dust and coat dander while supporting their overall well-being, health and comfort.