No matter how many felinesย you've had over your lifetime, there's always something enigmatic and puzzling about cats. So it makes sense that there are a few useful cat care tipsย that you may not have known about.
1. Cats prefer running waterย A built-in instinct from a time before they lived in your house, cats like running water better thanย the stuff in the bowl, ABC News reported. Historically, still water is more likely to have bacteria or microbes in it. Althoughย you may keep your cat's water perfectly clean, they'll always prefer something that moves.The news source suggested investing in a pet water fountain. Others prefer to just leave the sink running a little bit. Either way, adding some running water will help yourย cat stay hydrated, which felines often struggle with.
2. Put your litter box somewhere privateย According to Animal Planet, cats are just like humans when they go to the bathroom -
they want some privacy. While the most important thing about litter box placement may be easy accessibility, privacy is a close second. Find them a spot where they can relieve themselves without fear ofย being disturbed. Litter boxes also need to be far from where they drink and eat, as the old saying goes.
3. Cats need to scratchย Scratching isn't just a hobby, as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals explained, it's a necessity. Scratching allows catsย to shed their outer nail shells and keep their claws smooth. Help your cat out by getting them a scratching post or pad that will let them have a little fun while taking care of this important grooming habit. Of course, just because they need to scratchย doesn't mean you have to let them scratch you up.
4. Indoor cats live much longerย If you've been considering whether or not to let your fuzzy feline outdoors, PetFinder warned that outdoor cats only live an average of three years compared to an indoor cat's 15 to 18 years. While being outdoors may offerย more exploration opportunities, it also provides significantly more danger.
5. Play with your cat all the timeย Cats can be coy or antisocial sometimes, but The Animal Rescue Site recommended that owners play with their cats every chance they get. Not only does playing improve your bond with your cat, but it also helps them get a bit of extra stimulation.Use your
PetPlus membership to get all the tools you need to care for your cat.