Adopting a new cat is a fun and exciting time for your family. These 5 tips for new cat owners will help guide you though the exciting process.
I’ve adopted two kittens from animal shelters and they have both been loving, friendly companions. Cats can be quirky, unpredictable, and are very independent. They don’t always want to cuddle, they don’t always come when you call them, and it’s rare that they’ll let you take them for a walk. But, once you understand them they’re wonderful pets. Today, I’m sharing my 5 tips for new cat owners with the hope that it will help you transition a pet into your family.
1| Prepare Your Family. Adding a cat to your family can be stressful. Before bringing your pet home, be clear on the responsibilities of who will care for her. Consider sharing the feeding responsibility with two children.
2| Learn about hazards for your new cat. Did you know that certain foods and plants can be toxic to cats. Pay attention to which items are dangerous to your cat and remove them from your home. Chocolate, onions, and garlic are among a few foods that are toxic to your kitty. {But who would share chocolate anyway?!}
3| Create a Feeding Zone. Cats need proper dishes for food and water. All animals need their own space and each cat should have his own food and water bowls. Our cat eats and drinks off of colorful plates and seems quite happy.
4| Get Toys! Animals love to play and cats are no exception. Make sure your home is full of soft fabric chew toys, squeaky toys, and balls. Make time in your day to play with your kitty – regardless of his age. If your kitty is an indoor kitty, consider investing in a scratching post to save your furniture.
5| Nourish Your Pet. Choose the appropriate food for your new pet’s age. We’ve chosen IAMS for our kitties through all of their life stages, they offer a variety of formulas based on your cat’s age making it a lifelong brand. We choose the dry foods as the abrasive chewing action helps promote oral hygiene for healthy teeth.
The IAMS brand is available in the pet section at your neighborhood Target, making it convenient and affordable. You’ll find several formulas there, along with pet supplies, toys, and other items you would otherwise pick up from a speciality pet store.
Beginning June 5, the Target Cartwheel app will be featuring five (5) great IAMS offers. 10% off IAMS dry dog food (expires July 25), 10% off IAMS dry cat food (expires July 11) 5% off IAMS Purrfect Delights wet cat food (expires July 11), 10% off IAMS Delicacieas wet cat food (expires July 11), and 10% off IAMS wet dog food (expires July 25).
You can learn even more about the needs of different cats by watching this short video from Professor IAMStein.
What tips would you share with someone thinking about adopting a cat? Is Target your one stop pet shop?
My tip would be to decide where they’re going to sleep and try to stick to that right off the bat. Especially if you don’t expect them to sleep in bed with you. But you know, they always end up in bed! 😉 #client