- Litter Box
Buy a box to accomodate the size of the cat or kitten, and keep it in a part of the house that will allow quiet and privacy for its use. Your Cat's litter box should be kept scrupulously clean. Scoop out solid waste at least daily and change litter twice a week, or more often, according to use. When changing litter, empty the pan and wash well with a mild detergent and water. A weak bleach solution may also be used. Dry thoroughly, and refill with two or three inches of fresh litter.Most cats will voluntarily use a litter box, and need no training. With a New Model (kitten), you may want to pop him in the box shortly after eating, and scratch the litter a bit with your finger to show him what it's all about. Generally, the learn very quickly.
- Litter
Clumping clay litter is not recommended for kittens, as at a young age you cat will experiment with tasting almost everything. There are several natural "clumping-type" litters on the market that are safer. - Protective Mat
Since cats are usually enthusiastic about covering their waste, you should consider a mat for placing in front of the litter box. It will save wear and tear on your flooring, and also provide a place for kitty to wipe his feet after using the litter box. - Scratching Post
In order to keep their Drive Trains in optimum condition, Cats need a means of sharpening their claws. You can start with one scratching post, but may want to add more as needed. Observe your cat's scratching behavior. Does she stretch out on the carpet and scratch horizontally, or does she seem to prefer a long, tall stretch and scratch? Keep this behavior in mind when buying a scratching post.If you're handy at carpentry, you can build your own scratching post using a sturdy post wrapped with sisal on a strong base.
- Toys
A bored cat is a mischievous cat. Keep your cat active and alert by playing with her frequently. Wand type toys are excellent, and allow your cat to practice its predatory skills. An accordian-pleated piece of paper on the end of a fishing line or string makes a nice substitute. Cats love paper bags and boxes. Cut a hole in the side of an upside-down box big enough for the cat to enter, throw a wadded up piece of paper in, and then take advantage of the photo op.Kittens love plastic drinking straws. Tap or drag one along the floor and watch the kitten chase it. These straws also are wonderful for teething kittens. They make a nice, satisfying crunch when bitten. Teach your kitten at an early age that straws, not fingers, are made for biting. Play mice are wonderful, and cats of all ages love to chase and "kill" them. They're inexpensive, so buy several. You will eventually find caches of mice stored under your refrigerator or behind a sofa. Felt mice with a bit of catnip are usually irresistable. Because of humane reasons, I do not suggest buying fake mice covered with fur.
Schedule active play sessions with your cat shortly before going to bed. It may help to tire and relax him, and allow you uninterrupted sleep.
- Food and Water Bowls
Heavy ceramic or metal bowls are best for your cat. Make sure they are sturdy enough to keep from tipping over. Plastic bowls are not recommended for two reasons: 1)Many cats are allergic to them and develop contact dermatitis from them and 2)Minute scratches in plastic trap bacteria, making them harder to clean. Avoid bowls with a lead glaze, which at one time was common in Mexican-produced pottery.Wash your cat's dishes daily with a mild detergent, and rinse well.
- Identification Tags
Only three percent of owned cats that end up in shelters are eventually returned to their owners. Even if your cat is an indoor-only cat (which is strongly suggested), cats do slip out sometimes. Buy a breakaway collar with a tag containing your name and phone number and that of your veterinarian. It's the most important thing on your shopping list.
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