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Cats are the perfect companions for us humans. Who wouldn’t want a serial cuddler that doesn’t judge you (not too obviously, at least), an endless source of amusement, and a great listener all in one? But some things about our feline friends don’t always make life easy. From the constant shedding to the litter box odors, it can be challenging to keep up with the needs of our furry confidants.

While cats are perfectly capable of taking care of themselves for most of their daily needs, it’s not like they can avoid shedding, keep their litter box clean, or ignore their nature and not scratch the furniture just to please us. Especially if we don’t provide them with a scratcher to do it! As responsible cat owners, we need to learn how to help our kitties through any issues they may have.

If you’re thinking about bringing a new furry friend into your home and could use a little help to take care of a cat, we’re here to give you a paw! We’ve investigated and rounded up tons of cat hacks and tips to learn how to tend to your cat’s every need like a pro, so you can make sure they’re happy in their forever home!

#1

Cat with green eyes Get them neutered. To ensure all cats have a safe and happy home, one of cats protection’s key aims is to champion neutering as a way to keep the cat population under control.

cats.org.uk Report

Weed in the Garden
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One pregnant female can start a feral colony in less than nine months! Please trap, neuter, and return if necessary, but it is not kind to just feed strays. Help them!

Catte West
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the past three years I have relocated over thirty stray cats from my neighborhood. I have adopted all I can. Across the street neighbor won't feed cat who had kittens at her house. They still live there but eat at my house. Please, people, be responsible!!

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Laura Gillette
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I said this on twitter once and an avalanche of people started calling me American-centric and saying I should stop pushing my American beliefs on the rest of the world. Like feral cat populations aren't a problem in other countries or something??

Okatango
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some deal with it well, such as imprisonment for animal neglect, but others not. I spent a week in Tahiti and the most lasting impression I have is of coming across a strangled pregnant dog. Stand your ground, spread the word.

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Chris berkley
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not only that but if they are inside cats it limits their want to escape I think, mine was always bolting for the door, we got him neutered and now he doesnt want too

3 Owls In A Coat
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Same! My 2 boys have stopped rushing the door now that they’re neutered.

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Royal Stray
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just to add to this, do neuter your house cats (unless you plan for the cat to get kittens obviously), just make sure your cat is old enough to get neutered first.

Okatango
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There are already too many kittens. I used to volunteer at a shelter, and in spring people were lined up around the block with boxes of kittens. So many had to be killed because there were no homes or even people who could foster. People claiming the wanted teach their kids about the "miracle of birth'. Yeah, let me show you the obscenity of having to watch baby animals gasp and struggle for as long as the gas took to kill them. Later it was by injection in the belly. Or the best yet: The owners dumped them in nearby forests to be torn to pieces by coyotes. Every designer, bred on demand kitten takes the life of another cat that could perhaps have been adopted.

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Ritchat
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is especially important for female cats, not just because the cat could get pregnant. Being in heat is pure torture for the cat. In addition, the risk of getting uterine cancer increases many times over the more often the cat is in heat. Cats can already be neutered when 3 months old (it's not a common practice yet, unfortunately) before ever being in heat. And as cute as kittens are, the world doesn't need more of them. Also, be prepared to hand-feed them every 2 hours for weeks and defecate them daily if there are complications and the mother dies or refuses to take care of her kittens. Prepare yourself to spend thousands of dollars/euros on medical expenses for the kittens or in case a kitten is stuck in the birth kanal and the mother needs to have a c-section. Seriously... if you love your cat, please spare it the torture and just get it neutered.

lazy_panda_jory
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When we adopted our cats (one male and one female) our female cat was too young to be sterilized yet (the male kitty was neutered). She went in heat twice and it was horrible for her. We got her sterilized as soon as we could, and recommend anyone to do the same.

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Charlotte Sandoval
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Important but I wouldn't call it a hack, just responsible pet ownership

Catte West
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please, please, PLEASE!!! Find a way, ask for donations, beg the vet. Just do it!!

Mary Lugo
Community Member
3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One comment I didn't read here was - CHIP YOUR CAT. As crazy as it sounds, yes, kitty does sneak out and the SPCA has a way of finding its home.

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RELATED:
    #2

    If your cat lets you touch its paws, it means that they love and trust you.

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    Phil Green
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I can play with her toes, rub her tummy, grab her tail... To her I am a god and I can't work out why. She talks to me on the phone if I call my wife during the day. She gets jealous if I give my wife a cuddle or kiss her. She hangs out with me in the garden. She has to make sure I use my "litter tray" properly. Yeah, ok, I feed her raw beef and I get up at stupid o'clock in the morning to feed her... I am not her slave... Really.... ;-)

    Alex S
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My car sits like a limp potato while I cut his claws. He's an incredibly good boy. He gets beefy treats afterwards so maybe that's the secret!

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    Jude Laskowski
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat stretches out his arms to have them rubbed, then I massage his toes. I live to serve.

    Marette
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    One of my cats will let me stroke his paw when we cuddle. The other one will scratch me if I so much as look at his paw. I like to think they both love & trust me 🤔

    Brooklyn
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat doesnt tust me then😂

    Astrius
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat is weird, not very cuddly and affectionate, but she gives other signs that she loves us. She is more like a friend.

    Kathryn Baylis
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cats’ (3 at present, plus 1 dog) toes are ticklish. I can touch their whole paws, to pet them or clip their nails, but if I brush my fingers over their toes they pull them away and shake them.

    RajunCajun
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    when I am laying on the couch he will come and lay down on top of me and let me play with his little feets

    Ivy la Sangrienta
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Aww, mine does. He doesn't care which part of him I touch, except when he doesn't want to be touched at all, but I can always tell because his pupils dilate.

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    #3

    Cat licking To end a game of chase with the laser, give your cat a treat to give them a sense of accomplishment and a job well done.

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    Bored Retsuko
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes, the laser thing can be frustrating for cats because they never get to catch their prey, and there's no accomplishment! Physical toys are better imho.

    Jo Focquet
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It helps when you point it to a small toy so they have a feeling they catched it.

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    lupo mulder
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My tuxedo figured out the how and what of that red dot, first he lost interest as he could not catch the dot, later on he figured out that it was me holding the pointer, so: so when he noticed the spot he looked at it, then looked up to my hand : I know what you are trying to do there, I am not chasing that dot

    Cecilia
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lupo, my cat figured it out too, she just looks up at me and I swear I can see her thinking, "as if"

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    Bonesko
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat doesn't like the laser, but I did start giving her a treat after we're done playing with her wand.

    Kristina Šob
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lasers are unsafe, because if you accidentally point it to the cats eye, it damages its retina.

    Shane S
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don’t laser-shame. There’s lots of “prey” cats chase that don’t end in a reward. Shadows. Tv. Aquariums. But the treat idea is still a good concept that I support.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes! Very important. Much like you need to have hobbies that manipulate real life objects and create real life things, cats need toys they can touch as well.

    Jessica Stringer
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My husband always says not to play too long with the laser cause it messes with their heads. So I incorporate one of their small rubber balls and point the laser at it , giving them something that they can actually touch and or catch without messing with their heads so much.

    Synsepalum
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat has zero interest in laser pointers. Same with boxes. She's a weirdo.

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have had cats that liked boxes, but the cat I have now shows also zero interest. Laser pointers made her frustrated, so I stopped using those. She does have a fascination for drinking muddy rainwater on the balcony, instead of fresh, clean water from her water fountain. Cats are weird creatures!

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    PSimms
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Tried laser toy twice, both times both our cats were clearly agitated and I saw nothing that indicated they enjoyed it at all. We stopped using it.

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    #4

    If you don't let your cat outside, it'll avoid any number of random dangers the world can throw at it.

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    Cindy Jordan
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cats won't be the reason birds and other animals go extinct look in the mirror

    Betty Smith
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, domestic cats have already caused the extinction of at least 33 species, but humans did domestic them and travel with them, so the fault does lie us. I don’t believe we’re trying to s**t-talk cats, just educate that they are an environmental hazard.

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    olaff 422
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They also won't hunt birds and other animals to extinction.

    Royal Stray
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or take your cats on walks or let them out under watch/lead in your garden. It's not fair for a cat to be cooped up inside all day long if they show signs of wanting to go out

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yup! I trained my cat to wear a harness so we could go outside. She didn't do a whole lot of walking - it was more like random wandering while eating grass. :)

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    Michelle Muirhead
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Put up a Catio or cat-net your yard.

    Hill Branda
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Exactly why I keep my fur baby indoors. His life will be longer and healthier. He's too timid to go outside anyway.

    TwirlyGirly
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A cat's cognitive abilities are very similar to those of a 2-year-old human child; and cats allowed to roam outdoors alone face the same dangers as a 2-year-old child allowed to roam outdoors alone. They may get lost. Hit by a car. Kidnapped, then tortured and left to suffer, or killed. Attacked by an animal. Consume something poisonous, become seriously ill, and perhaps die. Fall, and become seriously injured. Become trapped in a place where they can't be easily seen or heard. If you have a 2-year-old child, you certainly would never consider allowing them to roam around outdoors without supervision. Please, if you have a cat, don't allow them to roam outdoors, either.

    Analyn Lahr
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Indoor cats are more likely to live longer than ones who go outside.

    Lisa H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unless you walk it on a leash like I do because that's his favorite thing ever.

    Anonymousplease
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I let my cat outside but only when I am out there, she just sits and watches birds and squirrels for hours

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    #5

    When you move to a new place, unpack the litter box first. Then "unpack" the kitty and put her next to the litter box so he/she knows where it is... Cats use the litter box as a "home base" and start exploring from there.

    ruforealz Report

    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    and be sure to lock them in the bathroom before all the boxes come into the house, so they don't go darting out the door.

    Tessb90
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you're renovating the bathroom at any point, and it doesn't have a subfloor, don't assume that the older cat won't show the newly adopted kitten how to get around the makeshift barrier to open the pocket door, and go on an adventure under the house. You will spend far too many hours crawling under the entire house attempting to retrieve them when they're having far too much fun playing chasy.

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    Jude Laskowski
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And put a little of the old litter in the box so they can smell it.

    H M
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't have a litter box, never locked them in at all when moving. Happy cats don't leave home.

    GFSTaylor
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you've just moved to a new house, they don't know the new one is now home.

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    Miss Frankfurter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thanks for the advice. I’ll be moving and I’m so concerned about how she’ll handle it. She’s never seen stairs before.

    madbakes
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    cats are natural climbers, so stairs won't bother her a bit unless she's a senior cat. You can always start be keeping her in smaller areas, opening up more of the house to her over a few days, if she seems very nervous. Just pick her up and take her to the litter box a few times so she doesn't forget.

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    Jessica Tolar
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That was what we did when we moved. I put her litter box in its permanent spot (in a closet) and closed the bedroom door so she knew that was her room and she was safe while we unpacked

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    #6

    Gray cat on the chair looking Talk to your cat. It helps to build a rapport, and he/she will respond to more tones of your voice.

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    Robin Canfield
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I talk to my cats all the time..you don't to need to be mushy gushy..but if they trust your voice especially if you have to move to a new apartment or go to the vet...it really does help

    Sterling Hill
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Voice is important! I have a friend who has 3 big white dogs with blue eyes, look a lot like wolves. The first time I met them, he was so upset I didn’t call ahead so he could lock them up “because they are dangerous “. I didn’t know and when I called out to them in a super happy voice “oh aren’t you just the prettiest most beautiful dogs I’ve ever seen, oh yes you are!” And the dogs started prancing and playing and my friend got even madder. He said most people were terrified of them and they’d keep people penned in their car. I laugh just thinking about this. I tell my cat how pretty she is and she rolls over on her back, feet in the air, posing! Voice, yeah!

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    The Deez
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ummmm...is there a cat owner out there who DOESN'T talk to their cats? And, if so, does that person have no SOUL?!

    Tessb90
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It helps when they want something. If I ask whether she wants biscuits or milk (cat milk), she gives me an answer straight away. Milk is more of a higher pitched rolling mew than biscuits. It saves me from her judgemental look of severe disappointment in my level of intelligence, if I were to not ask and get it wrong.

    Penny Hernandez
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I tell my cats "No Claws" all the time. They think it means that I love random scratches on my skin and please do it more.

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I only talk to my cats. Unlike humans they don’t come out with snide or derogatory remarks. Mind you, the looks I get from lot speak volumes.

    Sharkie
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I love talking with my cat. And I love when she answers. She has special name for me (She never uses it for anyone else), has special sound as "thank you" and can say it in a different, angry tone when we are "too slow" to react. And she actually meows like describing her day, when I ask. More so if it rains outside or some other unfair thing happens. She doesn't need "baby talk" but she loves when I repeat words like "my", "pretty", "little kitty" and "yes, you are" and so on.

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That’s so cute!! Isn’t it awesome when you get to the point where you can understand your cat’s different vocalizations :) one of my cats has a very distinctly different meow for “pet me,” “feed me,” “where is my kitty brother,” and just “hello” and I love it

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    Phil Green
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We talk to the cat in proper, grown-up English. She knows certain words. We hate it when people do that dumb, baby-talk voice "talking". Our cat is a grown-up, FFS!

    Catte West
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And they will learn to mimic sounds they associate with an object or action. Mr. Mistoffelees says "Gro ow! ". He means Go out!

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    RajunCajun
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    my cat can tell me if wants food or if the water dish is empty by the way he meows

    Dee Pierce
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It is not safe or legal for cats in our large suburb to run free outdoors. So we have a zip-up mesh-type gazebo for our cat. We only let him in it when we are home and we check on him every 30 minutes or so. He loves getting to go out in it and will be content for hours. Some day I would love to have a catio for him.

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    #7

    Hang an inexpensive bird feeder outside a window and be sure you have a chair or table near the window so they can sit and watch the birds. It will entertain them every day!

    soaringrooster Report

    Navindu Wijewardena
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Our cat sits on my piano and looks out through the window at the tree right in front of it

    Janine B.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Jepp, we call that Petflix or Meow-TV.

    John Topper
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I used to call it cat-tv, but Petflix is way better.

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    Rebecca Vestal
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a squirrel feeder right on my window ledge and it keeps my cats very active and entertained

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a 2nd-storey patio and I always buy bird seed at the dollar store and sprinkle it on the patio railings, keeps the birds happy and the kitty boys entertained while I’m at work :)

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    Mike Crow
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Tried that with ours. He ignored the birds but loves the bugs he sees.

    Fluffy Griffin
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat was obsessed with a sheer curtained window a few months ago. We were confused at first but it turns out the sunflowers I planted just outside have attracted a regular pair of Goldfinches. Now she gets very demanding that we open the curtain and replace the chair at the window after every time we use it.

    Aisling Raye
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have three strategically placed hummingbird feeders that allow my two spoiled brat cats to have multiple channels to watch on "TV" since the feeders are visible form 5 different windows. The hummingbirds are pretty thrilled with the set up too. At last count there are a total of 15-20 of them (hummingbirds are hard to count accurately lol.)

    PinkLadyEmpress
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat used to sit by the big window in the living room and watch the robins. If one flew away, she’d run to the back bedroom window, thinking the bird was in the backyard.

    Anthony Nizza
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wish I lived in a house so I could do this

    Kate Jones
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Be careful doing something like this if you live on a second level or above. Some cats will try to climb screens and could fall out the window in their rush to to dart to the window. I've caught my cats literally stuck on the screens with their nails, lol. Thankfully my screens are nailed in.

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    #8

    Cat walking outside Teaching your cat to come when called is not only handy but could save his life. If he escapes outside, you can call him back home.

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    K- THULU
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And when naming a cat, first try going outside and shouting possible names 4 or 5 times....if you feel like an idiot, find a better name! ( I've had cats called Mortis and princess bubblegum.... I know!)

    Weed in the Garden
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah, too late! 'Baby' is her name and my husband refuses to call her in at night because he sounds like a pervert....

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    Philenzortia
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat knows his name... But he only comes when he wants to..... -.-

    Lyrica Melody
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I use a specific type of shaker can; it resonates extremely well with a distinctive sound all my cats have learned. The deeper tones seem to carry much further than my voice, and it also works for a member of my family that has speech difficulties. We've got one kitty that is hearing impaired on higher notes (chronic respiratory and ear infections) that keeps trying to sneak outside, plus a couple others who regularly try to escape for a few hours, so finding a way to reliably call them back to safety was a priority. I use the can at feeding times and even at the start of laser play time; they never get more than 2-3 treats at a time, but they always come running because they know there's going to be something good, plus skritches, of course!

    Ella Carzana
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Mine are absolutely not going to come in when I call their names, they will, however be by my side immediately if I even touch the cat food box. Or my medication because I feed them when I take my tablets so they jump up expecting good as soon as they hear any kind of pill packet. Pavlov's cats?

    Natalie Phipps
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I trained my cat to come to the sound of a bell. I got him when he was 6 months old and kept him in the house for a good month or so (on recommendation from the shelter) and every time I put food down for him, I dinged the bell. Now he associated it with dinner time and almost always comes back straight away. Clever boy :)

    Okatango
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I taught them to come home by clapping. They get a treat every time and snuggles, even if I am in a hurry: Being consistent is critical.

    Trillian
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can just put an empty box outside, cat will sit in it in no time

    Phyllis Turbin
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ours actually comes to my hubby's whistling.

    Robin Canfield
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My bf renamed our adopted cat based on the sound of his old name ..he converted to Darwin from Marvin...

    Ace
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And just how do you think this can be achieved?

    Rowena Coyle
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Call or say the cat's name repeatedly when doing stuff they love, like playing with them or feeding them. They'll associate their name with good things and come check out what's going on when they hear it.

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    #9

    It is recommended that you play with your cat for 15 to 20 minutes before bedtime so that they can let out all their excess energy. This pre-bedtime play session will make the cat calmer and help them sleep better through the night.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    and if they only get wet food once a day, give it to them at supper time, that way they won't be waking you at 4am for food.

    meow point1
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Sleep through the night"? Cats are semi-nocturnal.

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat "hunts" for toys while I am asleep. She has these little foam balls that she carries around in her mouth while making that "I just caught some prey" noise. She then brings them to the doorway of my bedroom and lines them up for me. It's adorable! But she's very noisy about it - especially since her ideal "hunting" time is around 4am. :)

    Aunt Messy
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm not buying it. Playing with OUR cats gets them revved up to the point where only a light speed trip up and down three flights of stairs three times will help them chill out and sleep. If they go to bet early, they'll be revved up again by 4:00 a.m. and roaring around the house. Note: We have two 15 year old cats, and one three year old.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Tbh you should be playing with your animal at least an hour every single day. Does not matter what animal you have. An hour AT LEAST, every SINGLE day. If you don't want to then don't have a pet, have plushies.

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Seven cats. If it’s 15 to 20 minutes per cat I’d never get to bed.

    Helen Waight
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It sometimes works with ours, and at other times he’ll go for the ‘sudden foot attack’ the instant you turn the lights off.

    Lisa H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But then I won't wake up with a random cat toy in my room that wasn't there the night before!

    Kate Jones
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat doesn't give me any problems at night. It's first thing in the morning. I can't sleep past 5am. She's always ready to eat. I try to give her a full can before bed so she will maybe let me sleep but...nope. She used to scratch at my door but I got a motion activated sprayer and it curbed that. But she just cries until I get up and feed her. I've tried letting her cry herself out but it's hard. If she wakes me up I immediately have to pee in the morning so I end up having to get up and she'll even follow me into the bathroom and cry at me like she's angry. Feed me now! If I didn't come out of my room she would literally not stop crying at my door. I wish I could fix this. She eats 2 cans of food a day and sometimes even eats the other cats' food. I've had her checked out- no worms or issues. She's just a hog. Sometimes she throws up because she ate too much to fast. Crazy girl. I've had her for years so there shouldn't be any food paranoia at this point.

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    #10

    Cat with green eyes in snow Got feral cats in the backyard? Keep ‘em warm this winter. Provide some food and shelter for feral or stray cats.

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    Russ Whiteman
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yep, we set up a couple of cat houses in the backyard a few years ago, during a particularly vicious cold snap. We'd already been providing a bit of food for the ferals, and we could deal with the chances of finding a little frozen body. The only downside is that we don't get to watch birds at our feeders anymore, but the regular visits from the kittens more than makes up for it.

    Jean Hylan
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Please call your local Humane Society and see if they have a trapping program. These feral cats need more than food and a warm box - they need to be neutered to stop this cycle.

    Danniee Gyrl
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have our Patio set up for stray cats in our Apartment Complex.----- All year long they have Shelter is under the chairs (we keep it clean) water/food. ---Our cats love seeing them come up at night. They kind of "play" with each other thru the Patio Door (it's closed)

    The Silly Stellar Jay
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Uhhh, speaking for the dwindling birds here, unless you are also going to neuter them and get them in a home they can decimate our population. Birds are an important part of city ecosystems. Protect the birbs!

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    no. those cats are coming inside or going to a shelter. cats do not belong outside. ever.

    John Topper
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think the 480 million strays in the world might disagree with you. Cats are quite happy to live outside.

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    Sue Knerl
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Spay and neuter or you'll be up to your armpits in kittens!!!!

    Eva Sawyer
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm sorry, but nope! Our neighbor does that and we constantly have cats in our yard. They use my back patio as a litter box and drive my dogs up the freaking wall. When we were looking at the house to purchase it, a cat jumped off the roof and attacked the real estate lady.... there comes a point where you are just encouraging more breeding and feral cats.

    Okatango
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've been doing this for years, Between the (adjective of choice) farmers who won't neuter them and the morons who dump them in the nearby forest, it's been years of vet and food bills. Not all of them can be saved, it's heartbreaking.

    Catte West
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a two story shelter made from two abandoned end tables, fleece blankets all wrapped in a clear shower curtain to keep bedding dry and keep out wind.

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    #11

    If you find that your cat has a propensity to sit on your book or keyboard or in front of your monitor as you attempt to use it, place an open box on your desk big enough for your cat. If there’s one thing cats love more than sitting on keyboards, it’s sitting in boxes.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can also put a spare keyboard right next to the one you are using.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    yeah give them their own little computer (or prayer rug, or desk) bc they are mirroring you bc they are like 'we are a fambly we do the same things together'.

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    Mike Crow
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat sits on my desk and watches art tutorial videos with me. His name is Leonardo Da Kitty.

    Freya the Wanderer
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My dear departed Aida loved to sit on my desk next to the computer. From time to time she guest starred in Zoom conferences. She did, however, figure out how to avoid stepping on the keyboard.

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    Thorsten Massow
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat Alice prefers a fuzzy pillow, so I have one on my desk in front of the monitor. Alice-1509...9a2b9e.jpg Alice-150922-63235f19a2b9e.jpg

    BatPhace
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Can confirm, one of my cats doesn't even care if it's a box, as long as it's got 4 sides, it could be a piece of paper on the ground and she's there in less than 30 seconds

    Jude Laskowski
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have the only cat on the planet who doesn't like boxes. Otherwise normal, whatever that is.

    Hecate DeMort
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat doesn't like boxes or the keyboard, she is too cool to do the normal things cats do. Or she doesn't realise they would be annoying (for me) places for her to sleep.

    Allison Baker
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nope. My cat has no interest in boxes. Next idea?

    Emma Brown
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My previous cat used to love plastic carrier bags. I had to open it and hold it while he ran from the end of the room and dived in. He was a beautiful but very strange cat. Died at the amazing old age of 20.

    AmAndA_Panda
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have 2 box shaped cat beds on my bed, and my cat loves them. But he still gets on my keyboard too.

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    #12

    Touch it’s ears, paws, and belly frequently to get it acclimated to those areas being handled.

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    Bored Retsuko
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think this applies to most pets.

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Edit - oh sorry you were trying to point out a punctuation error, my bad lol. Original answer: Yes - my shy cat Luka was very timid about his ears/head/face being touched, and hated having my face anywhere near him. I now have him at the point where I can scratch his ears and rub his cheeks and even kiss his head, due to a lot of patience and gentle persistence :) it’s his first birthday today and I’m going to get up and bbq some salmon for him as soon as I’m done this article!

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    Pangolin Pal
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not to mention, ears and paws and bellies are especially adorable!

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    yeah definitely 'bother' your animals gently. Don't teach them your hands are toys either.

    Miss Frankfurter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No problem. She comes up on the couch and flops beside me with her shoulders on my leg. Chin rubs, leg rubs, chest rubs and “belly guitar”. No problem at the vets at all.

    Emily
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Particularly the paws, for claw cutting. Plus, toebeans are fun to gently squish! Key word: gently. Start doing this when they're young (if you got them when they were young, that is).

    Lisa T
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cats let me nuzzle their bellies

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    #13

    Different cats in the kitchen It’s a good idea to get two cats, especially if you’re out of the house during the day. Not only will your cat be less lonely, but they’re also less likely to get destructive if they have someone to play with during the day.

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    Frankthetank
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah, definitely not a guarantee they will get along. I had litter-mate brother/ sister pair and they HATED each other- full on cat fights with abscesses. The key is to pair based on personality

    Jordi Sharpe
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes. That's why adopting from a shelter is a good idea because you can usually find a bonded pair. And the volunteers can tell you who gets along with who best.

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    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My mum called me last early December to confess that she wanted to buy me a kitten for Christmas but she wanted to make sure I was okay with it. Of course I was! She showed up at my house with a very guilty look on her face and said “I’m so sorry I couldn’t just adopt one” and pulled the towel off the pet carrier to reveal TWO KITTENS! :) it’s their 1st birthday today (I’ve probably said that in every comment on this thread but please wish Luka and Steve a happy birthday if you see this!)

    madbakes
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat strongly disagrees with this statement.

    Michael Reed
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have an older boy and a girl. They always cuddling, grooming each other and sleeping together. Until around 2am where she likes to sneak up, attack him and chase him all around apartment. He is pussy whipped and it hilarious to watch.

    k sand
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's what I thought too. So I did. Boy and a girl. The boy wants to play rough, as cats do. But he's large and muscular. She's petite, likes to wrestle at first, but he overpowers her. When I hear her hissing in the other room, if I don't rush out to break it up, there will be a giant puddle or wet spot (if it's on the carpet). She does that when stressed or cornered. If I had to do it over, I would have taken 2 boys...or 2 girls.

    Brittany Howard
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Usually opposite sex matches are better, but it also depends on the cats' personalities. Sounds like you have a pair whose personalities don't mesh. Have checked out the book Cat vs. Cat?

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    somed ay
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When I had two cats they encouraged each other in bad behavior.

    Wubba Lubba Dub Dub
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I just told this to my cat and now I'm in prison for treason so thanks a lot for this.

    Weed in the Garden
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cats are not pack animals, nor are they social. Be careful when trying to pair them up.

    Royal Stray
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cats are social, maybe not as much as dogs or humans but social non the less, they won't do well in isolation. There are very few species of animals that can be completely solitary. Instead think of cats like introverts, attention and socializing in small doses is good, too much might make them stressed. This of course varies from cat to cat where some can be more social than others.

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    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My last cat unfortunately had to be a single cat - she absolutely hated any other animal, no matter how slowly I tried introducing them. She loved every single person she ever met, but other cats were a no-go. The next time I get a new cat I'm hoping to get 2 kittens who already know each other.

    Claire B
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Eh. Cats are fine alone. Mine likes hanging with the rabbit though.

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    #14

    When petting a cat, watch the tail. A tip flip is annoyance, a tail thump means get away, and a twitch from the base means you're about two seconds from getting bit. Stop as soon as you see any of these, and your cat will respect you more and tolerate more petting in the future.

    njbrun01 Report

    Joyce mann
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat swishes her tail, when she wants me to play "throw" that is throw a treat and she will chase it

    Cavern Gill-Vernon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It doesn't matter what our cats do, my wife won't leave them alone. Lol

    Sally Signup
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    One of my cats is a constant tail-wagger, almost like a dog, so that bit of body language doesn't mean anything for her. My Siamese, though, will swish her tail when you say her name. My last cat would do that too. It's one way you can tell they know their names, even if they're otherwise ignoring you.

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Same! One of my cats does a few happy tail twitches when I pet him too, while he’s nuzzling into my hand with his eyes closed and purring, so I don’t think that’s annoyance….at least I hope not lol

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    Hecate DeMort
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat likes to use her tail to pet me, unfortunately, she has very little control over it and often thwacks me with it - she also thwacks herself (often in the face) with her tail. And before people ask, she will have come over to lie next to me and I will just be lying there trying to go to sleep when she feels she needs to pet me.

    DC
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cst comes after me if we don't play enough. Usually, we play butterfly, means ... a cloth butterfly on a string on a handle is her target, and she really throws herself in and around to get it ... also, this was the first who was allowed to touch her.

    EzzyStu
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Does not apply to all cats. One of mine has what we call a hyper tail. It is always moving or twitching, even when she is asleep. Her tells for annoyance and such are more often her ears. The other two cats mor closely match this post’s advice.

    Silre
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Miss Kitty does not go through these warning signs. Miss Kitty just bites

    Cavern Gill-Vernon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But none of our cats scratch and they only bite if we ignore them. And then, it's mostly to wake our eldest up for fuss

    Heather Menard
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat's tail thump meant she was happy

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    #15

    Gray cat lying on the ground near yellow ball Store-bought toys look fun to us humans, but most cats are perfectly happy to swat around things like bottle caps, pipe cleaners, and old playing cards.

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    Russ Whiteman
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Plastic rings from milk jugs have been the most popular among my cats for something a bit over 50 years now. I dread moving the refrigerator when we leave...

    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I often describe moving the sofa and appliances when their toy supply is low as "harvesting".

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    Chris berkley
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Any paper bag is like crack to my cats, they will play with all day, that and cardboard boxes, I have a corner in my apt that at this point looks like a shanty town of boxes and bags, but the cats love it

    k sand
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Empty packets of Sugar in the Raw crinkled up into a ball. Yes it looks like trash, but my boy loves when I flick it across the floor. Sometimes he brings it back...sort of like a cat version of Fetch.

    Peter Trudell Jr
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My Bob loved it when I would put one of those plastic jingle balls in the tub. (firm plastic with a bell inside). He LOVED to bat it up the tub and have it roll back down... Eventually he learned to drag it in the tub himself... in the middle of the night...

    Sharkie
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Any string, ribbon, cable or tube works for my cat. Best is one set of shoelaces. They are too thick for her to eat (she tried eating only really thin strings and after I stopped her and gave her thicker toys she never tried again), inexpensive, as safe as cotton string can be and easy to find for me because of bright color.

    Kallen Kneeland
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Mine love the leather laces made for boat shoes. Put a good sized knot on one end for gnawing and they'll make up games to play with them! And the laces last for years.

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    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ping pong balls in an empty bath.

    Bonesko
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah, I figured that out like $100 bucks later 😒

    Bouche Clay
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cats can eat hair binders. I saw a vet show where a cat had dozens around its intestines. The cat nearly died.

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    CatFist
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The Consumer Medication Information pamphlets inside my antidepressant boxes are folded just right that the cat (Tuesday Suit) just loves them! That, and grape stalks (bunches of grapes, without the grapes)

    Lord Rimuru
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Make a toy out of pipe cleaners and they will be entertained for hours

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    #16

    Give your cat running water. Some cats like flowing water and the filter helps keep the water fresh.

    preventivevet.com Report

    The Mom
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    All 3 of mine loves their sink like fountain.

    Miss Frankfurter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Was what my cat wanted as soon as I got up in the morning. She’d jump up on the bathroom counter and wait for me to turn on a little stream of water so she could get a drink.

    Atomicwoman07
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat, Artemis has a water fountain and a water bowl with fresh water, but she still prefers to drink from puddles!! She has a dirty bowl in the garden that she likes to drink from, so whenever I clean the bowl, I have to 'dirty' it by adding some soil and grass and leaves to it, otherwise she won't drink from that bowl either!

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a drinking fountain, and my cat certainly drinks more now, but still her favorite water source is the muddy rainwater on the balcony... cats are weird.

    Xenon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't keep their food and water close to their food. And separating the food from the water will encourage them to drink more water.

    Jordi Sharpe
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My sister got one years ago. It's fantastic. I don't know how much the filters cost, but they can't be too expensive.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    there are some cute fountains these days! But I'm a little leery of them bc plastic and ceramic can cause acne. My boy Critter needed a glass water bowl only or his lil chin would get all these zits on it poor child.

    Greymom
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They do make stainless steel ones. They’re a bit pricey but it’s worth it to avoid urinary issues

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    KING ILLEGAL FOREST
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I tried that with 2 of my current cats, and they were TERRIFIED of the fountain. I had to get rid of it.

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    #17

    Every pet owner should consider pet insurance. Even if you believe you have enough money to cover veterinary costs, pet insurance could still save you thousands of dollars if your pet gets sick or injured.

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    ItsJess
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This- just ONE emergency vet visit for my senior dog cost upwards of $5000. She was too old to be insured. Now we have pet insurance on our newly adopted 2 year old rescue dog.

    Brittany Howard
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This depends on the cost of the insurance and what it does/doesn't cover. I've found it more affordable and just as effective to open a savings account for vet emergencies and add money to it every month.

    Fiona De Franco
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Totally agree with this! I do the same after a really bad experience with a major UK insurer. I was paying a bigger premium by over 50 percent for one 7 yr old cat than I was for a 5 bedroom house. When she got sick they made it very difficult to claim for a fraction of the costs. The whole pet insurance industry is a total scam in my opinion.

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    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes! Years ago my cat fell off the balcony three floors down and had a complicated leg fracture, and I was so glad I had pet insurance. I didn't need to consider the finances of the surgery she needed, I could just do it. The insurance pays 80% of the total costs, and especially in that situation it was well worth it. The cat made a complete recovery, and is an elderly lady now! Since several months she's on kidney medication, and this is affordable because of the insurance. Of course, you pay for it every month, but that's a lot better to budget than a gigantic vet bill all at once.

    Diphylleia Grayi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It would be very useful for everyone, but unfortunately there is corruption, could be victims of that too :-\

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    i didn't even know pet insurance existed until recently!! That's so cool.

    Frank Bosch
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Remember an insurance company makes a profit, so only take insurance if you are not able to pay veterinarian costs. Better put some money aside every month.

    Brazen
    Community Member
    3 years ago

    This comment has been deleted.

    SexualHarassmentPanda
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes!!! I sell pet insurance and I can't tell you how many times I've seen it payout and help!! Buy it when their young don't wait till something happens.

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Does the coverage change when pets start to get older? I've only ever had insurance on my horses and they stop covering things when the animal gets to a certain age. It was great when my one horse was younger and had a serious injury, but at the time she passed away I was only allowed to have mortality coverage.

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    Batwench
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also, if you can afford it, go for the next level up of cover you think you will need. Trust me on this one from experience.

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    #18

    Cat and dog looking If you’re bringing a cat into a home with other pets or another pet into a home that already has a cat, don’t just put them together and hope everything works out. Cats tend to be very territorial, and they also need time to adjust to a new environment.

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    Frankthetank
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Jackson Galaxy has great tips for how to introduce cats and it really works. He's pretty dorky but his methods are very reliable.

    pink_panda
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You have to admire his commitment to his own vibe. Lol. He does have pretty solid cat advice though.

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    vglw
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have a three year old cat. I wanted a kitten, so we decided to get two kittens. If the older cat didn't like them, they would at least have each other. To introduce them in a safe way, we borrowed a kennel from the shelter for the kittens to be in. This way we had them in the main room, visible and near the older cat but protected if he became territorial. This was a great way for them all to be able to see each other, and gradually become used to one another. We only used the kennel for a week. It has been a couple of months now and the three of them play and snuggle and seem to be getting along great.

    Okatango
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There are so many excellent ways to introduce them properly and gently over time. Please do not rush it, it can cause the loss of a potential "forever" home for the newbie.

    Jordi Sharpe
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    With second pair, we put the new kitty in a bedroom with food, water, litter, a bed, scratcher, etc. Introduced them (2 boys) through the door. Only lasted an hour because they hit it off right away. But that's a delightful rarity. They need time to adjust to the new scents and new voices. Keeping them separated but near helps, at least in my experience.

    Emily Ducat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Your so lucky, it took me over a month to get my little noodle acclimated but she is a neurotic feral barn cat and was just a little bit too old when I got her. She's so high strung I can't bring any other animals into the house, which is a pity because I wanted to do fostering,.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This isn't common knowledge????

    EJN
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There is actually a lot of info on the net about how to introduce cats to other cats/pets so as to avoid problems. It really works too.

    Mojca Tomsic
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's how we got our two cats. Neighbours bought a dog and cats migrated to our house. We're all happy :)

    Heather Menard
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Put mine together and it was love at first sight

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    #19

    From an early age, touch your cat's feet and toes often. If they get used to having their toes handled, it is much easier to cut their nails later.

    old.reddit.com Report

    Jordi Sharpe
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Trim. They're not removing the claws, theyre trimming them. Cats can get their claws stuck in fabric if they're too long, and can injure themselves. They still have claws. They're just trimmed down. They can sharpen them again immediately.

    Sireyensid
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    never understood the need of cutting cat claws. a good scratching post and the job is done

    Aran Lindvail
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wait until the cat gets old and can't take care of herself anymore, then you have to trim the claws or they will become too long and grow into the toe beans. Bern there, done that. Also, if you have to take cats to the vet, it's quite nice if the claws aren't super sharp. Either way, if you don't get them used to it early on, you are not going to have a good time.

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    Penny Fan
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cats don't have nails they have claws...

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    yeah! and don't just touch, get them used to the gently pressing of you pushing their claws out too. i like to do this with cats just bc it's silly and fun. i'm a good 'botherer'. it's important to 'bother' your cats when they're little, so that you can monitor their health and clip their claws and things later on. just good husbandry for any animal.

    GlassHalfWay
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat doesn't mind having his claws trimmed. He has numerous scratching posts, but will still snag a blanket and get caught. It doesn't hurt him, he's puuuurfectly fine with it.

    Kendra Fischer
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wait.. why are so many people here against cutting cats claws? My cats claws are trimmed regularly to prevent injury by getting snagged on something or getting overgrown. They can still climb and do normal cat things and I don't end up bleeding every time i play with them. Declawing however is another thing and essentially an amputation. You should never declaw a cat.

    Kevin Stenzel
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    witch b***h is cutting the nails of cats? WTF?????????

    H M
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You don't need to cut their nails, provide a scratch surface, a mat will do.

    Emily
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think a lot of cat owners AND veterinarians would strongly disagree with you

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    #20

    A great way to keep your indoor cat active, particularly if you live in a smaller home, is to put up some shelves or towers for them to climb.

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    BatPhace
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My daughter's cats favorite places are on top of the shelf my fabric is stored in and on top of the china hutch 🤣 anything up. My cats too big to get up there too, so she can run him ragged then escape

    Weed in the Garden
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Some of the best advice here! Cats enjoy 'surveying their kingdom' and love to be higher up. Bonus - it gives them an escape from people and other animals when they need some down time.

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    #21

    scared cat with green eyes It’s time to stop spraying cats with water! Your cat starts to associate the unpleasant experience with you, and not necessarily his actions with the punishment.

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    Michelle Muirhead
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Initially I would spray with water (because they were jumping on the kitchen counter and terrified they might jump on the stove). I would make scoosh noise at the same time as spraying, didn't take long to just make the scoosh noise to prevent jumping.

    Jordi Sharpe
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I love that noise. It can stop a naughty kitty dead in their tracks.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nah. Cats aren't that dumb unless that's the only interaction you have with them, fam. And you use other cues first. 'NO.' and shaking the bottle in warning. And you gotta be consistent. And you gotta interact with them beyond that. AND, you have to interrupt them doing the action, not do it after.

    Dynein
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah, they are also smart and social enough to realize that it's a REaction to an action they did, if you are really consistent about it. Upsetting/angering other individuals is an existing concept in higher animals that have regular social interaction. So long as you have a very clearly defined and narrow definition of "things that upset me and make me treat you in an unpleasant way", and are otherwise nice and kind and trustworthy, most common pets shouldn't have a problem with it.

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    Daniel Atkins
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat will drink from the spray bottle she associates it with getting a drink and will go mess with it until you spray it in her mouth.

    Randy Klefbeck
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The trick is to not let the cat think it is you that is spraying them. That way they associate the spray with their consequential action, and not you.

    Got Banned But Now I'm Back
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The air spray cans used to clean electronics? That is the very best deterrent ever! No water spots to deal with. And at this point, all I have to do it tap the can, and my cat stops what he's doing!

    N Burnette
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    With 2 young kitties rushing the door when I got home, I would crack the door and spray water to get them back so that I could open the door fully to get in. I was terrified of them getting out and getting hurt. It didn't take long to graduate to opening the door a bit to throw a toy for them to chase away from the door. Didn't take long before I didn't have to do either. I'd take spraying towards them a bit over them getting out and ending up injured or worse.

    Brazen
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    One of my cats was smart enough to figure out that the water was coming from the water pistol I was using. He broke it the next day when I went to work. He was also my most cuddly cat, so I'm not sure what they said is true for all cats.

    SuePrew
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    don't let them see you do it

    Peter Trudell Jr
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    not to mention that in today's wired house, flying droplets of water is bad news for electronics.

    Okatango
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A few nights of placing crumpled aluminum foil and precariously placed cutlery does the trick: The resulting awful noise means they associate the counter as being scary, not the person.

    Brazen
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That has not worked for any of my cats over the years. I think they have nerves of steel. lol

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    #22

    Place pinecones in potted plants, because they're uncomfortable for your cat to step on and will keep them out.

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    Aunt Messy
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Crumpled tin foil works as well.

    Kise Miarse
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That is, of course, unless your cat likes to chew on foil. Like a little weirdo. 😹

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    Heather Talma
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cat: *puts its front paws on the edge of the pot and stretches up to eat the leaves*

    Okatango
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    chicken wire cut to size...

    me myself and i
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have a kitten that destroys our plants so I will definitely use this

    EzzyStu
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We tried this and our cats just dug them out to play with them.

    #23

    Cat looking Keeping your cat at home is the safest and least unsettling option when you go on holiday as they’re less likely to be stressed and will be more content in their own environment.

    cats.org.uk Report

    Royal Stray
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This really varies from cat to cat and is absolutely not a general rule

    Frankthetank
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not that true, a lot of cats are more unsettled staying home alone. I board and pet sit. More often, the cats do better going away and coming home to normalcy. 100% of the cats that hid from me and barely ate while staying at home did fantastic the next trip when I took them to my kennel. In 15 years, I've only had a couple cats that I've recommended the reverse.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's really interesting! I wonder if that is true with all cats, though, or if some cats are best your way and some are best staying home. I suppose it depends on the cat! 😺

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    Robert Benson
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a completely different kind of cat. I enjoys traveling. So I take him everywhere I go. But he's been traveling since he was just a few weeks old, doesn't get car sick and absolutely loves exploring while on a leash.

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't know about this, I think it's not a general rule, it depends on the cat. My cat is very shy and introverted towards people she doesn't know well. We now usually have a cat sitter that does daily visits, but for any of them it's very hard to win the trust of my cat. She doesn't let them come close. We had different sitters and my cat behaved in this way with all of them. When my mother was still alive, my cat went to stay at her place during our vacation. She always had to get used to the house the first day, but she knew and loved my mom, so it was soon all well and she had a good time there. It's a pity that this is not an option anymore.

    Jordi Sharpe
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm sort of an exception because my sister and I adopted the cats she currently has so they know me well, and I catsit for her and her boyfriend. They moved in together a few months ago and the cats went with her. I love being uncle and watching them for a few days a month. EDIT: Sorry, was directed to someone else.

    lazy_panda_jory
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It might depend on the cat, but in general cats are environment-orietated, not human-orientated. Cats generally prefer to stay in their own environment.

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    #24

    Leaving treats hidden around the house when leave. It means that cat looks forward to leaving instead of being anxious because he gets to go on a treasure hunt.

    MeowsTheHouseDown Report

    Janine B.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's what I do to keep them a little entertained. Also a huge box with paper streamers works wonders. Throw in some treats, they'll love it.

    Omi bub
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also the tubes from inside toilet roll work well to hide the treats inside

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    lmao see I just scatter a bunch of treats on the floor before I leave and when I get home. This helps train them not to be sad but also helps 'call' them, which can be good in emergencies.

    Hecate DeMort
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a treat maze and 'wobbly' treat dispensers for my cat but she will often just sleep while I am out and then when I get home find the treats for the first time. She also will sometimes leave a treat on the floor to return to later and her expression is always absolute wonder that she has found a treat - I'm not sure she is very clever or aware of the world.

    Eunice Bentley
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat and my dog were both happy to see us leave because they got to look for their treats. Usually had them all consumed before the door closed.

    Maria von Gustafson
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm thinking this works on dogs as well. Tjanks! 👍

    #25

    Cuddling cat Avoid letting the cat play with your hands. Letting your cat play wrestle with your hands teaches them that biting and scratching is an acceptable behavior.

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    Synsepalum
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yup, hands are for love, and toys are for play.

    Lord Rimuru
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not for everyone. My cat uses mine for both. You just have to get used to scratches or have a good pain tolerance.

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    Sireyensid
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    oh so wrong. Let it play, as soon as it bites you or use its clow, stop the play and ignore it for 2-3 minutes. They'll understand you're hurt and will stop the biting and clawing

    Morgis Arts
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Our cat loves to sneak up and bite/grab, as well as wrestle. He got sharp claws, but he doesn't use them when playing since he's been taught not to. He scratched my younger brother once accidentally, and got really upset, snuggling up to him and licking him. Got a heart of gold <3

    Amber.exe (She/They)
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat loves to play with my hand he doesn't bite it or scratch it just kinda holds it

    DC
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    ... stupid humans my cat had before me threw her the "cat handling glove" to play with. And old, single, winter motorcycling-glove they were using to handle cats against their will. I can't pick her up, 1.5 years into living with me, and eventually get my hand mistreated as a toy. I'll love that out of her, too, but ... why were they so clueless about how to cat?

    Clover
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I learned this the hard way, with my first cat. All the others after that I did not play with them with my hands, and they were fine.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    hands/feet are not toys!! Glad to see this tip but it should be higher!

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    #26

    Store dry cat food in a plastic pitcher or cereal container. Leaving your cat’s food in the opened bag runs the risk of letting it get stale.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    that and mice often will help themselves by chewing through the bag.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    if the cat themself doesn't do the same lol! XD

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I put literally everything in a tupperware or zip bag as soon as it gets opened. just how i was raised.

    Francesca Annoni
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not with my cats.. they eat cat food at the speed of light (with my kids chips bags can't get stale in the same way)

    Okatango
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    and those awful brown and rust coloured bugs and their larvae spoil it.

    Jordi Sharpe
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lol. My sister's two current cats: one's food is in a lovely owl cookie jar, the other's is in an ugly plastic tub 🤣

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    #27

    Brown cat chewing stick If your cat goes crazy for catnip, consider growing your own. Catnip is relatively easy to grow in pots, and it’ll give you an endless supply of fun. Make sure to keep the pots out of kitty’s reach until you’re ready.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I once planted catnip in a neighbour's garden that was a particular pain. He came out to find a lot of his plants flattened.

    Shane S
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Kitts these days. They come in your yard. Smoke their drugs. And leave a mess.

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    Brazen
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The brother/sister pair of cats we got do not care one bit about catnip. I thought maybe dried catnip from the store was the issue, so I grew some myself....still did not care. My previous 2 kitties would find a way to steal it if I didn't lock it away properly. Got to love cats. :)

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cats rub on catnip because catnip has pest-repellent properties! So they evolved to have the instinct to rub bc it helps them avoid parasites! Science learned that recently I thought that was cool.

    Craig Silberman
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    kitty loves his catnip plant, and the neighbors' cats love the catnip plants I put outside

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I tried this once, grew catnip from seeds. Kept the plants shut away from the cats until the plants were large enough. Took less than 24 hours for the cats to completely destroy them 😅

    Peter Trudell Jr
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Bought pet grass for my boy. He'd pull the stuff up, roots and all. Never got it to grow!

    Evily
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Best thing I did for my elderly cat was grow catnip outside. It’s also pretty. He loves it.

    Blayze Infyrno
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ha! Nothing is out of the reach of a determined cat!

    #28

    Providing a cat-friendly climbing alternative not only protects your collectibles, but it affords items which may be destined for the landfill, a new purpose in life.

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    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And buy decoy collectibles for it, so they have stuff to knock on the floor, or your collectibles still aren’t safe lol ♥️🐾

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    LOL, that's a great idea. Mine only knocks stuff down to get my attention if she thinks I'm not worshipping her enough. :)

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    #29

    You can build your own cat tent with some basic items that you'll already have at home. Using wire coat hangers make a frame like a tent, with two hangers crossing each other over the top and place an old t-shirt over the frame.

    instructables.com Report

    urszulat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    One of my cats loved newspapers. I built him a tent with boxes and newspaper linking the boxes. He was in heaven.

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I usually make a tent with chairs or a drying rack and some blankets on New Years Eve. My cat hates fireworks and tends to hide to feel safe. Every time I made such a cat tent, she used it gratefully. I think she likes it because it's a comfortable hiding spot and still near us.

    Penny Hernandez
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When bringing a new baby home, (to either dogs or cats) first bring something that smells like the new baby for the fur babies the day before.

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    #30

    Cat lying on the sofa Safeguard your sofa. Setting up decoy scratching posts, you can give cats a place to mark, stretch, and trim their nails, without damaging your belongings.

    petmd.com Report

    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I once had a lady come into the shelter to adopt. I asked her if she had a scratch post, her response "no, I have a sofa". Give the lady a cat. And she also became a volunteer with us for many years.

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You either have nice furniture or cats. I prefer my cats. Although they have numerous scratching posts they have totally shredded one side of my settee.

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes, I see it as a part of the deal of having a cat. She has a good scratching post that she actually uses, but she still also likes the couch... When I would have to choose between spotless furniture and the love of a cat, I'll take the latter.

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    Fiona De Franco
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Double sided tape on furnishings etc where they scratch is very effective. Even with 3 scratching posts and 2 cat trees my cat can't resist the couch!

    Joyce mann
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a scratch post and every time she used it, she got a treat, helped a lot

    Eunice Bentley
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Gave my cat his own footstool the first day he came to live with us. That thing was ugly, he loved it. It was also his catnip station.

    Marek Čtrnáct
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My armchair got quite busted by our previous cat, so I just let the current ones scratch it. They can't make it any worse.

    Susan
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Double sided sticky tape on areas prone to being plucked on your sofa works perfectly and you can't see it.

    Anna Repp
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wish our cat used the sofa or my bed. Instead, she chose the door!

    Emily
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Decoy" scratching posts? Why not just buy or make actual scratching posts and put catnip on them to encourage kitty to use them and not your sofa? You can even pick up kitty, take them to the scratching post and hold their paws up to the scratching post to mime the action of using the scratching post and they should learn how to use it. Why a decoy? Why not the real thing?

    Max Robitzsch
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Decoy" as in "decoying them away from the stuff they aren't supposed to touch", I think, not as in "scratch posts that don't work.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Literally a scratching post is as compulsory as food and a litter box??? Do people not consider this??? my god.

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    #31

    Build a "catio" so your kitties can experience a taste of the outdoors.

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    Rider
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wish, but landlord wont let us enclose the patio. Plus can't let them see how many I actually have.

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wish, but I don't have the space...

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I kind of disagree with catios tbh. I mean if you want one cool but I just think it's setting the cat up to door-dart and get outside when they shouldn't. :\

    Miss Frankfurter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Will be doing that with a large fence enclosure so she can lay out there.

    Sireyensid
    Community Member
    3 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    just let it go outside, they're smart and know how to hide when needed

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Um, no. That's a great way to get your cat killed.

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    #32

    Spend a few extra moments in the morning or evening brushing down your cat, and you'll have less fur on all your furniture!

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    Lord Rimuru
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or get a roomba. Cats will use that as a throne.

    Noltha
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Roomba will not do the brushing which some cats really love.

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    #33

    Such a simple one but if kitty hated going in the carrier and splays out, turn the carrier so the door is facing the ceiling. Tuck kitty into a ball and drop into carrier butt first.

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    Jude Laskowski
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My vet taught me this trick with one of my recalcitrant cats.

    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had one fellow arrive with his surrender and his arms were pretty chewed up. I told him in the future to drop a beach towel over the cat, wrap the whole mess into a ball and throw it in quick and slam the door. By the time it gets out of the towel you are already on your way out the door.

    Jude Laskowski
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Don't slam the door as you'll freak the cat out even more.

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    Rider
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If i know I have to transport them, I set the carrier out 24-28hrs in advance. They enjoy playing and sleeping in it. I'd leave it out all the time, but haven't found the space for it yet.

    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Only if the kitty LETS u tuck her in a ball. Tried this, still got clawed, tried everything!☹️ I tried leaving the carrier with all the doors open and she loves sleeping & chilling in there, but she always somehow knows when when something’s up. I thought maybe it was my “vibes” and changed my mindset when I tried, but Nope. I’m beginning to wonder if she understands more than I think & hears me making her vet appointments Lol

    Fluffy Griffin
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They sell carriers with top loading doors. They are the best!

    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat was awful about being in the carrier until I tried one of those pheromone spray/wipes products. Once I wiped the inside of the carrier down with she was like a new cat and would just chill out in there. It was amazing. I was totally skeptic so I waited way too long to try it.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    have the carrier out in the house as a little bed. Let them interact with it like it's just one of their lil tents or beds and then when you gotta put them in it they don't mind. it's not hard.

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    #34

    If you have multiple cats and enough room in your home, it’s highly recommended that you have one litter box for every cat, as well as an extra litter box. Many cats don’t like sharing litter boxes, and even if they don’t mind, it’s still good to have extras in case one is occupied, full, or otherwise inaccessible.

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    Ace
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Enough toilet space inside and preferably outside as well is a good thing, but they don't have any concept of personal toilets, so even if you have more than one, IME, they all tend to use the same one unless/until it starts to fill up. So if we're good enough to clean the litter frequently, even our four cats, in the depths of an Alpine winter, will all normally use just one of the two boxes we have inside.

    Jessica Stringer
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We have a large number of cat's, inside and outside. Some sleep in at night while others sleep outside but they all come in and out as they please so I at one point had 4 sometimes 5 boxes out in the house, now we only have 2 in the house and two placed in different locations in the yard. Our fur babies will watch me clean the boxes out and immediately use them once I'm done.

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    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have 3 litter boxes. Two of mine refuse to use a litter box unless it’s an emergency. Three of them like to use the litter boxes and go outside to do their business. The 2 youngsters use nothing but the litter boxes. They’ve even used it when I’ve put it outside whilst I clean the kitchen much to a neighbours amusement. These 5 will also dash into the house, use the litter box and then go back outside.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah I'm... I'm not sure this is true, personally. We had 3 cats and 1 box and never had any issues.

    #35

    Make your cats less aggressive toward each other. Separate their resources. Reduce competition between the cats by providing multiple, identical food bowls, beds and litter boxes in different areas of your house.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A good rule of thumb is to have one more litter boxes than you have cats.

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have one cat and two litter boxes, one on each floor of my house. That's also a good thing now my cat is getting old, she doesn't need to walk far for a litterbox, wherever she is.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or just only have fixed male cats lol!!! but yeah separate food dishes are helpful, though we always free-feed so idk they just eat when they want. and they sleep together but like... they don't have beds? They just sleep where they want. definitely make sure everybody has enough space idk why this even has to be said???

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    #36

    If you're tight on space, create a tiny hammock for your cat.

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    Michelle Muirhead
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can buy ones that stick to your windows.

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I just bought one for $25! They’re pretty cheap, even if you have to go through amazon

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    Deborah B
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    For tight spaces, try a wall hung scratching pad, or one designed to fit around a table leg, instead of a traditional post or mat.

    #37

    Add green tea to the litter box to reduce odour.

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    Shane S
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I doubt this works. And it’s a waste of good tea. If you keep a litter box clean, it won’t stink.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm not sure how safe that is. Just use a vertical box that's covered and scoop it every day. I swear by my vertical box + litter genie setup.

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    #38

    Deep clean their collars. They harbour a lot of dirt, grime and bacteria so make sure they're kept fresh and clean.

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    Fraxinus excelsior
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    More importantly, make sure their collars are the type that release if they are caught on something.

    Bonesko
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    How often should you wash your cats collar?

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’ve given up with collars. They always manage to lose them.

    #39

    Get a cat tracker. Look for one that is lightweight, small enough to attach, and either makes a noise or has an app that does when you near it.

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    Michael Jones
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’ll be using this hack for all of eternity! 😻seriously I needed this! YOU ARE A LIFESAVER AND GENIUS!

    Michelle Muirhead
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    better still, build a catio or cat-net your yard.

    Denise Melek
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Saved me so many nerves and time.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    'cat tracker' you mean a bell on their collar? XD

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    #40

    Use what’s in your kitchen to reduce litter box odors.Using a little baking soda or deodorizer in your litter box can go a long way to a fresher house.

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    Jihana
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you have a problem with litter boxes, don't get a cat. Putting chemicals in the littler might harm the cat, or it smells so bad that the cat will refuse to use it. That "trick" is just dumb.

    BatPhace
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Except baking soda is all natural and safe to use in litter and carpet with cats, actually its safer than a lot of litters with deodorizer or heavy fragrances

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    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    How about just doing a quick clean every day. Takes less than 5 mins as long as the litter clumps. For non-clumping litter, quick clean the poop out daily and do a full overhaul once a week. Pets aren't cheap if you take care of them properly.

    Janine B.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Buy proper cat litter and clean at least once a day. And have a litter box for each cat plus one. So two cats, three litter boxes. And don't use the small ones. I never had a problem with smelly cat litter.

    #41

    Put blankets and pillows near windows. If your cat likes to watch the world go by out the window, let them do it in comfort. You can also facilitate the perfect nap time by putting blankets and pillows on high perches like tall bookshelves.

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    Craig Silberman
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    or carpet remnants; I used carpet remnants for all sorts of cat-related things

    Phil Green
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ours likes to lie on the sill with one arm stretched along the radiator.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    cats be loving minky. our cats were not reliable about sitting in boxes but if you put a minky blankie they would just sit on it immediately.

    Rider
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I put blankets everywhere. Helps with hair, vomit, and flea control. Just toss it in the wash and cleanup done.

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    #42

    Never give a cat a treat without it having to work for it. Training your cat has important benefits. You’re stimulating his body and his mind, which helps keep him healthy.

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    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Mine only get treats when I leave the house. They know I'm leaving depending on what I wear lol

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't agree with this. Giving my cat a treat is a way of sharing my love, not necessarily a training thing.

    Lord Rimuru
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I give my cat treats if he gets terrified to calm him down. And I pet him for a long time afterwards so he knows he is safe.

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    #43

    When you need to take either to the vet, leave the kitty carrier out for a few days before. The carrier will become less intimidating when it is a treat-bearing part of the daily scenery at home.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I always leave one out, it makes any trip in the car so much easier.

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I tucked mine under a corner desk and sometimes I find the cats sleeping in there :) makes it a lot easier to wrangle them for car trips.

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    Craig Silberman
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    kitty loves his carrier; he views it as a safe space when we're at the beach, in the park, or in the car (where the carrier usually is)

    Eleanor Abernathy
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat loves his carrier, he usually sleeps in it. He only doesn't love it when it's locked...

    #44

    To encourage your cat to drink more water is make sure that you place their food bowl away from their water bowl.

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    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cats have no problem with water next to their food. I think this is better advice for if you notice your cats not drinking enough.

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    Jude Laskowski
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm in a small apartment, and feed my cat mostly canned food, which he eats right away. I have his dining area set up with his large water bowl and a small bowl for his snacks. He drinks enough. I guess not every cat is the same.

    #45

    Wean your cat from destroying furniture. Cats do not tolerate the smell of citrus, use this feature for their own purposes. Sprinkle all the favorite surfaces that the cat wants to scratch.

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    Tamsyn Dalton
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    *Most* cats don't like citrus. Some are blasé about. I had a cat who ate clementines with me.

    Janine B.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh, I thought any citrus fruit were absolutely bad for cats?

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    destroying furniture is not a normal cat behaviour??? like just give them scratchy posts and this will not happen tf.

    Freya the Wanderer
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Rubbing citrus peels or juice on power cords will keep your cat from chewing on them. Beer works as well - nearly all, if not all, cats HATE the smell of beer. Every cat I've had recoiled from beer.

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    #46

    Stop cat food spills with rubber boot mats.

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    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unless you have a cat that insists on dragging food out of the bowl, off the mat and on to the floor. Yes, Jasper. You.

    #47

    When your cat wants attention or just accepts it from you, give it some but stop a bit before it gets bored or annoyed. Usually, it will build a craving for your touch rather than trying to get away. The converse is true also.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    this is so meanly phrased please don't withhold affection from your cats so they get needy. That's mean and abusive. Just learn how to observe their body language so you know when to stop or when they're annoyed. Cats get overstimulated and they are not toys or subserviants they are little friends and you need to respect their consent!

    #48

    Serve cat food on a shallow plate to prevent speed eating.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yup, mash it down really good. It takes them longer to eat their meal and the chances of them throwing up is greatly decreased.

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    #49

    Try to vary feeding times. Make it so that your cats are fed when you’re ready to feed them to prevent them hassling you beforehand.

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    Miss Frankfurter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nope. She has a watch hidden somewhere on her. How she knows what time I don’t know. I’m retired, so I don’t mind and I think she’s pretty smart to know the times.

    Robert Benson
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cats and humans have an excellent circadian clock. If we eat at the same time every day, the digestive system get trained. Then, just before feeding time, digestive juices flow. This is what causes us to "feel hungry" If we vary the time we eat enough, we can curb this hungry feeling both in our cats and ourselves. But I think the variation must be on the order of 2 hours or more. I had 3 cats that I consistently fed at the same time every day, and they would start meowing 15-20 minutes before feeding time, especially annoying if I wanted to sleep in. After doing "random feeding"... no more meowing, but the transition was probably a month or so.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I just free feed like their dish always has kibbles in it and I just top it up???

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    #50

    Make a window perch for your cat to see what's going on outside.

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    Lana
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I ordered a window perch for each of my cats and they LOVE the perches

    Cecily Holland
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It’s called the dining room table which doesn’t get used for dining

    #51

    Use a cat tooth paste that has an enzyme that cleans their teeth and breath. It also helps that its like a soft at treat!

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    ItsJess
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    PLEASE take care of your cat's and dog's teeth, as much as you can. Every animal tolerates or is able to be trained to accept it to varying degrees, but dental work can get expensive (I'm a dental hygienist who also had a dog with dental disease- our dog had a yearly exam and cleaning with extractions and it usually cost about $1k). My husband had a cat growing up who died from a periodontal infection. Our new dog has been trained to expect and enjoy getting her teeth brushed every night after she goes out for the last time. I started by putting the pet toothpaste on my finger and letting her lick it off. Then I progressed to wiggling my bare finger in her mouth and against her teeth as she was licking the toothpaste. Then I started introducing the pet toothbrush- just letting her lick the toothpaste off and getting used to it. Then I finally started wiggling my finger (finger toothbrush) around in her mouth and finally brushing different parts of her mouth each night.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    thank you for this advice! I grew up just not knowing you had to take care of your pet's teeth, so this is new to me!

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    #52

    Use a rubber glove to get the cat hair off your couch.

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    #53

    Cats love houseplants, but they hate citrus. Place a few orange peels either in the pot or around the pot to deter a mischievous cat. It will help stop your cat from both eating your plants and digging in the dirt.

    Report

    Craig Silberman
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    many houseplants are toxic to cats, which is why I I have catnip plants

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    or... don't have plants if you have cats. ??? like just pick one. or have fake plants that don't have dirt??? MOST plants people use as houseplants are toxic to cats, it's safer to just not have plants at all.

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    #54

    Using wet hands to wipe off cat hair. When you do stroke your pet, the water will actually help the loose hair on your pet stick to your hands.

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    Robert Benson
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I would say... damp hands, not dripping wet. I keep a bowl of water next to me, rub all through the hair and wipe the hair into the trash. Keep dipping your hands. It also works to help take out any litter that might be stuck in the coat or toes

    KAYLA CURRY
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    cats hate water though u sure they wont hate their owner afterward?

    me myself and i
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A lot of cats enjoy little bits of water, it's refreshing. I love in a really hot place though so that might be it

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    Janine B.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Also a good way to keep them a little cooler during the summer.

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    #55

    Cover exposed cords with split tubing to keep your cats from chewing through them.

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    Everydayhuman83
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We Don't Want The Poor Kitty From National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    yeah definitely cat proof your house please good lord.

    #56

    Rubber brooms are a wonderful tool in removing stubborn hair from carpets and floors.

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    #57

    Try to stick to wet and dry food balance. This may be particularly useful with cats who require a higher water intake but enjoy eating dry better than canned.

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    #58

    Calm your cat down. The most common situations that trigger the need to help calm a cat are run-ins with other cats, unfamiliar people, dogs, noises, new environments, car rides, visits to the veterinarian, and even handling. Try to keep the noises low around your cat, especially when she may be getting stressed due to an unfamiliar environment or person.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It also helps to head to the health food store to buy a bottle of Bach's Rescue Remedy.

    #59

    Clicker train daily for a couple minutes. It calms down a wound up spindly wily feline soul so that everyone can blissfully sleep all night long.

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    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I once attempted to train my cats.They went “B*tch please” and walked away 🤷🏻‍♀️

    #60

    If you have hairball problems, red wheatgrass can help with digestion

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    Joyce mann
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Only if your cat will eat any of that

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    or you know, hairball medicine. or canned pumpkin.

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    #61

    Put tin foil around areas where you don’t want your cat to go. Cats hate the crinkly feel and sound of tinfoil.

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    Nate Wu
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not all cats hate it. My cat likes to chew tin foil!

    Chris berkley
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My dead cat loves anything crinkly, parchment paper, plastic bags, and aluminum foil, but he is a weirdo and I love him

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    Lara M
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unless they knock the tinfoil off the surface and then get on.

    Rider
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Mine knocked it down then knocked over the paper towels and unrolled it into a bed. The look on her face was "Have you learned your lesson human."

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    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Mine love scrunched up tin foil. They chase it outside for ages.

    k sand
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When i was a kid we were in the process of getting a siamese kitten. Somehow it ate some tin foil at the breeder's. She had to have surgery. Apparently it had damaged her intestines. The vet took her home to recover and ended up getting to keep her..

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    #62

    Attach a brush to the wall. This way your cat can brush themselves.

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    Upstaged75
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I bought one of those things thinking it was a great idea. My cat thought it was the dumbest thing she'd ever seen. :)

    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have one. My boys use it for clawing and stimulating their gums 🤦🏼‍♀️

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    before these were a thing i knew a big fluffy orange man who would just like, comb himself. You held the comb up and sat at his special combing table and he would just rub against it back and forth and comb his own self. Forever if you let him lol! Bless him. He was a great fella.

    #63

    Use dryer sheets to remove cat hair from clothes. It removes hair and leaves behind a fresh scent.

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    #64

    Make a condo for your cats. They are great for houses with children or dogs because they will give the cat a place to hide in.

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    #65

    Don't scold the cat. Pets often have no idea what just happened or why you’re yelling at them.

    Report

    Squirrelly Panda
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    With dogs at least, (and I presume with cats) a quick "bark" (yelling no, or anything that gets their startled, but not scared attention) then while you have their attention (thereby not currently doing the bad thing) you switch to happy pleased rewardy type behavior. The dog (and in my limited experience, the cat) quickly learns that certain behaviors mean getting startled and tend to avoid it. And also learn that looking to me when startled means rewards.

    Hecate DeMort
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have found for my cat a sharp clap sound seems to have worked as a deterrent from continuing the behaviour - normally its clawing the carpet or my sewing mats, she has 3 scratching posts but the carpet and mats are just so much more fun.

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    #66

    Harsh cleaning chemicals can be harmful to cats so try using home-made solutions when you need to clean up cat pee. Vinegar is excellent at killing bacteria, so put it to work.

    petmd.com Report

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Vinegar is great stuff, cheap too. I dilute it 1:1 for animals, but it's the only thing gentle enough to use with bunnies, so it's safe for cats also.

    Gigi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    vinegar is a harsh acid that destroys everything it comes in contact with. it's the worst possible idea to use this around a cat. I don't know how vinegar (and baking soda, which at least perfectly neutralizes it, is perfectly ineffective) has become the magic potion of the 21st century, people should see the damage it does to all organic and inorganic surfaces

    Aiden Brough
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cat pee contains enzymes which are extreme resilient. Although I agree with that the use of vinegar isn't the best thing to use (simply because it leaves a smell) I have to say that a biological response is needed to neutralise any pee. There are plenty of sprays on the market which are cat friendly but old fashion baking soda, washing powder and lots of elbow grease seems to do the trick.

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    #67

    Make them a bed of grass. A grass bed, much like a box, provides a safe space for your cat to hide and feel secure.

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    Joyce mann
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Tried that once, my cat ate it and barfed

    Hecate DeMort
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat has a tray of grass that she uses as a starter and palate cleanser when she is hungry - we don't get hairballs (and she is a medium length hair cat) that often and the vet believes it may be that for her the grass just helps the hair pass through her system.

    #68

    If you need to bathe your cat, do it in the sink as opposed to the bathtub.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    lol!!! I put on my heaviest jeans and my leather jacket and do it in the bathtub and just get wet myself. The clothing is armour btw. But do try and be gentle as you can, bc sometimes you do need to bathe them for whatever reason. It helps to run the water first so there's no big scary noise happening when you get them in there.

    Caroline Sinclair
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Easier on your back, and easier to control the cat!

    #69

    Cleaning out your litter box can be painstaking and messy. A litter that clumps will make scooping easier, however, as it’ll be obvious where you need to scoop and whether you’ve gotten it all.

    petmd.com Report

    Shane S
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It took me 10 years to learn that you need to invest in a good scoop. Those 99 cent scoops are horrible and make scooping a chore. INVEST in the $15 long-handled, durable scoop. It’s worth it. I promise!

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I was just thinking about how much I hate my dollar store scoop 😅 I’ll try your advice!

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    Rens
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Because of my chronic illnesses, I struggle with daily litter clearing; I invested in a sifting litter box, with a hood, and a handle which tips the litter tray. The litter slides through a grate into a reservoir, while the solids and clumps tip into a drawer in the bottom. I use liners in both the litter tray and the drawer for easy cleanup, only the grate itself gets dirty (easy enough to clean with a brush and vinegar spray)

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes, clumping litter is very practical and also cheaper, because most times you only have to scoop out the poop and clumps. (Of course I throw all the litter away once in a while to clean the litterbox.)

    Rider
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I tilt the box to shift the littler and clumps to the center. No trying to scrape it off the sides. Oh if you use liners, try the ones with elastic instead of drawstring, no more bag slippage.

    Miss Frankfurter
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I use a small compost bucket with a handle and a lid with an odour absorbing filter in the lid. The bag smells slightly minty. Works great for daily or twice daily scooping.

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is why I only use fullers earth cat litter. Until one day we’ve dug up all the clay.

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    #70

    If your cat has trouble with hairballs, use kitty grass, which will provide fiber.

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    Lyrica Melody
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can also cut or pull up grass from outside, and leave it in a dish for them. I pick some at least once a week most of the year, and my cats immediately start munching away. We use winter rye or Bermuda grass, but many other varieties are good as long as they've not been sprayed with anything and they're not toxic to cats (there's some great websites with info to help with that). If I can find it, I'll also pick at least a few longer blades or stems to use as impromptu toys; I let them chase it until it starts to get tattered, then leave them to devour their "prey" after one last good pounce. Conveniently, this also gives me an excuse not to weed-eat the edges of my yard, so it's a win-win for me, too. :)

    N Burnette
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'd get some from my parents yard bc I knew they didn't use chemicals on their lawn. I don't know what all they use at my condo!

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    Shane S
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cat grass makes my cat throw up sometimes. I know because she will vomit long blades of the grass she swallows whole.

    Teri Murphy
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Regular Vaseline works just fine on top of a paw!!! They learn it helps coughing up hair or passing it,,either way it works my cats are 23 & 16 years old!!! Lol

    Joyce mann
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Kitty grass makes my cat barf

    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I was once in a grocery store and had a little grass planter with my stuff. The lady behind me had a huge box of corn flakes fall over on top of it. She was so sorry and felt much better when I assured her that it was for the cat and was not some pathetic little house plant I was buying.

    #71

    Hide the litter box inside a chest or cabinet.

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    #72

    Make food-dish shelves to keep your cat's food out of reach from the dog.

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    k sand
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And dog-proof barrier from the litter box. I found that out the hard way.

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    #73

    Cats are more attached to places than people. If you move, don't be surprised if your cat wanders off to find its way home. Prevent this by having a kitty paradise ready in your new abode: lots of obviously available food and water, toys, litter, and interesting kitty places to explore.

    njbrun01 Report

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    KEEP. YOUR CATS. INSIDE. ffs.

    N Burnette
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wish I could upvote this a bazillion times!

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    Deborah B
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you have an indoor cat, and there's any chance they might slip out an open door or window, it's a good idea to familiarise them with the ouside of the property. Take them out on a leash, and let them sniff around the garden and walk them back to the door. If you do this a couple of times, the cat knows where to run to if it gets out and panics.

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    #74

    Never disagree with them. Make them passively want to do what you want them to. Similarly - if they're wired to behave some way... yield unless it's a problem.

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    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Here’s mine: “Skittles, stop shredding mommy’s couch and use your brand new scratching post/kitty tower that’s been sitting right there beside the couch, unused, for 3 months” ? ♾ ? ♾ ? Lol

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is weirdly phrased but I *think* I get what it's saying. And yeah there's never any need to 'force' your animals. If you feel the need to be THAT controlling you are a problem and shouldn't have care of ANY animals.

    Rider
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Positive reinforcement. I snap and tell them no, when they stop I give them positive attention. When they do something like use the scratching post I give them positive attention. This of course is in additions to making sure they have what they need like scratching post, toys, etc.

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    #75

    Tuck a wand toy into a pocket or tie a piece of fleece onto a belt loop when cleaning. It's close enough to random movements that cat loves to chase.

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    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Be sure to wear shorts for a more authentic Murder Mitten Experience 💗😉

    #76

    Make your own cat scratcher with what you have around the house. Or get a carpet sample for free.

    Report

    K- THULU
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I do.... A leather armchair, an antique rocking chair,the carpet, my legs.....

    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    With an unused scratching post in the same room Lolol

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    #77

    Put double-sided tape on surfaces where you don’t want your cat to jump up on. Cat soon learn to avoid these areas as they'll think there will be something sticky on it.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    i cannot imagine how this wouldn't cause massive filth and dust build up. Just spray them consistently tf.

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or just change the tape once in a while? Double sided tape is cheap. I actually have leather furniture - I don’t like the plastic waste from tape so once a month I rub the bottom half of the furniture with a leather conditioner mixed with a few drops of lemon and tea tree essential oils, the cats hate getting the scent on their toesies so it works well :)

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    #78

    Empty milk cartons can be used to create a kitty litter scoop.

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    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Broke? In a situation where you really need a cat scoop but all you have is a milk carton? Or, like me last year - broke the scoop in half while drunkenly cleaning the litter box at 1am and needed a substitute? (I tried to make a cardboard scoop lol it was awful)

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    #79

    Use a real tree as a stylish cat scratching and climbing post.

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    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wish that was a realistic option!

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Impractical in a tiny house!

    #80

    Draw a circle around your pet's food bowl with chalk to keep ants away.

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    Meester Chad
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Drawing a pentagram also keeps kids away

    FrillyDragon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We already summoned the cat, do we really want to summon demons too? /j

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    Freya the Wanderer
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cloves are very effective at keeping ants away. Whenever ants invaded my house, I sprinkled cloves where they were going, and did they skedaddle!

    #81

    Ice cubes frozen alongside a few kitty-tidbits is, a great toy that will also help keep your cat nice and cool on hot summer days.

    bluecross.org.uk Report

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ice is such a good summer toy for all animals!

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    #82

    Start brushing its teeth now. It’s hard to start this on grown adult cats.

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    #83

    Entertain them for hours with a home-made cat puzzle.

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    ItsJess
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Would be helpful to explain "cat puzzle"

    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Putting stuff back on a shelf/table that your cat purposely knocked onto the floor so he can knock it off again…? Lol

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    Rider
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If you have a shallow box cut circles in the top and sides and put some ping pong balls in. I'd put it out for them them for a week, put it away for 2 weeks. They played with that thing for a year before the box lost it's shape and was recycled.

    #84

    If your cat has ruined your screen door or window, there’s a fix for that. Buy tape repair kits for screens that have a mesh pattern.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There's also 'cat proof' screen meshes that are heavier duty.

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the UK we don’t have screen doors. I’m not too sure what they’re supposed to do/be for.

    Spittnimage
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Keeps bugs out of the house and you can still have a breeze come thru it.

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    #85

    Don't bathe your cat. In addition, with their barbed tongues, they are usually capable of keeping their own coats clean without any help from their humans.

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    Jude Laskowski
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the span of 50 years, I have lived with 19 cats, and have never bathed one.

    D Kirk
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My car doesn't lick herself, had her since she was one day old. Maybe this is a learned behavior?

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    if she didn't have a mom to teach her then yeah it's a problem and you should consult with a vet about it bc she needs to learn how to lick herself.

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    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’ve lost count of the number of times my Millie (long haired moggy) has had to go for a full shave because she only cleans her face and paws. She gets so matted and has never let anyone brush her in 13 years.

    FrillyDragon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    eh, depends. You may ned to if they get really dirty or get in something bad for them that can make them sick. Or, in our kitten's case, to tell fleas to GTFO if they get them before you give them flea treatment. Our vet told us to bathe the kittens with a little bit of dish soap. Cats weren't particularly happy, but it got rid of most of the fleas for a bit until we could get them some flea meds!

    Shane S
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Potentially bad advice. Some breeds need regular grooming. And some don’t. Ask your vet.

    Philenzortia
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Mine has had some trips to the chimney so yeah... He has been bathe several times. He's a freaking genius and knows how to open the door of the chimney -.- But we are in a good strike of zero chimney adventures in almost a year.

    Pumpkin Spice
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    USUALLY. You NEED to bathe your cat at least once every 6 weeks. If they roll in something toxic and try to lick it off, or their fur becomes matted....

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    #86

    If you tried and failed to train them, transition from free feeding to meal times can be the solution. No need to decrease how much you feed them, still works if the meals are frequent.

    Loulouisthis Report

    #87

    Invest in a pheromone diffuser. The diffuser will emit an odorless vapor that’s meant to imitate feline facial pheromones, thus calming your cat down.

    journals.sagepub.com Report

    aubergine10003
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There's a class action lawsuit against Feliway right now, because these things do NOT work.

    CanadianaKa
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not to mention the fire hazard... Mine freakin' melted after barely 90 days!

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    #88

    Wrap furniture legs in twine. Even with a designated scratching area, some cats can’t resist taking their claws to the furniture.

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    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Use sisal rope! Available at pretty much any craft store.

    #89

    Make sure toys are put away at bedtime. You can ensure their midnight shenanigans don’t interrupt your sleep by putting away all the noisy cat toys before bed.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    lmao if you're this bothered by them being nocturnal just don't get a nocturnal animal d@mn. XD

    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have 4 cats. Nothing stops their midnight shenanigans, unless something crashes to the floor. Then they all innocently walk away with no eye contact and go to bed

    Jude Laskowski
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat (4 years old) goes to bed when I do, and gets up when my alarm goes off. On the weekends, he lets me sleep later and entertains himself looking out the windows at the birds.

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    #90

    Teach your cat to comb itself. Use a small, soft-bristled brush or a fine-toothed comb and, while you hold the kitten, gently touch him with the brush or comb. Let him sniff it but don't let him attack it; you don't want him to think fighting the grooming tools is acceptable. Gently brush or comb the kitten a few times and then let him go.

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    #91

    Use the door buddy to give your cat some space. The Door Buddy is an adjustable door strap that mounts on your door and door frame and holds any door in your house open wide enough so your cat can get inside the room.

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    ItsJess
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why wouldn't you just leave a door open or ajar?

    Bonesko
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This post has been brought to you by 'The Door Buddy'

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    Hecate DeMort
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I use foam door bumpers, they are designed to stop children from getting their fingers trapped in the door. It means I can swing the door closed but it won't actually close, therefore she doesn't get trapped in a room. 81wQ3tb0y0...6520c6.jpg 81wQ3tb0y0L_AC_SL1500_-63253206520c6.jpg

    Meester Chad
    Community Member
    3 years ago

    This comment has been deleted.

    #92

    Brushing your cat regularly with a soft brush can definitely help, and you should aim for a once-a-day grooming session for longhaired breeds, or a weekly one for shorthaired cats.

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    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cats hate being brushed :( I’ve tried everything I read online - should I just keep trying?

    #93

    If you can't find your cat (hiding somewhere in the house) put some food in its bowl and shake so it makes sound. Your cat will come running.

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    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I literally lost my kitten the first day I brought him home. After searching what I thought was the whole house I got a bit anxious. I told my 5 year old cat to go find the kitten. He looked at me and just walked away so I followed him. He stopped infront of the oven, sat down and looked at me again. I was puzzled but figured I'd pull out the bottom drawer of the oven where most people store their pot, pans and bake ware. I was sceptical since that drawer is filled with cookie sheets, bread pans, muffin tins etc. Wouldn't you know it. The kitten was sitting at the very front of the drawer looking at me like I was crazy. Turns out he was small enough to fit through the gap at the back of the oven and climb to the front. Now I know there is a gap at the back of the over lol

    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    or you can run the electric can opener. Be sure to warn hubby you are about to do this as they tend to get in the way.

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    #94

    Cats are happy with "fetch". Use an old crisp packet folded in to a triangle, throw it once and they're playing alone for a while then.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    my mom's cats used to do this with the plastic wrap on cigarette boxes (this was the 60s).

    #95

    Give them a two-syllable name. Cats tend to only respond to shorter names, so stick to one or two syllables, preferably ending in an “ee” sound.

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    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My Steve only comes when I call him Stevie :) my other cat is Luka and he won’t even blink if I call him Luke. It’s very much largely true!

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    devotedtodreams
    Community Member
    3 years ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    As far as I can remember, almost all our cats had/have two-syllable names: Häxli, Udo, Möhrli, Bingo, Simba, Filou, Dante, Clio, Raffi... The exceptions were Much, Tigerli and Jasmina. So many lovely kitties... ♥

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Smokie, Splodgie, Eanie and Inky. The other 3 don’t have ‘ee’ name endings.

    Rens
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat's name is Magic Fuzzypaws, but she responds best to "Beauty", "Pookie" and variations like The Pook, Pookles, and Pooksie 😂

    Pumpkin Spice
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    ALL HAIL THE POOK, THE GREATEST KITTY WIZARD OF ALL

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    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cats have regular names and also lovey nicknames, as do my dogs. They all answer to their respective names/nicknames.

    #96

    Trim your cat’s claws or get them claw covers. Many cat owners seem to not worry about this, but it’s a good idea to lend your cat a hand with claw care. Learn to trim your cat’s claws or, if that’s too much, buy claw covers that a vet or groomer can help you learn to put on.

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    Lara M
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or just get the poor thing a scratching post or two.

    Joyce mann
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That has nothing g to do with it. My cat has many scratching posts, but still needs her claws trimmed

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    #97

    Wean your cat from destroying plants. When you're not home-or you're otherwise occupied-consider putting plants on shelves, behind a closed door, or otherwise out of reach of curious cats.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    be sure to read up about each plant in your home to make sure they are not poisonous.

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    #98

    Never close any door and block the cat in any room of the house, it's cat territory.

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    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I guess this explains when I’m trying to use the toilet and my cat is outside the bathroom door meowing & tryin to break in lol

    3 Owls In A Coat
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Makes them so angry when they realize you’re trying to poop alone haha. “HOW DARE YOU?!”

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    FrillyDragon
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sometimes you don't have a choice. This shouldn't be a never.

    Rens
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I live in a building where I'm not allowed to have a pet and when I go out I do closed my cat in the living room with all her essentials are; this is so that she doesn't meow at the front door, or even worse, try to sneak out!

    Hecate DeMort
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat is never allowed in the kitchen; she is only allowed in the sewing room if I am at home and she doesn't mind it. The only problem she has with doors is if I am on the opposite side to her, as how can I do anything without her supervision?

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sorry, but my cat is not going to be in the toilet with me, and at night she can't come into the bedroom. It's also my territory!

    #99

    For play - do not use your hand or wiggly fingers. They will associate that then with prey and want to bite and attack.

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    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    you would be infuriated at how many shelters and fosters and other types teach cats hands and feet are toys though. Like it's so frustrating.

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    #100

    To remove the cat hair, especially from furniture, place duct tape over it. When you remove the duct tape, the hair will come up with it.

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    Ace
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or just use a damp cloth. The sticky tape trick is good for clothing, but time-consuming and unnecessary (and expensive, unless you only have one chair) for furniture.

    #101

    Prevent your cat from unrolling the toilet paper with citrus.

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    Bored Retsuko
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Bad idea! 😬 Unless you don't intend to actually use the toilet paper on yourself if you catch my drift.

    Miss Frankfurter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You can put it inside the roll so every time you use the toilet paper it wafts out the scent and your cat will smell it even just having it on the holder.

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    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Turn the roll "backwards" so it won't unravel. The frustrated claw marks I can't help you with.

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    just hang the TP backwards and keep the bathroom door closed and also GIVE YOUR CAT ENOUGH TOYS AND PLAYTIME.

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    #102

    Build a DIY vented litter box. If you're handy with DIY and you're sick of the smell of cat turd in your home, this project is for you!

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    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or just scoop the poop out daily. Dog poop bags are handy for this. If the poop is litter free (sometimes you get lucky) you can flush it down the toilet

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    #103

    Wean your cat from going to the toilet in the wrong place. Perhaps this is the most common reason why cats begin to ignore the tray. If you decide to replace the filler, your cat is an innovation not approved, return to their seats.

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    #104

    Wean your cat from walking on the table. Note which side cat usually jumps on the table. Put there a large tray so that he looked over the edge of the tabletop. Now, if the cat tries to climb up on the table, it will fall.

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    #105

    Use old plastic Easter eggs to create fun puzzle toys for your cat.

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    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    In the old days I would put a few bits of dry cat food in film containers. Yes, I still use film.

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    #106

    Create a fun and inexpensive game for your cat using an old cardboard box and a ball.

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    #107

    Flushable cat litter is awesome. Flushable cat litter is made from biodegradable materials that break down in the environment. It will not harden when mixed with water and is supposed to be safe to flush down the toilet.

    greatpetcare.com Report

    ItsJess
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My plumber father-in-law would say that nothing, not "flushable" kitty litter OR "flushable" wipes, should be flushed down the toilet. Or just keep doing it, because it's an easy call for him to make and charge you.

    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My husband is a plumber, and he says the same thing

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    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The only things that should be flushed down to loo are the 2 usual doings and toilet paper.

    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had to use flushable cat litter when I trained my boys to use the toilet. I found one made of wheat grass. It breaks down to small grains and flushes so easily. If you can't flush that down your toilet you shouldn't be defecating in your toilet either

    #108

    If you have a computer plugged into a power strip get cablebox. Cats like to lie in warm places, power strips are warm, they will eventually step on the switch and make you lose all your work.

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    #109

    When cat is sick and need to take meds use to pound the pills into powder, mix it with a little bit of water into a paste and smother it all over cats mouth with a basting brush.

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    Stephanie Did It
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That sounds like a recipe for disaster.

    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But be sure to check with the vet, some pills are not meant to be crushed.

    Eleanor Abernathy
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat has to take his medicine twice a day. I fill it into capsules and hide them in cream cheese.

    Freya the Wanderer
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When my old Ragamuffin needed medication, I dissolved her pills in canned cat food, then mixed it in. She was none the wiser.

    Samantha Mannion
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have had to do this but I crushed it and put it in his food and it worked great since he's a big baby and with a few bad teeth so I don't like to force his mouth open too much

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    #110

    Create a peek-a-boo cat bed. Simply buy two material cat baskets then stitch them together. If you can't find any with a dip then simply cut out a half circle on each bed before stitching up.

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    #111

    When stroking a cat, you should use the knuckle of the first finger and press down softly on a circular motion on the cat's head. Because some cat's generally don't like being stroked all the way down/across the back.

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    Bored Retsuko
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They ALL love being stroked at their chin/cheek 😸

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    #112

    Cat eats more grass when is about to cough up a hairball.

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    #113

    Give your cat a bell. Bells on collars seem to reduce the amount of prey caught by about half, which could be enough to no longer pose a threat to ecosystems.

    mcgill.ca Report

    Rena
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    worst tip ever. cat ears are sensitive - imagine that every time you move, a siren goes off in the immediate vicinity.

    Sandy Parker
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My calico hated her collar. Now their time outside is with myself and my child so we can keep track of the 2 and make sure they are safe.

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    Kirk Schinzel
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Refer back to #3. Don’t let your babies out. Too much fighting and birds of prey just love to eat them.

    Sakapulgas
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Please respect your cats and their huge sensitivity. DO NOT PUT BELLS on their collars.

    Frankthetank
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Haha, my client had a cat with no joke 9 different sized bells on her collar. That cat still hunted and succeeded. I always removed the whole thing when I had her due to the bells driving me crazy (and give her a break)

    Jods
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Bells do not work and just upset the cat. Having a bell on a collar doesn’t make any difference to the number of prey they catch. Cats are vilified when it comes to the number of birds they catch. This is not the case. Magpies will kill many more birds than your cat.

    Michelle Muirhead
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    just keep them indoors or build a catio.

    Marek Čtrnáct
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    With the amount of mice we get here, we WANT them to hunt.

    Tamsyn Dalton
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We live in a rural area and bells attract hawks and owls, but it some cats can silence their bells

    SkekVi
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    first of all, DON'T LET YOUR CAT OUTSIDE. secondly, a bell is very useful anyways. at least for me! I bond closely enough with my children that they follow me everywhere and well I am not very steady on my feet! If I can hear them i know where they are and don't trip over them.

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    #114

    Some cats can't get high on catnip. If this is the case, try black olives.

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    Heather Menard
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Mine hated black olives but loved green

    Natalie H
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    None of my cats like catnip. These are the only cats I’ve seen who don’t like it. My cats are all related, so maybe it’s hereditary? 🤔

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    #115

    If you want a cheap, natural flea repellant to keep fleas off your pet and out of your home but aren't keen on using chemical-based flea collars and sprays, vinegar is an option.

    thespruce.com Report

    #116

    Empty coke boxes hot-glued together stacked and side by side. Just cut windows and doors where ever you want. Very cheap playhouse.

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    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Any type of box large enough for the cat to get in is fine. Grocery and liquor stores usually give them away if you ask nicely

    #117

    Crystalline litter is very absorbent, low order, and doesn't need to be changed as often.

    hngovr Report

    Valerie G.
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The best litter is the wood pellets you normally buy to heat the house. You can get a huge bag for less than $10 and it is the same stuff as the higher priced wood litters from the pet food store.

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    #118

    Don't feed your cats milk or tuna fish. The oil (or water) from a can of tuna fish, when drizzled on some dry kibble, is very good for cats in moderation.

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    Enigma wrapped in a paradox
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Tuna is the only protein my cat can eat without having intolerance reactions

    #119

    You must buy a Litter Locker. It's the easiest way to keep your house smelling clean.

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    #120

    Never buy cat food from grocery stores, those things are poison. Cats are natural carnivores that usually consume more than 95% meat.

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    Ace
    Community Member
    Premium
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Poison? Rubbish. Cheaper brands may have less nutritional value, but none of them is harmful in general let alone poisonous. Feeding them raw meat only is absolutely not going to guarantee them a longer or healthier life.

    Alison Marchand
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sadly there have been several incidents of major brands like Purina and Iams-level where they neglected to put a recall on pet food that was killing many peoples pets of all ages 😥 I can't remember the specific companies or the name of the documentary I learned most about it in, but it was enough to make me seriously concerned about pet food regulations

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    2763MilesAway
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Where else are you going to get them food?

    Lady Lava
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Bullsh*t. My cat is 16 and thrives on it.

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