Pet Advice for Cats - Environmental
Cats have special little quirks and habits that can be quite different from other animals. Here you can find out just what makes cats so unique. Click through the tabs to discover more about your cat:
On top of a newspaper on the kitchen table, snuggled into your new lambswool jumper or nestled into a basket of clean washing… during the day, your cat will sleep anywhere he or she wants. This is one of the most endearing aspects of cat ownership: discovering their new favourite cat-napping spot. Of course, it goes without saying that what's yours is theirs – and they'll have no problem letting you know it. Cats don't just settle into these 'soft spots' to annoy you, there's a reason why they do this and it goes all the way back to kitten hood.
Cats are drawn to 'soft spots' in the house, because they are perfect for 'kneading'. Nursing kittens instinctively start kneading: pressing their front paws, one after the other against their mother's tummy. It's a sign of affection, which is often carried into adulthood. The basket of clean washing represents the softness of the mother cat's tummy and that's why you'll often find your cat kneading away in there and purring contentedly before settling down to sleep.
Does your cat prefer to play outside? Microchipping is a permanent way of identifying domestic cats and is now compulsory in most states. Check with your local council. It's a quick, pain-free procedure where the vet implants a rice-grain sized microchip under their skin. The chip contains information about your cat including your home address, is held on a database at the local council animal registry and will increase the chances of finding your cat should it go missing.
Kittens are inquisitive and mischievous creatures and you will need to kitten-proof your home to help keep your little cat safe.
Within your house, check each room for harmful things that might attract your investigative kitten. Items such as string, fishing line, electrical cords, medications, hanging curtain cords, cleaning cloths, cleaning products and sharp objects can all be dangerous and so should be kept out of kitten-reach.
Search for and block any small spaces or holes in and around your home and always be sure your kitten doesn't get shut in drawers, cupboards or your clothes dryer. If you have a yard, check your fence for gaps and ensure any swimming pools or fish ponds are fenced off.
If you have a yard, be sure to check your fence for gaps and ensure any swimming pools or fish ponds are fenced off. Also be aware of the plants you have in your garden – some can be dangerous to dogs.
