As owners we introduce our cats to a piece of wood covered with some form of string and odd things dangling strategically from it, expecting them to automatically prefer this to manicure their nails on instead of the curtains and sofa!
Well you may not be able to teach an old dog new tricks, but how about a cat?
If your newly acquired feline friend has not been brought up with the right etiquette, one way you may be able to encourage her to use a scratching post is to spray or rub it with catnip (available in many forms at all good pet stores). In addition, to deter her from scratching your furniture, try using a spray gun filled with water each time she uses these areas, but try not to let her see you. This way she will soon come to associate them with something unpleasant.
Most cats love Tuna, and it is fine to give as a treat every once in a while, but should not become your cats main diet. One of the reasons is that the cat can become afflicted with Steatitis, also known as Yellow Fat Disease. This is an inflammation of the fat tissue in the body due to a vitamin E dificiency.
Whilst fish is high in protein, it is lacking in vitamin A, most B vitamins, and some amino acids, and the Calicium to Phosphorous ration in canned tuna can also cause bone disease. Therefore, your cat's diet should not consist solely of fish as the result will be some form of nutritional deficiency.
Catnip toys should be stored in an airtight container with a pinch or catnip and brought out for 20 minutes play at a time. Like any herb, it looses its essential oils if left exposed to the air.
If your cat has an accident on the carpet, you can remove it and the odour using Soda or Borax powder and White Vinegar. First sprinkle the carpet with the powder to absorb the urine. Once it becomes hard you can lift it up quite easily. Then wipe the area with the vinegar which will neutralize the odour.
If your Persian sleeps in a bed with a fluffy/fur fabric cushion, this can cause her coat to knot quicker. If it is the reversible type, turn the cushion over. Otherwise pop the cushion into a pillow case, and tuck the excess underneath if you’re not too handy with a needle and thread!
Giving liquid medication to your cat can be quite a battle. Instead of trying to feed it to her, spill it on her fur and she will lick it of in the process of cleaning.
Never pet your cat on her tummy near the back legs. Cats have a built in kicking reflex that will make her kick out and scratch you.
Always keep the lid closed on your toilet and don’t let your cat drink from the toilet bowl. Any residue from cleaning products can make your cat sick.
If you give your cat hairball remedies don’t give them at mealtimes. Many commercial remedies contain mineral oil or petroleum jelly which draw out the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K from the intestines.
Never give your cat cow’s milk. Many cats have a lactose intolerance and doing so will give them diarrhea.
To keep your cat off the kitchen worktop, place a sheet of aluminum foil on it, (the worktop not the cat!). Cats don’t like the sensation of walking on foil. Alternatively, put double sided tape on objects such as place mats, and scatter these over the worktop. Your cat will soon realize this is not a good place to be!
Double sided tape also works well with your furniture, sofa etc., just stick strips along vulnerable spots.
If a cat is frightened, put you hand over her eyes and forehead, or let her bury her head in your armpit to help calm her down.
Baking Soda is a good deodoriser for litter trays.
Fighting cats can sometimes be separated through distraction. Making a loud noise or dropping something heavy on the floor should startle them and make them run in opposite directions. Shaking a packet of food treats is another great distraction, if they are used to this sound.