 |
|
 |
 |
|
A checklist of what you will need for your new pet!
- Food, of a good quality. Kittens should remain on a growth formula for the first year. Naturally preserved foods contain no artificial colors or flavors.
- Dishes, for food and water. From the economical plastic single or double diners, to porcelain, ceramic or stainless steel, they come in a variety of sizes.
- Grooming Tools, a brush is a must. Slickers are great for medium to long coated cats. The curved pins remove dead, loose fur so there is no matting or tangling. Rubber brushes or gloves are for the short haired breeds. They will remove the loose fur and disperse the natural oils throughout the coat. Combs with rolling teeth help remove knots. Avoid plastic combs as they build static that create knots and tangles. Nail clippers, toothbrush or finger brush and ear cleaner should also be purchased. The sooner you start using them, the easier it will be on the pet. There is nothing worse than having to check one of these areas if your pet is unruly.
- Litter Box, Scoop and Litter. Litter boxes are sized from kitten stage to the largest of cats. Rimmed, enclosed with filters, self cleaning and sifting. A litter scoop is a must for removing feces and urine clumps (clumping litter). Cat litters now come in a variety. Recycled newspaper (Yesterday's News and Daily Scoops) is very absorbent and recommended for use after de-clawwing. Clay Litter, the least expensive, is the dustiest, so choose your brand wisely. They do come with deodorizers. Clumping litter comes in two varieties: A soft clump, where urine and feces can be gently lifted and disposed of, or a hard clump (Super Mix and Easy Clean), where the urine and feces form a hard ball, sealing in all odors. These should never be flushed!!
- Harness or Collar and Lead. Harnesses are available in a variety of sizes and colors. Styles range from adjustable, step-in, figure '8' to figure 'H'. They allow your pet the freedom to explore without the worry of being caught and choked. Collars should always have some elasticity, just in case they are caught on something. A bell is a must for those birders. Retractable leads, such as Flexi's are super. A lightweight tie-out cord is handy for backyard, cottage or camping.
- Hairball Remedy, helps your pet pass the hairballs through the digestive tract. They are available in a natural malt flavor and fish flavor. Easy to use, just squeeze a bit onto the tip of the cat's nose or on a paw. They will lick it clean.
- Stain and Odor Remover, a must! Make sure that the product neutralizes the odor, not just masks it. If it doesn't, your pet will return to the area time and again.
- Flea Program, start out right. Fleas are the number one cause of internal parasites. Just because you don't see a flea, doesn't mean they are not there. Eggs can lay in suspension for months before hatching. Protect your pet. Put an ova collar on, or use a Spot-On Treatment. There are also pet sprays available for the pet and premises, that have a residual effect, killing the fleas and destroying the life cycle of the eggs. For those that don't like to bathe, a mousse is available, and very effective. Flea products should not be used on kittens under 6 weeks of age or on pregnant or nursing mothers.
- Toys, so many to chose from. Balls, fur mice, glitter balls, door hangers, fishing rod types, the list goes on.....with or without catnip. Remember, catnip is not effective on kittens. Late in their first year, they react to the herb.
- Pet Bed, make it cozy. Felines like cups and bags. Window perch beds are also easy to install, giving your pet the chance to bask in the sun and see the great outdoors.
- Books on kitten and cat care, or the invaluable "Caring for Your Sick Cat".
- Scratcher, saves your furniture. Sisal is the best and toughest.
- Travelling Cage, ideal for trips to the vet's office or travelling in the the car. Soft-sided carriers and small plastic kennels are available.
|
| |
|
|
|
top