3 things I wish I knew BEFORE adopting a cat
I’ve had my cat for almost a month, since adopting him these are some things that would have been helpful to know BEFORE I adopted him🩷
1. How to manage high energy
My cat is SUPER energetic and wants to play 24/7. Exercise is important to maintain a healthy cat. Kittens (birth-1 yrs old) need about 2 hours of playtime to keep them happy and healthy. Cats also have short attention spans so you shouldn’t do all 2 hours in one sitting.
What should I do?
Do multiple short play sessions (15 minutes) to keep them entertained. I do about 4-5 30-45 minutes sessions for my cat and it’s helped from keeping him crazy.
2. Training
Cats can be trained to do about anything, but how do you train a cat? They respond to positive reinforcement, so avoid swatting, spraying with water, and other negative reinforcement.
What should I do?
Most cats are food motivated. Put some of their favorite treats in a small ziploc bag and leave the bag open and put in your pocket so they can’t see it (having it out could distract them). When they do the UNDESIRED task (example: jumping on counter) move them and say, “no.” Then reward them using a physical reward (the treat) AND an emotional/verbal reward (petting and praise). When they do the desired task on their own, reward them (again, with 2 FORMS of rewards).
3. Scents
There are A LOT of scents that cats don’t like. BUT you can use to your advantage. I use scents like lemon or other citrus smells to deter my cat away from furniture I don’t want him on like my desk, counters, and bookshelf.
What should I do?
Light a candle or use a spray that is an undesired scent in the area you don’t want your cat to be in (if using a candle, keep it out of the cats reach). This should keep them away from the area.
#howtoraiseacat #lifestylewithpets #understandingpets #cathabits #catfavorites
Adopting a cat can bring immense joy, but it's essential to be prepared for their unique needs. 1. **Understanding Cat Energy Levels**: Cats, especially kittens, are known for their playful and high-energy behavior. Engaging your cat in multiple play sessions throughout the day helps release pent-up energy and avoids behavioral issues as they grow. Aim for brief, stimulating sessions of about 15-45 minutes to keep their interest high. 2. **Effective Training Techniques**: Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained! The key lies in positive reinforcement, which has been proven to yield better results than negative methods. Keep treats handy and reward your cat for desired behaviors while redirecting them from undesirable actions. Consistency is crucial for successful training. 3. **Using Scents as Tools**: Cats have a keen sense of smell, making it essential to use this to your advantage. Scents like citrus can deter cats from areas you want them to avoid. Consider using candles or sprays with these scents strategically to protect your furniture and other belongings. Remember to ensure that any source of scent remains unreachable to your cat. By preparing yourself with these insights, you'll create a nurturing environment for your new pet, ensuring both your satisfaction and that of your feline friend.
Also getting a baby this age by himself is really hard. I have a youngster and two senior cats and sometimes she makes them crazy. I found her on the street. Sometimes having a young companion help helps if it’s affordable.