September is National Happy Healthy Cat Month! This month is an opportunity to celebrate the special roles that cats play in our lives and discuss some of the ways that we can help care for them.
Here are some tips for keeping your cat healthy!
1. Brush Your Cat
Brushing your cat regularly helps to eliminate dead hair from their coat and reduces hairballs when they are self grooming. This will also provide you with an opportunity to check for and notice any abnormalities on your pet, such as new bumps, lumps or sore spots that you may need to bring to the attention of your vet.
2. Provide Fresh Water
Always be sure that your pet has access to fresh water. If you notice any changes in their thirst, you may want to call your veterinarian to check in.
3. Monitor Litter Box Behavior
There are a lot of reasons why you may notice your cat urinating outside of the litter box. Sometimes, the answer is as simple as needing to clean the litter box. However, it may be a sign of something more serious, such as a urinary tract infection. It is always best to give your veterinarian a call when you notice this behavior!
4. Spay or Neuter Your Cat
Reproductive diseases can effect all cats. In females, spaying reduces the risk of uterine infections, ovarian cancers, and breast tumors. In males, it reduces the risk of testicular cancer and prostate issues. . You will be doing your part to help ensure that your pet doesn’t contribute to the over-population problem!
5. Train Your Cat To Use a Scratching Post
Training your cat to scratch on a post or other appropriate surface will help to reduce damage to your furniture, will help them stretch their muscles and keep their claws in good condition.
Playing with your cat is also great for their health! Regular playtime will reduce stress, increase your bond, provide exercise and provide a break from the normal routine of their day. Here are some great DIY toys we found for you to make!
Cat Scratch Door Hanger from Design Sponge : http://www.designsponge.com/2012/12/diy-project-pretty-cat-toys.html
Wiggle Wand from Joy the Baker: https://joythebaker.com/2014/12/cat-lady-gift-set/
