12 Things You Should Never Do to Your Cat
We all have our dos’ and don’ts. Don’t we? Cats, too, have their dos’ and don’ts. As cat owners, understanding these boundaries is vital. Here, we’ll explore 12 actions that should never be done to your cat. From yelling to neglecting veterinary care, each action plays a crucial role in keeping our feline friends happy and healthy.
1. Yelling or Physical Punishment
Yelling at or physically punishing your cat is counterproductive. Cats don’t associate punishment with their actions and may become fearful or aggressive. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement using treats or praise to encourage good behavior.
2. Forceful Hugging or Petting
Cats have different comfort levels with physical contact. Forcing hugs or aggressive petting can lead to stress and scratching. Allow your cat to approach you for affection, and respect their boundaries to build trust.
3. Ignoring Litter Box Hygiene
Neglecting the litter box’s cleanliness can upset your cat’s routine. Cats are clean animals, and an unclean litter box might lead them to be eliminated elsewhere. Regularly scoop waste and change litter to maintain a welcoming environment.
4. Feeding Them Inappropriate Foods
Some human foods are toxic to cats, such as chocolate and onions. Avoid feeding leftovers from your plate, and stick to a balanced diet formulated for cats. This prevents potential health issues and keeps your cat well-nourished.
5. Declawing Your Cat
Declawing involves amputating the last bone of a cat’s toes and is a painful procedure that can lead to lasting physical and behavioral issues. Cats rely on their claws for defense, balance, and natural behaviors like scratching. Instead, provide appropriate scratching posts and regularly trim their claws to prevent damage.
6. Using Essential Oils Indiscriminately
Essential oils like tea tree, citrus, and peppermint can be toxic to cats when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Cats lack certain enzymes to metabolize these substances, leading to serious health risks. Before using essential oils, please consult your veterinarian to ensure they’re safe for felines.
7. Excessive Bathing
Cats are skilled groomers and have natural oils that keep their coats healthy. Excessive bathing can strip these oils, causing dry skin and irritation. While some situations may warrant bathing, like dealing with a specific skin condition, it’s generally best to let cats manage their grooming routines.
8. Letting Them Roam Unsupervised
Allowing cats to roam freely outdoors exposes them to dangers like traffic accidents, predators, and exposure to diseases. Supervised outdoor time in a controlled environment or using enclosed catios can offer a safer compromise between indoor and outdoor life. It prevents potential harm and ensures their safety.
9. Giving Them Human Medications
Administering human medications to your cat without professional guidance can lead to severe health complications. Cats metabolize drugs differently than humans do, and many medications that are safe for us can be toxic to them. Always consult a veterinarian before giving your cat any medication, and never assume that over-the-counter drugs are suitable for felines.
10. Skipping Vet Visits
Regular veterinary visits are vital for maintaining your cat’s health and catching potential issues early. Skipping these appointments can result in undiagnosed illnesses progressing to a critical stage before being detected. Make it a priority to schedule annual check-ups with your veterinarian to ensure your cat’s well-being.
11. Not Providing Enrichment
Failing to offer mental and physical stimulation can lead to behavioral problems in cats. Cats may become bored, anxious, or engage in destructive behaviors without adequate enrichment. To meet their instincts, keep your cat engaged by providing interactive toys, puzzle feeders, climbing structures, and regular play sessions.
12. Ignoring Their Dental Care
Neglecting your cat’s dental care can lead to painful dental diseases that affect their overall health. Dental problems can cause discomfort while eating and even lead to infections. To prevent this, regularly brush your cat’s teeth using veterinarian-approved toothpaste and dental tools. Additionally, as your vet recommends, offer dental treats or toys that support oral hygiene.
In conclusion, safeguarding your cat’s welfare demands vigilance and compassion. You nurture a harmonious bond by sidestepping harmful practices such as harsh discipline, neglecting health essentials, and disregarding their instincts. Prioritize their needs, honor their uniqueness, and foster an environment of trust. These principles ensure your cat’s contentment and a mutually gratifying companionship.
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I rescued a Maine Coon cat.She is 11yrs old but I can’t touch her on her stomach. She eats very well and I give her a pill for a Thyroid problem. I can’t pick her up either. When it is time to go to the vets, I put a dish of
food in her carrier, and when she goes in to eat I close her in. I live alone and am elderly. I don’t know a thing about her past but I love her. After about a year, She will bump my hand meaning she wants a head rub, and a neck rub. Can’t touch her any where else. Lately she has been going under my bed for most of the day. She will hide there for most of the day and at night she lays beside me for a rub and then goes into another room. I hope she is happy.She loves to sit on my window sill for
long periods of time. I don’t think she is in pain.
Sounds like you are being very patient and loving with her, so hopefully in time, she will learn to trust even more.