Pet Matters
Western Arizona Humane Society
Victoria Cowper,
Community Relations Manager
This is a regular column, presented every two weeks to provide information about pet and animal care, including the legal responsibilities of pet ownership. We invite you to send your questions to answer in upcoming issues.
Please send your questions and comments to the Today's News Herald or directly to me a W.A.H.S.
JUNE IS NATIONAL ADOPT A SHELTER CAT MONTH
What is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month?
Sponsored by The American Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Adopt A Shelter Cat Month encourages people who are looking for the country's most popular and cuddly companion pet to cheek out the millions of cats at local shelters. The Western Arizona Humane Society will be offering two cats for the adoption price of one during the month.
What about a cat?
Cats come in a variety of personalities, sizes and coats. Pick a cat that matches your personality. Although cats are easier to take care of then dogs, they still require daily care, such as litterbox cleaning, feeding, and exercise through play. We have a wide assortment of cats and kittens available for adoption.
Do I have at least one hour a day to devote to loving and caring for my cat?
A cat requires plenty of love and affection. Although more independent than dogs, they thrive on companionship. It is recommended that you consider adopting two cats is there is no one home during the day. Two are company for each other-and two will bring more love into your life.
Can my cat be an indoor/outdoor cat?
NEVER. Here in Lake Havasu cats must be kept indoors (or in screened porches) at all times. Cats that escape outdoors are subject to predatory animals and diseases.
I've decided, what now?
Shelter cats make excellent companion pets. Just as cats give people love and companionship, pet owners need to care for their cats and provide them with an appropriate loving home. Careful research and planning is the key to adopting the right pet for your family, since adopting a pet should never be an impulse decision.
· Prepare your family first. Discuss the needs and responsibilities. One adult in the home should be designated as the primary caretaker so that the cat's needs do not become lost in the shuffle of busy schedules. Also, make sure your landlord allows pets prior to bringing any new animal home.
· Pet proof you home as you would for a child. Electrical cords, household products and plants should be moved out of the pet's reach. Remember, kittens view the world as a chew toy. Your job is to help them learn toys from forbidden items.
· Ask friends to recommend a veterinarian. Plan to take your new pet for a health check and any necessary vaccinations within the first few days.
What traits to I look for in a healthy cat?
Pet owners and veterinarians often rely on subtle clues to determine cat's health. Check for signs of physical well-being in any cat you may consider for adoption.
· Activity Level: The link between curiosity and cats is more than just folklore. Healthy cats should be eager to explore their environment and anxious to play.
· Socialization: Every cat has a certain level of tolerance for humans, but even the most aloof feline should enjoy at least some humane company and tolerate the company of other cats in the environment.
· Body Weight: A cat should appear to be in good physical condition. When stroking the cat, you should be able to feel-but-not-see the ribs.
· A luxurious coat: Healthy cats have bright, sleek and glossy coats.
· Bright, Clear Eyes: There should be no evidence of discharge around a cat's eyes, and the third eyelids should not be protruding across the eyes.
· A Moist, Cool Nose: Most cats have moist cool noses that show no evidence of discharge.
· Clean Teeth: The tongue and gums of a cat's mouth should be a healthy shade of pink, not swollen or inflamed.
· Clean Ears: The ears should be clean and free of waxy buildup, and there should be no evidence of scratches or hairlessness around the ears.
· A Clean Smell: Healthy cats have a pleasant, sweet smell.
· Muscle Soreness: Cats that limp or act sore when they are handled may have problems in their bones or joints, or they may be injured.
What special supplies will I need for a new cat or kitten?
Welcoming your new cat or kitten into your home requires a lot of love, patience and preparation. You can make your cat's introduction to your home, family and other pet go smoothly. Basic supplies:
Bed or Sleeping Area; provide a comfortable sleeping area to discourage your new pet from using the furniture.
Water and Food Bowls; Each pet in your house should have his or her own food and water bowl. Choose bowls especially designed for cats - shallow broad-based metal or ceramic bowls.
Toys; Cat toys, like toys for small children, are wonderful amusements and should be chosen carefully. Avoid toys that have sharp edges or parts that you kitten might swallow. Choose soft toys that bounce erratically (the more bounce the better). Beware of yarn and toys with string. Yarn or string is dangerous if ingested. Supervise all play with these toys.
Litter Box and Litter, Cat Carrier, Brushes and Combs, Scratching Post, Collar & ID Tags, age appropriate food.
The Western Arizona Humane Society has a wide assortment of all the supplies you need for you new pet.
What is the best way to deal with homesickness?
When you bring your new pet home, at first they may miss their family. They may wake up and meow during the night. Pick your pet up and comfort them by speaking soothingly and stroking them gently. If your new pet is a kitten, try putting a ticking clock by their bed to remind them of their mother's heartbeat, or a hot-water bottle wrapped in a towel near them. This will remind them of their siblings.
What are some tips to ease the transition?
Introduce your cat to your home gradually. For the first day or two, keep your cat confined to one room with a litter box, food and water. Let them become comfortable in this room before introducing them to the rest of the house. After your pet is relaxed and acclimated, allow them to explore and roam the rest of the house.
What about children and cats or kittens?
Show your children how to properly pick up your new pet and how to play with them. Teach them that cats don't like to be teased or have their ears or tail pulled. Always supervise your children's interaction with your new kitten, especially when they have friends over to play.
How do I introduce my new pet to my other pets?
Before you introduce a new pet to the household, be sure they (as well as your resident pets) are disease-free and have been recently checked by your veterinarian. Older, settle-in pets my resist sharing their domain, and it may take a month or more before your new pet is an accepted member of the family.
Put your new pet in a separate room away from other pets for the first day or two, and leave the travel crate open in the room. The familiarity of the crate may make it a safe haven. Resident pets will become aware of their presence from the scent. If you have another cat, they may prowl around the doorway and show signs of aggression.
During this period, spend extra time with your resident pet to relieve any anxiety and minimize tension. Confine him to his favorite part of the house while the new pet is allowed brief journey out to explore your home. When your pet seems comfortable, allow the animals to start viewing each other.
Allow your pets to meet. Stay in the room while they get acquainted. Let them sniff out each other's space and one another. Make sure each pet has an easy escape route in case one or the other wants to leave. Some hissing or growling is to be expected.
The dedicated staff and volunteers at the Western Arizona Humane Society are here to serve you and assist in your selection of a wonderful companion animal.
Previous Articles:
Valley Fever Dog Bite Prevention
Spay & Neuter
Pet Information On-Line