8 tips for keeping a cat in an apartment
A small space does not prevent the enormous desire to be close to our kitty. But still, some care must be taken to make this creation comfortable and safe. Many pets need to adapt to small places, such as apartments and kitchenettes. Raising cats in apartments can be simpler than you think! When everything is prepared in the best way, the animal settles in without much difficulty.
Adaptation of cats in apartments
Cats are explorers, curious and adventurous. When it comes to raising furry in small places, owners should stay alert and adopt some practices. As each kitten has its own adaptation rhythm, it is necessary to be patient and cautious. As animals that are easily stressed, attention to a healthy routine, with a balanced diet and exercise, should be redoubled.
Cleaning the cat's environment
1. Create the habit of daily cleaning
Postponing cleaning in small spaces can make the situation critical. Dirt such as hair, crumbs and feces, when accumulated, will leave less space available for use. Therefore, it is essential to establish a cleaning routine.
Sweep the floor every day, paying more attention to the cat's favorite spots. The most frequented spaces, such as the surroundings of the bed or the office table, should also be clean so as not to cause allergies. Sanitize with alcohol (in gel or liquid) the places that the kitty usually climbs, such as shelves, tables and windows, removing all the hair.
2. Pay special attention to your cat's favorite corner
In addition to keeping the water fresh and the food in the ideal amount for your cat, it is necessary to take care of his favorite corner. Clean your cat's feeder, drinker and toilet box every day. In this feeding area, only a wet, chemical-free cloth can be used.
The tip is to have two toilet boxes, which can be switched when one of the options is washing. Over time, daily cleaning will become a rewarding habit. Put on a sound and let the tidying happen!
walks with the cat
3. Take short, leisurely walks
Take your cat out to get some sun and fresh air, but only if he's healthy and comfortable with going out. Otherwise, the activity will make the animal scared and stressed.
Before going for a walk with your kitten, it is important to take a few steps: show him the harness you will be using, allowing him to smell and play with the accessory. The breastplate model that is most suitable for your cat should be recommended by the veterinarian.
Under no circumstances force your cat to walk or insist if he shows signs of stress. Always choose quiet places, without movement, where he will not have contact with dogs or other animals that can be dangerous.
4. Isolate toxic cat items
It is difficult to define the areas where your cat can walk in an apartment, especially if he spends periods alone. So take some precautions. Check out the toxic products that should stay away from your pussy:
⦁ mothballs
⦁ toxic plants
⦁ Pesticides and insecticides
⦁ Cleaning products
⦁ Solvents and Detergents
⦁ Drain cleaning products
⦁ Medicines
⦁ Foods
⦁ mouthwash
Youtuber Isa Gateira made a video showing more than 15 forbidden plants for your cat, click here to watch. If any contact with these objects occurs, immediately contact a trusted veterinarian. Remember to keep the packaging of the ingested product.
5. Put security screen on all open places
Safety nets are extremely necessary for your kitten's safety. Because they are natural hunters, any movement outside that catches their attention can make them want to jump out there.
To prevent falls and accidents, install protective screens in all locations with access to the street. Even in small windows, such as the tilting ones in the shower room, it is recommended to use a safety net. To safely raise a cat in an apartment, it is also important to know that these screens are valid for a maximum of five years .
⦁ Also read: Know everything about the cat vaccination schedule toys with cats
6. Play with the cat daily
To raise cats in apartments, it is necessary to enrich the place with items that encourage the cat to exercise. Thus, the desire to go to the street will decrease. So play with your kitten daily and don't forget to leave scratching posts and other objects available for him to exercise.
Look for interactive toys that encourage the hunting instinct, such as stuffed mice, catnip toys , feather wands, circuits, scratching holes, among others.
7. Turn brushing into a caress
How about separating a moment of the day to brush your kitty? In addition to the kitten relaxing, the habit will decrease the amount of fur spread around the apartment. With the right brush in hand, gain his trust and start brushing him calmly.
Take the time to carefully look for wounds and injuries that may appear on your feline's skin and, of course, caress your cat the way they like it!
8. Respect your cat's privacy
Like rabbits, cats need a space where their privacy is respected. The “markings” made by cats on their furniture and favorite places in the apartment give them a sense of comfort and security. As they are sensitive to changes, even small changes in the arrangement of furniture in the house can affect them, leaving them stressed.
In small spaces, the places your kitten will choose as a refuge should be even more respected. To save furniture and also encourage the physical and mental health of pets, always have a scratching post available.
There are infinite reasons to always have a cat around, but common sense and care is essential. It is possible to provide fun and comfort for the felines, even in small apartments.