Do you and your feline friend live in an apartment? Kitties make great pets for those who live in smaller spaces. Fluffy doesn’t need much room, and she usually is both clean and quiet. However, your cute pet does still need great TLC to thrive. An Urbana, IL veterinarian discusses cat care for apartment dwellers below.
Veterinary Care
Speaking of veterinarians, make sure Fluffy sees hers regularly. Your feline buddy should be fixed, microchipped, and current on her vaccines and parasite control. Regular exams are also important. Ask your vet to recommend an appointment schedule.
Entertainment
Enrichment and entertainment are just as important for cats as they are for people. Fluffy will need lots of toys to amuse herself with. Give her some she can use safely by herself, and others that you can use to play with her.
Window
Fluffy will definitely appreciate a comfy window seat with a good view. Make sure that your windows and screens close securely. If you have blinds, you may need to replace them with another window covering. Otherwise, your furball will probably just go through them.
Diet
Indoor cats don’t get as much activity or stimulation as those who are allowed outside, and they can sometimes get, well, a bit chubby. That doesn’t mean you should let Fluffy roam: kitties are much safer and healthier indoors. Just take care not to overfeed the furball. Even giving your feline pal just ten calories too much each day can cause her to gain a pound a year!
Comfort
Does Fluffy stay home alone while you go to work? Leave a light on for her if you’ll be out after dark. Your kitty may also appreciate having a TV or radio playing. Keep the climate control going, too!
Plants
Plants can give any place a cozy, welcoming look. They also help with litterbox odors, and give Fluffy a little taste of nature. Set out some nontoxic options for your furry buddy to sniff at and nibble on. Check the ASPCA site here for suggestions.
Vertical Space
Fluffy doesn’t mind ‘borrowing’ your sofa or couch, but it’s good for her to have things all of her own. Look for things that take up vertical room, rather than floor space. Cat towers are a great example of this!
Do you have questions about cat care? Call us, your Urbana, IL animal clinic, anytime!
