According to the most recent survey by the Canadian Institute of Animal Health, there are about 8.5 million cats in the country and the number is increasing. But how many pet owners know what their cats need to thrive?
Experts say they need care that goes far beyond food and water, and many owners ignore their feline friend's basic needs.
According to Alley Cat Allies, domestic cats have been pets of humans for 10,000 to 12,000 years and have changed little in terms of appearance, diet and care. Since the cat is considered a more independent pet, it can adapt to different environments and is still very sociable.
Cats are nocturnal animals, sleeping most of the day and, especially in young cats, walking around most of the night. Like any other pet, they need mental stimulation along with environmental enrichment to be happy and active.
Scratching posts, scratching posts, small toys, wands and spending time with cats are just some of the things that keep them mentally happy while keeping them physically fit. When feeding dry food, a cat needs a wet food mix and a water source to increase their water intake, which will benefit their urinary health.
"Cats need environmental enrichment, they need time to play with their owners and they need companionship," said Kelsey Watkiss, director of Pisces Pet Emporium.
Cats are low-maintenance pets that benefit from a variety of activities that keep them happy and mentally stimulated. Improving a cat's environment not only reduces the risk of behavioral problems but also increases their activity level. To provide cats with a relaxing spatial experience, it is important to provide them with activities, spacious rooms and plenty of food.
Cat Care Basics
Watkiss has worked at Pisces for over 20 years and has learned the ins and outs of cat care. Through meetings with cat owners and the Cats Home Foundation, she learned the basics and behaviors of cats that do more harm than good.
The foundation works to educate cat owners and the public about the importance of proper cat care and ownership, reducing the number of cats on the street and debunking myths. A common myth is that cats need to have their claws removed.
"The Cats Home Foundation does not tolerate declawing," says Watkiss. "But surprisingly, many people are still unaware of the harm that declawing causes."
Declawing is the amputation of a cat's paw bones, explains the Humane Society of The United States . When a cat has its claws removed, it can cause paw pain, back pain, infection, tissue loss, and loss of movement due to the removal of the last toe joint.
The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association banned the practice in 2019 . Other provinces, including Saskatchewan and British Columbia, have followed suit.
Healthy cats are safe cats
According to All About Cats Veterinary Hospital, vaccinations, spays, and neuters also have a positive impact on a cat's health by increasing their chances of survival. This helps ensure a cat is healthy, which can reduce the spread of disease and cancer.
Promoting cat welfare and reducing cat overpopulation is beneficial for all cats as there will be fewer deaths due to starvation, disease and winter conditions. Watkiss believes that every cat deserves a happy life, and Cats Home Foundation provides the care necessary to achieve this.
"We all love cats and everyone should know how wonderful they are! »
Aucun commentaire:
Enregistrer un commentaire