Amal Al-Sibai
Saudi Gazette
JEDDAH — Cats are adorable, cuddly, furry, mischievous, and playful little animals and you wish you could have a pet cat to play with, touch its soft fur, and cuddle it when you are lonely.
“Dad, please, please, please can I have a pet cat?” you beg your dad.
“Having a cat is a big responsibility, you know. Do you promise to take good care of it?” asks your dad.
“Yes! Yes, I promise!” you say happily.
If you really want a pet cat, you have to promise to take care of it so your cat will be healthy and happy with you. Here are some basic ways that will show you how to be the best pet owner.
What you will need: Before you bring your cat home, make sure you have these things: a litter box, scoop, and litter, food bowl and water bowl, special canned and dried cat food, toys, pet brush, and a basket for your cat to sleep in.
Feeding
Small kittens are very hungry animals and they need to eat three to five times a day. To keep your cat strong and healthy and to make sure that her fur is shiny, it is best to give her canned food and dried biscuits for cats, and milk for kittens. Also, cats need plenty of water to drink. After she eats, take your kitten to her litter box so she does not make any accidents in the home.
Play
Playing is so much fun for both you and your kitten, but it is also important for your kitten’s health. Play teaches your kitten lessons that it needs for survival, such as hiding, fighting, and hunting. Playing with your kitten makes her muscles stronger, helps her learn how to balance, improves her hearing, and lets her practice a lot of skills. Play with your cat, pet her, and hug her to show that you love her. You can play tag or hide-and-seek.
Good toys are a rubber ball, some yarn, and a toy with a bell because kittens like toys that make a tiny noise. Get your kitten a scratch board so that she does not sharpen her claws on your mom’s furniture!
Napping
Cats and kittens need their sleep; they sleep for 16 hours a day. Make sure that the sleeping basket is in a quiet, dark, and warm place in the house. Cats need to take a nap after eating and after playing roughly. Take your kitten to her basket at these times so she can get her rest.
Going to the vet
Your kitten needs shots; just like you did when you were small. Take your kitten for a visit and regular check-up at the vet or pet care shop twice a year and also if your kitten seems sick.
Cat facts
