Essential Beginner's Guide to Caring for Cats: Tips & T

Essential Pet Care Checklist

1. Cat Food

Dry Kibble: Ideal for cats that love water, as it has a high starch content. Opt for highquality brands costing over 30 yuan per pound, preferably purchased in person.

Canned Food: Be cautious with the brand choice. High in moisture and protein, it's great for cats with poor nutrition, those not drinking enough water, or for general adaptability.

Raw Meat Diet: Made from raw meat, organs, and bones, this is a highly digestible option rich in nutrients with high water content. Not suitable for older cats.

2. Cat Bowls

Choose bowls that are slightly wider than the cat's face to prevent whiskerblocking while eating.

Opt for a depth of 35 cm for the ideal size.

Go for sturdy, slightly heavier ceramic bowls that are less likely to tip over.

3. Litter Box

Select a litter box that is 1.5 times the length of your cat to ensure comfort.

Position it away from water bowls and food to maintain cleanliness.

Have one more litter box than the number of cats, and avoid placing them side by side.

4. Litter

Consider using a blend of litter types, such as clay, tofu, or pine, which are low in dust for a cleaner environment.

5. Cat Bed

During winter, opt for a soft and comfortable bed. Cats are often capable of finding their own resting spots without clothing, so feel free to let them choose.

6. Cat Scratching Post

Providing a scratching post is crucial to prevent damage to furniture. Without one, your bed and sofa might become targets for clawing.

7. Grooming Comb

Longhaired cats require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles, which can lead to skin issues if neglected.

8. Travel Crate

Use a travel crate for sunny days to enjoy outdoor time with your cat, or for a peaceful vaccination experience. Choose a quiet location and keep your cat inside unless you're confident it won't wander off. The crate also provides a sense of security during vet visits.

9. Cat Vaccinations

Cats should receive the M3 vaccine and rabies vaccine. The M3 vaccine protects against feline panleukopenia (cat distemper), feline herpesvirus, and feline calicivirus, while the rabies vaccine guards against the rabies virus. Kittens under one year old should receive three doses of M3 and one dose of rabies, while older cats need one dose of each annually.

10. Deworming

Just as important as vaccinations, deworming protects your cat from parasites that can be lifethreatening and sometimes zoonotic. Purchase reputable, brandname deworming medication from a reliable source and use it under the guidance of a veterinarian.