Are you thinking about buying or adopting a cat? Think about the decision to buy a cat carefully and read about how to best take care of your cat. Are you ready to take care of your cat for many years to come? The cute little kitten grows up and becomes bigger, and if it’s healthy, can live for more than 15 years. Do you own the time and finances to have a cat? A cat must be supervised at least twice a day and in addition to cat food and cat litter, there is insurance, veterinary costs and more. Once you have carefully thought about it and made your decision, there may be several questions: How to get hold of a breeder, whether to choose male or female, kitten or adult cat. Are you ready to get a cat or have you recently become a cat owner? Prepare yourself for a life with a cat so that you get the best possible start for your life together.
Introducing your cat to a new home
When planning to bring your cat or kitten home, there is a lot to think about. As a cat-owner, you must ensure you have the right knowledge of a cat’s needs and behaviour in accordance with the Swedish law concerning pet owners*. We have compiled two checklists to make it easier to introduce your cat to their new home, with practical tips on how to make your cat settle in and feel comfortable.
How to toilet train a cat
Cats are renowned for being clean animals and teaching your cat or kitten to use a litter tray is never normally that hard. There are a few things to consider when teaching a cat to use the litter box in the right place in their new home.
How long can you leave a cat alone?
Sometimes, cat owners might need to leave their cats alone when travelling, but in general, a cat can’t fend for itself for too long a period. In fact, supervision is regulated by Swedish law, meaning that it’s illegal to leave your cat alone without care for too long. A healthy cat should see humans at least twice a day, and needs not only food and water but also social contact.
Therefore, your cat must have an ID marking
By ID marking your cat with a chip or tattoo and registering yourself as its owner, you increase the chances of your cat finding home again if it runs away or has an accident. Both ID marking methods have their advantages and disadvantages. If you’re going to travel abroad with your cat, by law it must be chipped.
When can you let a kitten outside for the first time?
If you would like your cat to be an outdoor some times, it’s important not to let them out before they are ready, and only if you are certain that it is safe for them. Allow the cat to be out for short periods at first.