What to Expect When You're Expecting (a Cat)

Food - Cats can be picky eaters, and some would rather starve than eat something they don't like. Stick with what the foster home knows she likes, at least in the beginning. You can gradually switch them over to what you choose as they get to know and trust you. You should ALWAYS switch animals over to new foods very gradually, over a two week period, to avoid stomach upsets.

***Look for a statement that the food meets AAFCO Food Trial testing standards to ensure that the pet food you buy contains adequate nutrients. AAFCO is an organization which sets standards for pet foods. Most good quality foods will have this statement on their label. It is at least a good start in ensuring that your pet's diet is adequate. *** 

First, make sure the food you are feeding states that is it 100% nutritionally complete. Second, avoid foods with dyes, but make sure the food contains Taurine. Cats need taurine to avoid many severe health issues (blindness, heart problems). Feed cats plenty of wet food, contrary to old myths. Cats by nature do not drink enough water and most wet foods contain at least 33% water, some even as much as 85% water! To keep their teeth clean, if you are not into actually brushing them, give them hard crunchy dry food and treats (avoid soft foods & treats with dyes and sugars). We have found Whiskas Temptations to be excellent treats for scraping their teeth clean.

Food & Water Dishes - It is usually best to use glass or ceramic bowls because some animals, especially cats, have allergies to plastic and metals. You many not even notice a reaction, but your poor cat will! A reaction is often seen in the form of "feline acne" or ulcers on the chin, but can include breathing problems. Bowls should be disinfected often to avoid harmful bacteria building up in them.


Litter Box - Find a private spot, out of foot traffic, for the litter box so your cat can maintain her dignity. Some cats like covered boxes and some do not. Your cat should be able to easily turn around in her litter box, without hanging over or touching the sides. It is best to have one litter box per cat and you should clean it daily. You may need to try several types of litter before you find the one that works best for your kitty and you. Some types of litter don't clump as well as others, some don't keep odor down, some are too dusty, and some just don't feel good on their feet or yours! It can be very frustrating and confusing, so be sure to ask your foster mom what has worked for your kitty. Trial and error is sometimes in order, but usually asking other cat owners what their cat likes best is a huge step in the right direction. Some of us, and our cats, prefer Tidy Cat Small Spaces. It clumps great, has little or no dust, and smells pleasant! See this link for much more information on litter boxes and common problems: http://www.litter-box.org/. 

Some people want to put the litter box in a strange place because of visitors, the smell, or just so they won't see it. If you make it extremely difficult or scary to get to the litter box, she might make her own spot somewhere else in the house. Remember, the litter box should work for your cat first and you second if you want to avoid potential behavioral problems.

Carrier - You will need this to keep your cat safe whenever you take her somewhere, like the Vet's office. It is best to buy a carrier that is "Airline Approved" - look for this in the advertising before you buy. This will keep your pet safe while traveling in car, train or plane. Your cat should be able to safely stand up, turn around, and lie down without being cramped or touching the top or sides. Many pets are killed, injured or lost during travel due to accidents and open windows. Don't let your pet be one of them!

Toys - Cats like to play, and toys are fun for you and your cat! Nothing helps to bond you and your cat more than a good toy. You can make a safe toy out of many household items, but you need to know your cat or kitten well enough first. For example, if your cat is not a chewer, you can take the plastic ring off a milk jug and toss it on the floor. Your cat will love it! You can give them your empty toilet paper rolls as well. Even a paper bag will make great fun for a curious cat. 

Always monitor your cat or kitten while at play and don't leave them alone with toys. Many toys we make or buy can be harmful to your baby in ways you could never imagine. Toys with long strings or items that can come off, such as eyes or jingle bells, can be very harmful if swallowed or tangled around a leg or neck. A toy called Flutter Balls is one of our foster cats' favorite toys, but you have to watch them or they could get a feather caught in their throat. Use the same rules you would with a human child. Toys are fun and safe - when you are there to watch and play with them! And by all means, don't forget to buy them a toy that can hold fresh catnip.

Scratching Post - Your new cat or kitten has a great need to scratch, whether she has claws or not. Be sure to understand why, how and what cats are likely to scratch. If you want to avoid having torn up furniture - get educated and get prepared. Cats love to scratch items in the house for several reasons, but the main one is because they want to bond with you and mark their territory. They have scent glands in their paws and face. In a sense, your new cat is saying "Hey, this is my home, my person and I'm leaving my calling card for everyone else to be clear on the subject!" so take it as a compliment and let them know where to leave their scent.

A good place to start is a sturdy, carpeted scratching post with a heavy base so it won't tip over on them. Rub fresh catnip into it, and tie an old shirt of yours at the bottom. Be sure to use something that has your smell on it. Another great choice is sold under many names and is fairly inexpensive - it's a long box with corrugated cardboard inside and it has catnip all in it. Your cat will got nuts before you even get the lid off! First they rub all over it, then they attack it, and finally they sit on it and scratch it. It is fun to watch, easy to refill with catnip and 100% recyclable. See http://www.catscratching.com/ to educate yourself on scratching, nail trimming, declawing and alternatives.