Some useful advice for cat owners
Play
Most cats will get a lot of fun from the simplest of toys. Roll some newspaper into a small ball and a cat will be amused for ages. Large paper bags or empty cardboard boxes are irresistible to most cats. Even a flat newspaper (especially of you are trying to read it) will give an inquisitive cat some fun. However, remember that cats will get their toys into the wrong places. If you have a cat that throws toys into the air, ensure that items like toasters are never left plugged in!
Cat Baskets
Getting a reluctant cat into a basket can be a problem. Just like giving medication the trick is to be calm and quick. Mike has perfected the art of popping an unwilling cat into a basket but it does take 2 people. One person holds the basket on the ground with the door open and the opening pointing skywards. The other person picks up the cat with one hand holding the front legs together and the other holding the back legs together whilst also supporting the cat's bottom. It is still possible to support your cat properly this way. Quickly lower the cat into the basket tail end first. Job done!
If your cat is not a happy traveller try covering the basket with a towel, remembering to ensure there is enough ventilation.
Diet
Cats are carnivorous and should not be fed a vegetarian diet or on dog food. Dog food doesn't contain the correct nutrients for felines.
We find that elderly cats who may be missing teeth cope well with Supermeat or pate type foods. The texture is easy to chew, and if it is fed heaped up on a flat plate, rather than in a bowl, it is easier for them to eat.
Lilies
Lilies are extremely poisonous to cats. It is not only the ingestion of the plant that can cause illness in cats, brushing past the flower and then grooming the pollen from the fur can also have the same effect. Signs of poisoning can include continued vomiting, blindness, paralysis, renal failure, coma and death. See our links page for more information on poisonous plants.
Dealing with an injured cat
Do not move an injured cat unless it is necessary for their own safety, or advised to do so by a Vet. If you need to, place a board, tray or coat behind the cat, gently slip both hands; palms facing upwards, under his shoulders and hindquarters and slide him onto it, taking care not to disturb the Cats position in case of injury. Cats Protection have a First Aid for Cats leaflet. Visit their site from the links page.
Sunburn
White and paler cats are most likely to suffer from sunburn, especially on the ears and nose. Your Vet will be able to recommend a sunscreen to use. Always have a shady retreat handy to shelter from the sun, especially when at its strongest in the middle of the day.
If you have any advice to add to this page please email it to us.