Unintentional Mistakes by Cat Owners

Some mistakes that cat owners are not realized. Below are some of the unintentional mistakes by cat owners:

1. Bones and Cats

It is generally not recommended to give bones to cats as they can splinter and cause blockages or tears in a cat’s digestive system. Additionally, bones can break teeth or cause other oral injuries in cats. If you want to provide your cat with a healthy and safe alternative to bones, you can try giving them a toy specifically designed for chewing, such as a rubber or nylon toy. It is also important to keep in mind that cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require a diet that is primarily composed of animal protein. If you have concerns about your cat’s diet or nutrition, it is best to consult with a veterinarian for advice.

2. Sudden Alteration in Cat Diet

Sudden changes to a cat’s diet can cause digestive upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. This is because cats have sensitive digestive systems and are more prone to digestive issues when their diet is changed abruptly.

If you need to make a sudden change to your cat’s diet due to a medical condition or other special circumstance, it is important to consult with a veterinarian for guidance. They can help you choose a suitable diet and advise you on the best way to transition your cat to the new food.

In general, it is best to make any changes to a cat’s diet gradually to give their digestive system time to adjust. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food in with their current food, gradually increasing the proportion of new food over the course of a week or more. This will help minimize the risk of digestive upset.

3. Toxic Plants

There are many common household plants that can be toxic to cats if ingested. Some examples of toxic plants include:

Lilies: All parts of the lily plant are toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure.
Sago palm: The seeds, leaves, and stems of the sago palm contain toxins that can cause liver failure in cats.
Tulip and daffodil bulbs: These bulbs contain toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors in cats.
Aloe vera: Although aloe vera is often used to treat minor skin irritation in humans, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats if ingested.
English ivy: English ivy can cause vomiting and difficulty breathing in cats if ingested.
Philodendron: The leaves and stems of the philodendron plant contain toxins that can cause irritation in a cat’s mouth, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting.

It is important to keep these and other toxic plants out of reach of your cat to prevent accidental ingestion. If you think your cat may have ingested a toxic plant, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Give it a Read: Money Tree Toxic to Cats?

4. Oil and Diffuser for Cats

The use of essential oils and diffusers in the home can be harmful to cats if not used properly. Cats are more sensitive to the effects of essential oils than humans, as they lack the necessary enzymes to metabolize and eliminate them from their bodies.

Ingesting essential oils or coming into contact with large amounts of essential oils on the skin can be toxic to cats and can cause a range of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and tremors. In severe cases, essential oil toxicity can be life-threatening.

If you do choose to use essential oils in your home, it is important to take the following precautions to protect your cat:

Keep diffusers out of reach of cats.
Use diffusers in well-ventilated areas.
Avoid using diffusers around cats with respiratory conditions or other health issues.
Avoid applying essential oils directly to your cat’s skin or fur.
Keep essential oils and diffusers away from areas where your cat spends a lot of time, such as their bed or food and water dishes.

If you have any concerns about the use of essential oils and diffusers in your home, it is best to consult with a veterinarian for advice.

5. Cat Water Bowl Wash

It is important to keep your cat’s water bowl clean to ensure that they have access to fresh, clean water. Here are a few tips for washing your cat’s water bowl:

If you wash their water or food bowl, make sure not to use scented dishwashing liquids. Cats hate strong odors and these scents can discourage your pet from drinking water from their bowl.
Rinse the bowl thoroughly with warm water to remove any food debris or dirt.
Wash the bowl with mild dish soap and warm water, using a soft sponge or brush to scrub the inside and outside of the bowl.
Rinse the bowl thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue.
Dry the bowl completely before refilling it with clean water.

It is also a good idea to wash your cat’s water bowl at least once a day, or more frequently if it becomes soiled or dirty.

In addition to washing your cat’s water bowl regularly, it is also important to refill it with fresh water daily to ensure that your cat stays hydrated. If you are using a ceramic or metal bowl, consider using a water fountain, as running water may encourage your cat to drink more.

6. Investigate Cat Food Materials

There are a few reasons why it is important to investigate the ingredients in cat food:

Nutritional value: Different cat foods have different nutritional profiles, so it is important to choose a food that meets your cat’s specific nutritional needs. Look for a brand that lists a source of animal protein, such as chicken or fish, as the first ingredient, as cats require a diet that is high in animal protein. Avoid foods that contain fillers, such as corn and wheat, as they do not provide much nutritional value for cats.
Allergies and sensitivities: Some cats may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, such as corn, wheat, or soy. Investigating the ingredients in cat food can help you identify potential allergens and choose a food that is suitable for your cat.
Quality and safety: It is important to choose high-quality cat food that is made from safe, wholesome ingredients. Avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors, as these may be harmful to your cat.

If you have any concerns about your cat’s diet or nutrition, it is best to consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice.

Article: Friskis vs Fancy Feast

7. Not Training The Cat

Training your cat can be a beneficial and rewarding experience for both you and your pet. Training can help your cat learn important behaviors, such as using the litter box and not scratching furniture and can also help to strengthen the bond between you and your cat.

If you do not train your cat, they may develop inappropriate behaviors that can be difficult to correct later on. For example, if you do not train your cat to use the litter box, they may start eliminating outside of the litter box, which can be difficult to stop. Similarly, if you do not train your cat not to scratch furniture, they may continue to scratch even when it is not appropriate.

Training your cat does not have to be a time-consuming or difficult process. There are many simple training techniques that you can use to teach your cat basic behaviors and commands. If you are not sure where to start, you can consult with a veterinarian or a professional animal behaviorist for guidance.

8. Incorrect Selection of Litter Box

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when selecting a litter box for your cat:

Choosing a box that is too small: Cats need enough space to turn around and move comfortably inside the litter box. If the box is too small, your cat may feel cramped and may be less likely to use it.
Choosing a box with a lid: Lids can make it difficult for your cat to get in and out of the litter box, especially if they are older or have mobility issues. Lids can also trap odors inside the box, which may be unpleasant for you and your cat.
Choosing a box with a rough or abrasive surface: Cats have sensitive paws, and a rough or abrasive surface can be uncomfortable for them to walk on. Choose a litter box with a smooth, non-abrasive surface.
Choosing a box that is too deep: Cats prefer a litter box with a depth of about 2-3 inches. If the box is too deep, your cat may have difficulty digging and covering their waste, which can lead to accidents outside of the box.
Placing the box in a noisy or busy area: Cats prefer a quiet, private location for their litter box. Avoid placing the box in a noisy or busy area where your cat may feel stressed or distracted.

If you are not sure which type of litter box is best for your cat, it is a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a professional animal behaviorist for advice.

Give it a Read: Can two cats use the same litter box

9. Missing Cat Exercises

Exercise is important for cats to maintain a healthy weight, prevent boredom, and stimulate their minds. If your cat is not getting enough exercise, they may become overweight and prone to health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Here are a few ways to provide your cat with exercise:

Play with your cat: Use interactive toys, such as a laser pointer or a feather wand, to engage your cat in play. You can also create a DIY obstacle course for your cat to navigate or set up a scratching post for them to climb on.
Encourage your cat to hunt: Cats are natural hunters, and you can encourage this behavior by hiding treats or small toys for them to find.
Provide your cat with an outdoor enclosure: If you have a safe outdoor area, you can create an outdoor enclosure for your cat to explore and play in.
Take your cat for a walk: If your cat is comfortable with a harness and leash, you can take them for a walk outside. This can provide them with an opportunity to explore new sights and smells and get some exercise.

If you are not sure how to provide your cat with enough exercise, it is a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or a professional animal behaviorist for advice.

10. Giving Milk to a Cat

While many people believe that cats love milk and that it is a healthy treat for them, the reality is that most adult cats are lactose intolerant and cannot digest milk properly. Consuming milk or dairy products can cause digestive upset in cats, including vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating.

If you want to give your cat a treat, there are many other options that are safer and more suitable for their digestive system. Some examples of healthy treats for cats include:

Cooked, plain chicken or fish
Cooked, plain beef or turkey
Small pieces of cooked vegetables, such as carrots or green beans
Commercial cat treats that are made from high-quality ingredients

It is important to avoid giving your cat treats that are high in fat or sugar, as these can contribute to obesity and other health problems. If you have any concerns about your cat’s diet or nutrition, it is best to consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice.

11. Enough Drinking water for Cat

It is important to make sure that your cat has access to clean, fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration. Cats require a constant source of hydration to maintain their overall health and well-being.

If you are not giving your cat enough drinking water, they may become dehydrated, which can lead to a range of health problems, including kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and constipation.

To make sure that your cat is getting enough water, you can try the following tips:

Keep your cat’s water bowl filled with fresh water at all times.
Consider using a water fountain, as running water may be more appealing to your cat and encourage them to drink more.
Add a little bit of wet food to your cat’s diet, as wet food contains a higher amount of moisture than dry food.
Place your cat’s water bowl in a location that is easily accessible to them.

If you are concerned about your cat’s hydration or overall health, it is a good idea to consult with a veterinarian for advice. They can help you determine the cause of your cat’s decreased water intake and recommend the appropriate treatment.