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August Is International Cat Month

Yes, I am ready to play!
martie1swart
/
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Yes, I am ready to play!

Last week was International Cat Day but the whole month of August is International Cat Month. It’s a time to appreciate cats as great pets! So why August? Well, kittens born in June are ready for adoption so now is a great time to find the perfect feline friend!

One reason a housecat is a great pet is that you don’t have to be home by a certain time to let it outside to relieve itself. Set up a litterbox and your cat will be fine until you get home. (But remember, you still need to feed your furry friend on time – and a little petting and TLC from you makes for a happier pet.)

You will need to give your pet some attention – a cat is not a set-it-and-forget-it pet. The litterbox will need regular attention to keep it clean, scooping regularly and changing the litter periodically. Put it in a place that is easily accessible for your cat but away from any high-traffic area in your home.

Cats are not vegetarians. Your furry friend is a carnivore and so will need a high-quality diet that has meat or fish, something with protein and essential nutrients.

And believe it or not, your cat needs to play. Get a sturdy scratching post, and a few toys - then set aside some time each day to play with your feline friend. Our cat loves playing with a toy on a string. One end of the string is attached to the toy, and the other end is attached to a thin flexible stick. You can hold the stick and, with a flick of the wrist, send the toy flying past the cat, who will chase it and try to catch it. Then the toy gets away and your cat has to chase it again! Good exercise for your pet and maybe entertaining for you, too.

One other important thing your cat needs is regular checkups with your veterinarian. Keeping your pet up-do-date on its check-ups and vaccinations can help your cat stay healthy and live a long life, always an important goal when you’re speaking of pets.

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Mindy Norton has been “Speaking of Pets” on Alabama Public Radio since 1995.