If you are a first-time cat owner, you must have been spending most of your time on the internet, trying to learn all the basics. That sounds like a lot of work so to make it easier for you, we rounded up some of the best tips so you can better take care of your feline babies.

1. Provide Safe Space

The first few days are very critical as this will pretty much dictate how fast they can acclimatize in their new home. For kittens, you have to put them in a separate room or a dedicated area as they may get lost or hurt themselves while exploring. If you are taking in older cats, make sure that you put them away from dangerous things and other pets — the term “scaredy cat” was coined for a reason so trying to keep the surroundings safe and quiet would likely help them adjust faster. Also, make sure that if you are in the presence of kids, they won’t immediately rush towards their newfound friends as this can be overwhelming for cats and may eventually scare them off.

2. Feed Them Gradually

Cats are naturally finicky and this may especially apply when it comes to food. If you have recently discovered a new food and have noticed that your cat is just passing by their bowl or worse, having irregular bowel movements, their new diet must be the culprit. When changing your cat’s food, whether from dry to wet, introducing a new brand, or making homemade meals, do it gradually. Mix the new food with the old one to give your cats sufficient time to adjust.

3. Keep Surroundings and Litter Boxes Clean

Because of their natural survival instincts carried down from their ancestors, cats can be very particular when it comes to cleanliness. This is the reason why you should keep their litter box clean at all times. If you have more than one cat, secure one litter box per cat so they have plenty of areas to eliminate. The dirtier their litter box is, the more chances of them holding in their feces or urine which can, later on, cause bladder issues and more.

4. Visit The Vet Regularly

As much as you’d like to take things into your own hands, getting professional help is always the best option. Once you notice that your cat is not eating or there is any change in their normal behavior, take a trip to the vet for proper diagnosis and necessary intervention.

5. Make Water Easily Accessible

Most domesticated cats don’t drink enough water which makes them prone to urinary tract infection and other kidney issues. Two of the top reasons include their lack of interest in stagnant water and their sensitive sense of smell, making them refuse to drink contaminated water from contaminated bowls. To address this, you may have to bring home a pet fountain as running water will encourage them to drink more and keep their drinking water fresh.

The Cherry Pet Smart Pet Fountain is one of the most ideal options available in the market. If you don’t spend much time at home ergo, cannot change your cat’s water as often as possible, this smart pet fountain features 3-stage filtration system, water purity detection, and UVC light to kill water germs and bacteria. 

You can also control this remotely via the Cherry Home app which may be downloaded for free on your Android or iOS smartphone. It also highlights a 2L capacity so you can leave your home without worrying about refills. Definitely a smart pet product for the smart furparent like you. Get this for only PHP 4,400 by visiting Cherry Shop PH at cherryshop.com.ph