How to Develop a Stronger Bond with Your Cat
It is about that time again to make resolutions to enhance your life in the New Year. Some of the typical decisions include stopping bad habits, eating healthier and joining a gym among others. However, you should also consider developing a stronger cat bond. Here are some practical guidelines for improving the relationship with your favorite pets:
Set Time Aside For Your Pet
It is easy for cat owners to ignore their pets, especially since they seem self-sufficient and a generally well-behaved. The reality is that there are so many distractions for owners, from TV shows and smartphones to household work that could stop you from spending quality time with your pet. The solution is to set some time aside every day to interact with your cat without getting distracted by anything.
Find out Your Cat’s Desires
The next step in strengthening the relationship with your cat is to understand what they love. Discover activities that the cat enjoys and incorporate that into the day. You should even add some play toys to the mix as they help in stimulating your cat’s need for chasing things. For example, using foraging toys can boost your cat’s inbuilt instincts.
Train your Cat
Training is not something you would typically associate with cats, as it is more often linked to obedience training in dogs. However, the reality is that cat training is an excellent way of building better communication between both of you. You only need a clicker along with some necessary information about cat training to get started. Start with natural behaviors like sitting up before moving to other complicated tricks.
Listen to Your Cat
Cats communicate every day, and most owners tend to overlook their vocalizations as either annoying or cute, without really thinking about the meaning behind the sounds. The other way of building stronger bonds is resolving to watch and hear what your cats are saying. That involves learning their daily routine and general behaviors, which is critical since most behavior changes signify poor health. You will also need to research more information about cat body language to ensure you understand what is going on.
Plan a Regular Veterinary Visit
Data from the AMVA shows that cat owners take their precious pets to see the veterinarian fewer times compared to dog owners. It is therefore likely that it has been a long while since you visited the vet. Remember cats require a regular physical examination every year, so ensure you plan for that.
References: Pet Health Network, I Heart Cats
Copyright: Local Value
