How to Care for Cats & Dogs
- 1). Feed your cat or dog at least once a day. Check the guidelines on the food bag for the amount to give your cat or dog; it depends on their weight. Adjust the amount as necessary for your pet to maintain a healthy weight.
- 2). Provide fresh water for your dog or cat in an accessible place. Change the water daily, or when it is low.
- 3). Train your cat to eliminate in a litter box. Be sure the box is clean and accessible; when a new kitten/cat appears to be sniffing around instead of sleeping or playing, pick it up carefully and place it in the box. Whenever it uses the box, give plenty of praise. It may take a week or two to get the cat trained.
Clean the litter box at least once each day and change the litter out when it is dirty. Keep the litter box away from your dog, as dogs like the taste of cat waste. - 4). Give equal amounts of attention to each pet, making sure not to leave anyone out. Play with your pets every day.
- 5). Introduce new four-legged additions to your household gradually. Two dogs should meet on neutral territory for the first time rather than in the house or back yard. Introduce a dog and cat slowly, keeping the cat in a separate room with the door shut for the first few days. Feed the dog and cat on each side of the closed door so they associate each other's scent with food. When the animals are in the same room, give them treats for calm behavior. Separate them when they cannot be supervised until you trust them to get along.
- 6). Teach your dog good behavior through obedience training. Give the dog treats for good behavior and redirect bad behavior by asking for a "sit" or giving the dog a chew toy. Ignore attention-seeking behavior such as pawing, whining or head butting, and reward the dog with praise, petting and treats when he is calm.
- 7). Exercise your dog daily. Include at least one walk, as well as some off-leash play time, if possible. Teach your dog fun games such as fetch to help her burn off excess energy.
- 8). Spay or neuter your cat or dog if you do not plan on breeding the animal.
- 9). Take your pets to the vet annually for a checkup and vaccination boosters. Keep your pets on a monthly flea, tick and heartworm preventative. Consult a vet if your pet has any symptoms of illness.
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