Cat Health Symptoms

The best way to get and take care of a cat?

I was looking into cat breeds and finally found the perfect one, an Ocicat. I love the breed and have done alot of research on it. Problem is im new to owning pets let alone a cat. I need to know how to go about getting one and cat care. Stuff like a litter box, a bed, food, and toys are among some of things I need to know about. As always all your help is greatly appreciated.

Public Comments

1. once you find your kitty, it will all come to you. first things first.......find a veterinarian. then go to your local pet store (petco is awesome) and get an associate to guide you on things you need and the coolest and latest toys. don't forget to feed him/her everyday and clean the litter box.
2. Find an affordable and reputable vet in your area. The kitty will need shots, get spayed, and when it's sick it needs a vet. It would be a shame to get an expensive cat and it dies because you can find/afford a vet. :( Otherwise, make sure the litter box is clean, fresh food (don't leave food in the bowl all day, it isn't healthy) and keep the kitty indoors. Make sure you are there for him so he isn't lonely.
3. Go to your local shelter and adopt an animal in need, get some cat food and a litter pan. Love them, pet them, take care of their basic needs and you'll have a lifelong friend. As far as breeds or whatever - I've got nothing for you there. My cat is half family friend cat, half sneaky neighbor cat and he would have gone to the shelter if he didn't come home with me....
4. Congrats on deciding to take a furry feline friend! They can be the best source of amusement and companionship imaginable! After you get your cat in your home you will need to teach it manners (staying off the kitchen table, counter tops etc...) For this I use a spray bottle but make sure the cat does not see you with it! Secondly, NEVER hit your pet. The only thing this shows them is that your hand can not be trusted. For clawing on furniture I find tape (rolled so the sticky side is out) in edges of couches and wall corners or anywhere they tend to claw, works well. They hate the feeling of anything sticking to their feet. You will need clippers for the nails (Declawing is very painful as they remove part of their finger...not just the claw) You will need a short bristled cat brush to groom her because she will shed. A good vet, in case of medical needs and for spaying or neutering. The most important thing of all thow is LOVE!!! She/he will need plenty of that! A cat is a wonderful pet to have and you will have her/him for many years to come! If you treat a cat with love, tenderness and gentleness she/he will be one of the best things that have ever happened in your life! Again Congrats! If you need any advice or just want to ask a question you can email me and I will be more then happy to try to help in any way that I can. My email is chopps84@hotmail.com
5. That would be like never owning a horse before and rushing out and buying a wild mustang. Please read up about cat care and research the Ocicat. This cat is a hybrid which means it has wild ancestry so it's not your average housecat and definitely is not as easy to care for. If you've never had a cat before why don't you just go to your local shelter and find one? But then are you wanting a cat to have a loved member of your family or are you wanting an Ocicat just because you think it would impress others? Please don't get a pet for the wrong reasons or impulsively. That's one of the reasons so many animals get dumped at shelters.