Why Does Your Cat Love to Nap?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

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Ever wondered why your cat spends so much time sleeping?  On average, cats sleep an average of 15 hours a day!  Here are a few reasons why your cat loves to sleep.

• Active Hours – Many new cat owners find it surprising that cats are actually the most active at night.  When you are getting ready for work, your cat will probably be getting ready for a nap.  However, cats are also highly sociable and can adapt their sleeping habits to their feeding schedules.
• Energy Reserve – Although cats are domesticated, they still retain the instinct to creep in the shadows and pounce on their pray.  When your cat is sleeping, they are reserving energy for running, pouncing, climbing and stalking.
• Sleeping Patterns – Cats switch between a light sleep and a deep sleep.  Cats doze off for fifteen minutes to a half hour at a time, positioning themselves so that they can spring up into action at any time.  They alternate this with a  five minute deep sleep.
• Weather – Just like us, cats tend to be sleepier on cold and rainy days.

To learn more about your pet’s habits and health, visit Bregman Vet Group! 

Training Tips That Teach Your Cat to Play Nice

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

You love your cat – but it can be frustrating when they scratch or bite you or a family member.  If your cat is struggling with behavioral issues, take the time to train him or her.  While you don’t want to inhibit their biological instincts, it’s okay to discipline your cat to play nicely.  Here are a few tips to help train your cat to get along with you and your family.

5 Cat Training Tips:

• Verbal Commands – When your cat does something it’s not supposed to - say “No!”  Don’t scare your cat by yelling, but let them know that you are serious and that what they are doing is wrong.
• Cold Shoulder – The other option is to give your cat the silent treatment.  Stop playing and showing affection as “punishment.”
• Spray Bottles – If your cat is prone to biting often, keep a spray bottle on hand.  Once it bites, immediately spray it with water.  This behavioral method will teach your cat to avoid the action that results in getting sprayed.
• Play Areas – Set up a play area with a scratching post and toys.  This will help your cat let out its need to scratch things without hurting you or a family member.
• Rewards – Offer rewards for good behavior!  If you notice your cat chooses to leave a situation rather than attack, offer a treat.

If you are still having trouble disciplining and training your cat, contact our office.  Our experienced veterinarians can offer tips and tricks to help improve the relationship between you and your cat. 

How to Care for Your Cat’s Litter Box

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

A litter box should be a safe and easy to access place for your cat.  However, both new and experienced cat owners are often confused about what to do when it comes to the litter box.  Here are a few tips that address the most frequently asked questions about litter box care.

Litter Box Tips:

• Teaching Your New Cat – Teach your new kitty how to use the litter box by introducing the cat to the box every morning and after meals and playtime. 
• How Many Litter Boxes – You should have one litter box per cat in your house.  This provides enough places for your cats to go.  Put the litter boxes somewhere that gives your cat privacy, but is also conveniently located.
• Choosing a Material – If you have a kitten or you are concerned about your cat eating its litter, biodegradable litter is a safe and eco-friendly option. Clay and silica-based litters are good for cats that are at least 3-4 months old. 
• Cleaning the Litter Box- You should scoop your cat’s litter box once a day to keep the area free of germs and clean out the full litter box twice a month.  Cat owners can also use baking soda to refresh the litter box and reduce odor.
• Picking a Size – Your cat’s litter box should be at least one and a half times the length of the cat.  If you’re not sure, pick the bigger litter box.

Cat owners can learn more litter box care tips here. 

If you find that your cat is spending too much time in the litter box, it could be a sign that something is not right with your pet.  Contact our office if you see your cat exhibiting this strange behavior.  Our experienced vets can also offer advice about choosing the best litter box for your pet.