Cat owners have a lot on their plates when it comes to caring for their pets. Aside from food, shelter, and affection, cat owners also have to keep their feline friends out of trouble. A recent survey conducted by a pet insurance company found that cat owners have to stop their cats from getting into trouble about 1,350 times a year. That's a lot of potential danger for a curious and playful pet.
The survey polled over 1,000 cat owners and asked them about the kinds of hazards their cats get themselves into. 59 percent said their cats regularly attempted to eat something they shouldn't, such as houseplants or human food. 27 percent reported that their cats had damaged furniture or household items in their quest for entertainment. 20 percent said their cat had knocked something over, like a vase or lamp.
But despite their mischievous behavior, 91 percent of cat owners in the survey said they found it impossible to be angry with their feline friends. This is something that many cat owners can relate to. Cats have a way of worming their way into our hearts and leaving us willing to overlook their occasional trouble-making.
However, it's important for cat owners to take their responsibility seriously and protect their pets from everyday hazards. One common problem that cats face is exposure to toxic substances. Certain foods, plants, and household items can be harmful or even deadly to cats if ingested. For example, chocolate is toxic to cats, as is lily plants. Cat owners need to be aware of these dangers and keep toxic substances out of reach of their pets.
Another issue cat owners face is managing their cat's weight. 43 percent of cats in the same survey were classified as overweight or obese. This is a serious health concern as overweight cats are more likely to develop health problems such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Cat owners need to make sure their cat is eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
Lastly, cat owners need to protect their cats from accidents and injuries. Cats are curious creatures and can get themselves into dangerous situations. This could include falling from a high surface, eating something toxic, or getting into a fight with another animal. Cat owners should make sure their home is safe for their pet and supervise their cat when they are outside.
In conclusion, owning a cat is a big responsibility. Cat owners need to protect their pets from everyday hazards such as toxic substances, obesity, and accidents. But despite the challenges, owning a cat is also incredibly rewarding. They bring joy, companionship, and entertainment to our lives. And for many cat owners, the love and affection their cats give them is worth all the trouble.