Responsible Pet Ownership Month

February is "Responsible Pet Owners Month", and while I can't tell you who established this particular "pet holiday", I am always happy to promote responsible pet ownership, so this is one "holiday" we're sure to be celebrating over at TCS!

How to Be a Responsible Pet Owner

As a responsible owner, the most important thing you can do for your pet is to spay/neuter them and prevent more kittens (or puppies) from coming into the world. This is true for any feral cats you're feeding as well. This is, to me, the core issue when it comes to being a responsible owner, as it affects not only your own cat, but your environment as well.

Still not sure about that one? Please take a moment to read more about spaying and neutering cats here.

Next, be attentive to your cats' needs. Each cat is different, but these guidelines are true for every cat. Take a minute to explore and read the articles I've linked to in these:

Health & Nutrition

• Choose the right vet for you and your cat.
• Make sure you have available funds to provide medical care for your cat.
• Set up routine veterinary checkups for your cat, at least once a year.
• Decide on the appropriate vaccination protocol with your vet and follow through.
• Never de-claw.
• Educate yourself about feline nutrition, and find the best feeding protocol that's best for you and your cat.

General Care

• Create a safe environment for your cat.
• Make sure your cat has proper identification.
• Keep your cat indoors or make sure outdoor excursions are safe and/or supervised.
• Provide an environment rich in stimuli and opportunities for exercise.
• Provide plenty of appropriate scratching posts and never de-claw.
• If you have more than one cat, learn how to properly manage a multi-cat household.
• Never punish your cat. Learn why cats and discipline don't mix.

How do you feel about responsible pet ownership? what does it entail, in your view? would your list look like mine? share your thoughts in comments here!