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You Can Be a Responsible Pet Owner!
It is easy to be a responsible pet owner. Just remember that your cat depends on you to provide companionship, healthy food, veterinary care, shelter and safety. License your pet according to your local laws and have him/her wear an ID tag showing your name, address and telephone number at all times.
 | Make your pet an indoor pet. Your cat should live inside with the rest of your family. |
| Keep your cat on a leash or under your control whenever you take him/her outside for exercise. This will protect your pet from injuries caused by cars and other animals and from disease and theft, as well as keep him/her from being a public nuisance. |
| Spay or neuter your cat. This will keep him/her healthier and will reduce the problem of cat overpopulation. |
| Give your cat a nutritious diet, including constant access to clean water. |
| Provide your pet with plenty of exercise. |
| Be sure your pet receives proper veterinary care, and keep up with the necessary vaccinations, including rabies shots, to protect your pet, other animals, and your community. |
| Groom your cat often to keep his/her coat healthy, soft and shiny. Grooming sessions are a wonderful opportunity to bond with your pet. |
| Have realistic expectations about your cat; nobody is perfect. Make a commitment to work through any behavior or health problems that may arise. Don't just get rid of your cat! |
| Visit your
local animal shelter when it's time to bring a new pet
into your life and adopt one of the many homeless cats of
all types and ages who are waiting for a lifelong
responsible home. |
