Experts reveal 13 things you should never do to your cat

Sophia MitrokostasNov 23, 2020, 20:48 IST

Some pet owners don't always know what their cats need.Shutterstock

There are certain things that pet owners should never do to a cat.
Contrary to popular belief, you should not give your cat yarn or milk.
Scolding a cat using loud sounds usually won't help them learn and they might just start to fear you.

Cat owners know that every feline has its own distinct personality, but there are certain guidelines that pet owners should be aware of.

Insider consulted with veterinarians and veterinary technicians in order to highlight a few things that cat owners sometimes get wrong.

From exposing them to harmful houseplants to accidentally training them to scratch humans, here are a few of the worst things you can do to your furry friend:

Never force attention on your cat.

Allow your cat to come to you for affection and learn to understand when it wants to be left alone. Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images

Don't bring plants into your home before checking that they are safe for cats.

There's nothing like a fresh bouquet of flowers to brighten up a room — unless, of course, they end up poisoning your cat. Shutterstock

Don't let your cat play with yarn or string.

That classic picture of a kitten batting around a ball of yarn is actually a dangerous scenario. Shutterstock

Owners should not teach their cats to "hand play."

Cats might begin to think your fingers are toys. Shutterstock

Never directly punish your cat, whether you plan on tapping their butt or using a loud sound.

It might make your cat avoid you. iStock

Avoid feeding your cat only dry food.

Cats need to stay hydrated. Shutterstock

Don't "free feed" your cat.

Although it may be easy to leave out an overflowing bowl of food for your cat to snack on, cats will be tempted to overeat if their food bowl is always brimming. Shutterstock

Cats tend to like the sweetness of milk, but you should avoid indulging them with a saucer of the stuff.

Your cat might like the milk, but it may not be good for them. Shutterstock

Never give your cat animal bones to chew or eat.

No pet should be chewing on bones. Shutterstock

Unless your veterinarian has given you a medical reason for doing so, do not shave your cat.

Cats aren't meant to be shaved. Shutterstock

Do not give your cat medication that's meant for humans or for dogs.

Be safe and always check with your veterinarian before giving any medications to your pets. Shutterstock

You really shouldn't leave your cat alone for more than 24 hours.

Cats aren't always entirely self-sufficient. Shutterstock

Don't disregard your cat's changes in behavior.

Cats can't express how they feel in the same way that humans can. iStock

I visited a United Club during the pandemic and saw how the airline is re-imagining the airport lounge as it slowly welcomes back travelers

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