Owning a Black Tabby

Cats are amazing animals that make wonderful pets and companions, and there is naturally many different types and breeds. In most cases black tabby cats have black stripes on grey fur, and their markings are similar to a tiger. It's unclear what type of cats mate to produce a black tabby, but in many instances one of the parents is a black cat. A black tabby is a cute breed that requires the same type of care as you would provide for any other house cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Food
  • Litter box
  • Cat litter
  • Scratching post
  • Toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy food that is made for kittens, because it has extra nutrients that it will need. It's good to mix soft and hard food for kittens, and adult cats are fine with hard food only. Kittens should be fed up to five times a day until they are a few months old. As the kitten grows, feeding it three times a day is sufficient. Kittens are usually trained by the mother when it comes to going to the bathroom, so you don't need to train a kitten how to use a litter box. However, when you choose a place to put the litter box, take the cat or kitten to the box and leave it in the same place, so it knows where to find it at all times.

    • 2

      Change the water daily. Cats and kittens should always have fresh water and their food bowls should be kept clean at all times. Scoop the litter box daily. Cats do not like dirty litter boxes, and it's important that you clean the litter box and replace it with fresh cat litter at least once a week.

    • 3

      Take the cat or kitten to the vet to get it the shots it needs. Shots for feline distemper are given in a series of two shots a few weeks apart. This shot is repeated annually. Outdoor cats should also receive vaccines for feline leukemia and feline aids.

    • 4

      Train your cat to use the scratching post, so that it doesn't rip furniture or carpeting. This can be done using treats for positive reinforcement. Any time the cat scratches something other than the scratching post, pick it up, take it to the post and place its paws on the post. Give the cat a treat and he will soon associate scratching the post with receiving a treat. De-clawing cats is painful for them and shouldn't be done unless absolutely necessary. An outdoor cat should never be de-clawed, because cats use their claws for defense and to catch prey.

    • 5

      Play with your cat. Playtime is important to cats because it allows them to use their hunting instincts and develop their physical abilities. Use toys for the cat to chase and bat around. Give your cat affection. Cats are affectionate animals that enjoy human interaction such as petting and holding. However, not all cats like to be held, so do not hold the cat against its will. If it doesn't want to be held, let it go.