Special Caretaking Tips for the Mackerel Tabby

The Tabby is one of, if not, the most common type of domestic cat there is. Tabby is really not a breed, but a coloration of the cat’s fur. There are variations of the colors, giving them different names, such as the classic tabby, the spotted tabby, the ticked tabby, the patched tabby, and the mackerel tabby. All have multiple colors that are marbled in some form or fashion and it depends how the pattern is displayed on their body as to what type of tabby they are considered. The mackerel tabby has a series of stripes that run parallel down the cat’s body. They are not broken stripes and they are evenly spaced. The stripes all extend from one primary stripe that runs down the length of the cat’s spine and all branch out from there. Many people refer to it as a fish skeleton, hence the name, “mackerel.” If you are in the market to get a mackerel tabby kitten, you will want to know how to care for your new feline, so keep reading to learn some special caretaking tips for your mackerel tabby.

1. Socialize your kitten

These types of cats are typically friendly and lovable, however, they can be aloof, or, not as friendly as you’d hoped they’d be if you don’t socialize the cat early on. A lot of cat breeds have their independent streak, but if they aren’t accustomed to being around people or other animals, they can become even more independent and prefer to be on their own more than to be around people. Also, cats tend to attach themselves with one particular caretaker, but the more you get the whole family to be involved with, and interact with the cat, the more accepting your kitty will be of everyone in the family.

2. Litter

Cats are fairly easy to litter train. Typically it just takes showing your cat a few times where its litter box is, and it will soon know exactly where to go. Mackerel tabby cats are intelligent and should have problem learning what the litter box is and where it is, but it is often recommended that for a young kitten, you keep the kitten in the same room with the litter for a couple of days to ensure they are familiar with where it is.

3. Grooming

Cats are known to be very clean animals. Their self-cleaning abilities are one of their big selling factors, however, some cats do shed and you can help temper their shedding by helping with their grooming. Brushing your mackerel tabby on a regular basis will help get rid of the loose fur in their undercoat that comes to the surface and drops off throughout your home. You may also want to bathe your tabby periodically to help keep your kitty really clean and especially during high-shedding months.

4. Vet checks

Keep your mackerel tabby up-to-date with their vaccinations and regular check-ups in order to keep your cat as healthy as possible. Vaccinations are important to make sure you help prevent common feline diseases and regular checks can help catch and prevent illnesses, as well as help your doctor catch problems early so treatment can begin as soon as possible.

5. Feedings

Your cat should be on a high quality cat food. They are meat eaters and need to be given foods that will help ensure their optimum health. Kittens should always be fed food that is meant for their young age and fast growth and adult cats need food that is meant for their age group, as they go from stage-to-stage. If you aren’t sure what you should be feeding your mackerel tabby, talk to your vet for recommendations for your cat’s age, weight and general health.

The more you know ahead of getting your mackerel tabby, the more prepared you are to give your feline the best care for a long, healthy life.

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