scratching post

Top Cat Care Tips And Simple Advice To Help You With Your Pet

TIP! Think about having a microchip inserted in your cat. Even cats who live completely indoors may someday decide to bolt out the door or escape out of a window.

Cats make wonderful pets, however, they can also be a bit finicky. From nail clippings to specific diets, there are many things you must consider. This article will give you advice on how to properly care for your cat.

TIP! Your cat needs lots of affection and love. A cat’s companionship should be returned with the same.

Keep drape cords away from cats. If your cat plays with looped drape cords, they could get caught around its neck, which presents a suffocation hazard. It may actually cause them some serious harm. Therefore, ensure that drape cords are pinned away from your cat’s reach.

TIP! Cats love to be clean. However, if it has a lot of hair, hairballs can occur.

Take your cat in for regular vet exams. The vet will be able to provide your cat with needed vaccinations and any medications it requires. Veterinarians also keep tabs on your cat’s overall health and diagnose any problems they find. Try to stick with one vet during the life of your pet. This ensures that your vet knows your cat’s medical history.

TIP! Crystals in the urine, an issue many male cats have, can be avoided with the proper food. The cat is in pain passing the crystals, and the correction for this is costly.

Be certain your cat has regular vet visits. Your cat needs to get a checkup about once every year, or more if there are issues that come up. Cats must see their vet right away if they start having health issues, injuries or other problems.

TIP! When purchasing a tiny kitty as gift for the kids, it’s best to establish boundaries well ahead of the arrival. Let your kids know where the cat can go.

Make sure your cat is out of harms way by putting a little bitter apple on all the electrical cords to avoid them getting shocked. If the cat likes to chew on cords, its best to cover them as best you can. You can hide away any cords inside the rolls that come inside paper towels. Electronic items with thin, tempting cords should always be put away when not in use.

TIP! You should think before allowing your cat to go outside. This can compromise your cat’s safety.

Kitty claws can be quite destructive to fabric and furnishings. If you have a cat that is wreaking havoc, buy a scratching post. Use catnip or other scents that are attractive to your kitty to encourage him to go there. Although this may take time, your cat should eventually claw the device rather than your furniture.

TIP! Brush your cat on a regular basis. Brushing spreads natural oils throughout a cat’s fur, and also helps stimulate blood flow in their skin.

Don’t allow your cat become bored. Cats require physical activity. But many cat owners ignore that need. Bored cats can suffer from depression, extreme compulsive disorders, and other harmful issues that can negatively impact their overall health and well-being. Give them plenty of space to roam and provide them with toys to give them some exercise. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.

TIP! Provide your cat with a drinking fountain. Cats normally look to drink from running water.

Making sure your cat is taken care of can be easy if you know what you’re doing and if the animal behaves right off the bat. But, you have to remember that most cats won’t be that easy to take care of. Consider the tips presented here to help you become a better pet owner and feel prepared for whatever your cat has in store for you. The research you have done will pay off in a big way, for both you and your cat!

Tips And Tricks For All Cat Owners

TIP! You should be bringing your cat to their vet for a check-up regularly. Cats need vaccinations to keep them healthy, and your vet can keep an eye out for any other health issues.

It isn’t always easy to make a cat happy. They can be an enigma from the moment they enter your home. However, with the right knowledge, you can easily take proper care of them and ensure their happiness. Here are a few helpful tips to teach you how to care for your cat.

TIP! Cats like sneaking into small spaces. A collar can be a dangerous thing to wear in such a place.

Cats can get into even the tiniest of spaces. If they have a collar on, this might prove to be a safety risk if they happen to get stuck. Purchase breakaway collars that will give if they are yanked tightly. This can keep your cat alive.

TIP! Female cats need to be spayed as soon as they reach the proper age. Even if you have an indoor female cat, if it escapes when it’s in heat it could get you a bunch of kittens you weren’t planning on having.

Cat claws are one of the worst enemies of your home and furniture. If you have problems with a cat that shreds furniture, invest in a durable scratching post. They can scratch the post instead. Your cat will eventually understand they should only use the post or tower for scratching.

Frequently Bored

TIP! You may get much better prices on medications online. Though, in emergency situations, buying online may not be possible.

Don’t let your cat get frequently bored. Cats need play and exercise. Unfortunately, a lot of cat owners neglect this. Cats that are frequently bored may develop OCD, depression or other harmful conditions. Give them time and space where they can exercise and toys they can play with. A scratching post is a valuable toy to put in your home.

TIP! When traveling on the road with your cat, understand that they are sensitive to sounds. You might love blasting your favorite music while driving, but they enjoy softer sounds.

Cats are often nocturnal creatures. This means their behavior is quite active during the night. If your cats keep you up at night, kick them out of the bedroom. This can keep them from waking you up at night and from pouncing on feet under the blankets.

TIP! Are you the proud owner of both a cat and dog? Dogs often take advantage of dining on the cat’s food. This is why it’s important that the cat’s feeding area is in a spot that’s too high for a dog to get to.

The cat’s litter box should be placed in the right spot. Don’t put it where the cat can’t reach it or near their food. Make sure it’s properly ventilated to keep smell down. Your cat is certain to appreciate a litter box that is put into a good location.

Cat Outside

TIP! Cats enjoy being high up. For a truly happy cat, provide a safe place for your cat to survey his surroundings.

Don’t let your cat outside. It can be unsafe. Your cat can pick up fleas, or worse. Cats can be harmed by cars, people and other animals. If you must let your cat outside, do so in a very small area of your backyard or lawn.

TIP! Don’t scrimp when it comes to your pet’s food. Look at ingredient lists, making sure that a protein source, such as beef, chicken or fish, is at the top of the list.

Cats love being up high. Your cat will appreciate being on top of a cupboard, fridge or anywhere they can surrey their environment. You should install a cat tree or allow your cat to climb on some shelves. To complete the package, add a cat bed or blanket.

TIP! Canned food is an excellent choice for cats. Dry food can be less costly, but there are quite a few benefits to canned food.

Seek the advice of others if you have a cat that’s giving you problems. You can often get great advice from friends and family. There are also forums on the Internet which cater to cat parents.

TIP! Make sure your cat always wears identification tags on their collar. This is even true for indoor cats.

It’s important to let your cat see where you place the litter box, but it’s not always a good idea to force your cat to learn how to use it. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. While some folks think you should pick up your cat and place their paws against the litter, this can actually be traumatic.

TIP! Really consider where you place the litter box. You may believe that the litter box should be kept in a small place so that you won’t smell it.

Brush your pet often. This keeps the fur well oiled and the skin healthy. It also gets rid of shedding hair. This prevents hairballs, which can cause choking, and builds up in the cat’s stomach from self grooming.

TIP! Some foods that you like to consume daily might not be good for your cat to eat. These include garlic, grapes, green tomatoes and onions.

These tips will help you look after your cat and keep her happy. Use this article to ensure that you are fulfilling your cat’s most basic needs, as well as its need for love. Maybe your cat will even show his appreciation by being nice. Well…maybe.

Providing Your Cat With The Best Nourishment

TIP! If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters always have plenty of cats available and adoption fees are usually very affordable.

A cat can make a welcome addition to your family. Cats are enjoyed as pets by millions, but they need to be taken care of properly. They can really affect a cat’s well being. Continue reading to learn some excellent cat-care tips.

TIP! Keep your cat groomed. You should comb and/or brush them on a regular basis.

Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. Do not allow your cat to play with these. The cords may be looped and a cat may get them wound around their neck. This could even choke them to death. To stop this from happening, pin your drapes and hide them out of sight.

TIP! Put bitter apple on all electrical cords. If your cat likes to chew cords, hide the cords as best you can.

Heated tiles are great to put under a cat bed, especially for the comfort of aging felines. You should heat a terra cotta tile with your oven, at about 200 degrees, for around fifteen minutes. Keep this underneath your cat’s resting space for extra warmth. If you want, you can change it for a newly warmed tile a few hours later.

TIP! Set boundaries for your children when it comes to having a cat as a pet. Make sure your kids know where the cat can be.

Spay your cat as soon as she is old enough. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! Getting your cat spayed is a great way to stop this from going on.

Scratching Post

TIP! Cats may make a small mess outside their litter box. If this happens, it may be because you have not kept the box as clean as you should.

Your home furnishings can fall victim to your cat’s sharp claws. If you want to prevent or stop your cat from scratching up your furniture, the best thing to do is buy a scratching post or kitty tower for them to climb in. When your cat scratches inappropriately, redirect him to the scratching post. This approach takes time, but it usually works.

TIP! Feed your cat several different kinds of food if you want to the lower the chances of them becoming finicky. Keeping the same kind of food around most of the time makes it to where they only want that specific food.

You might find that your cat sleeps all day and wants to be active at night. They are often active at nighttime. Shut the door to your bedroom. This helps to muffle the sounds of nighttime play. This will reduce the frequency that they wake you up.

TIP! Think about how much extra care is entailed in bringing a long-haired cat into your home. That lovely, silky coat won’t look nearly as good all over your floors as it does on the cat.

A tablecloth should be made for your cats. Some cats prefer to remove their food from the dish and eat it off to the side. That means you will have to tidy up the food left beside the cat bowl. A simpler way to do this is by getting a place-mat and placing it under their bowl. You can also cut some fabric to make a tablecloth that can be lifted, washed, or shaken over a trash can.

Litter Box

TIP! If you’re dealing with a cat that won’t use the litter box, you should place it somewhere else. Cat’s sometimes just don’t like the location you’ve picked for the box.

You shouldn’t be training your cats for litter box use. They will do it on their own and don’t need to be taught. While many pet owners try to introduce their cats to a litter box by rubbing their front paws in the sand, this can sometimes traumatize your furry friend.

TIP! Your cat should stay inside most of the time, and when it’s outside, you should ensure it remains close to home. Cats who stay inside for most of their lives have a much better life span and are less likely to get diseases and parasites.

If your cat does not use the litter box, do not use punishments to try to discipline him. If this happens, it may be because you have not kept the box as clean as you should. If you punish your cat for this, it will fear you later in the future.

TIP! Don’t let a cat that’s had its claws removed go outside. They won’t be able to protect themselves against other animals, and they run the risk of getting seriously injured.

Go pick yourself up one of those water fountains for cats. When cats are in the wild they tend to prefer water that is running when they are thirsty, this applies to cats at home. Cats react better to a moving water stream. In fact, the running water in a sink garnishes more attention from a cat than their water bowl usually does. So a drinking fountain makes a smart investment that’s both environmentally friendly and loved by your feline.

TIP! Don’t give a cat human medications. Some people incorrectly give cats human medications thinking it will be okay in small doses, but it can kill him or her.

Keep a collar with ID on your cat. Even an indoor pet should have this. Cats are curious creatures and an open door or window is likely to be explored. Your cat’s identification tags should provide your contact info and that of your veterinarian. This will be important especially if you have a cat with medical issues.

Litter Box

TIP! Cats get some illnesses that we do. You will be able to tell when the cat isn’t well.

Think about where you want to put the litter box. It is temping to put it someplace where the odor will not be noticed. However, your cat’s litter box needs to stay in an easily accessible place so that he can find it. Cats tend to be finicky, so you’ll want to provide a location that isn’t off-putting to your cat. If you keep the litter box on a cold cement floor, put a mat or rug down underneath it.

TIP! Keep your cat inside if you don’t want him getting fleas, rabies or anything else. An outdoor cat is much more likely to be affected by these dangers than a cat who stays indoors all the time.

All animals are capable of getting parasites. Your cat is no exception. If you do not take action to ensure your cat’s health, the results can be disastrous for both of you. You can get rid of them and even prevent them when you use the featured methods. Use them to better your cat’s life.

Great Cat Tips Can Be Found In The Below Article

TIP! Visit your local shelter if you’re thinking about getting a cat. They have tons of amazing cats who desperately need a home.

Like humans, cats must eat healthy foods that will provide them with the nutrients they require.If Without a proper diet, you cat may end up malnourished or overweight. You can learn more about what foods your cat should be eating by reading the article below.

TIP! Make sure that your cat is well groomed. You have to make sure your cat gets brushed or combed often.

If you plan on getting a cat for a pet, try looking into a local shelter. Sometimes, you may find the cat of your dreams at a shelter. A cat gets a new chance at life and the cat population stays in check with adoption.

TIP! If you’d like to make an elderly cat’s bed more comfy, stick a heated tile beneath its bed. A terra cotta tile heated in your oven on about 200 degrees and for 15 minutes will do.

Cats can get into even the tiniest of spaces. If your cat wears a collar they might get hurt, and stuck. If your pet is wearing a breakaway collar, it’ll detach if it’s pulled too hard. This can save all “nine” of your cat’s lives.

TIP! You should not use products designed for other animals. It is possible that a dog’s product could cause a serious adverse effect on a cat.

Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If you find your cat shredding your furniture, consider purchasing a scratching post or cat tower. It is much better if your cat uses his claws on that, rather than your furniture. This will take some time but will be a valuable investment.

TIP! If your cat ventures outdoors, it’s key to get your cat a collar which has a contact tag. Cats enjoy traveling far away, so a tag can help your cat get back home when lost.

Keep your cat amused. Cats should have a lot of exercise and playtime. Too many cat owners forget this simple fact. A bored cat may fall victim to depression, compulsive disorders or issued that can be harmful to their health. Give them room to play and a large number of toys. Provide them with an indoor climbing area or scratching post.

TIP! Deter cats from shocking themselves on electrical wires by spraying them with bitter apple. If your cat happens to be a champion cord-chewer, you’ll need to use cord covers to protect your cords.

Cats are often nocturnal creatures. This means nighttime is an active time for your cat. Shut the door to your bedroom. This helps to muffle the sounds of nighttime play. This will keep the cats away while you’re trying to sleep because they won’t be jumping all over you.

TIP! Be considerate of your cat’s preferences while traveling. You may prefer loud music as you drive down the freeway, blasting your stereo, but your feline friend likes softer sounds better.

Many times, cat meds can be purchased on the internet for less than they’d cost if you got them from your vet. In some cases you may not be able to buy online, in the case of emergencies, for instance. But if you have to regularly buy pet medicine, you can save 50% or more on some medicines by buying online.

TIP! You must take caution when leaving your cat with any children. A child under five should not be left alone with a pet.

If you get a small kitten for your children, make sure they understand the rules ahead of time. Tell your kids which rooms the cat is allowed in. If you want the cat to be an inside cat, let the children know he cannot go outdoors. Your children will be able to understand the rules more easily if they know them ahead of time.

TIP! Long-haired cats require more care than their short-haired comrades. There is no denying that long-haired cats are beautiful, but that beautiful coat takes a lot of work and also means a lot of shedding.

As you’d expect, your cat’s health is very dependent on its diet. Eating too much bad food, or not getting enough nutrients is a sure way to cut their life short. Ensure your cat lives a healthy life with foods that are meant for them.

Cat-Care Strategies For Taking Care Of Your Best Friend

TIP! When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. Shelters all over the country are crowded with marvelous cats, and most provide veterinarian care with the adoption fee.

If you are seeking an excellent house pet, then a cat is an excellent choice. People who never have had a cat would probably get some use out of the article below. These tips are helpful for all cat owners who want to live a happy life with their cat.

TIP! Get your cat to a vet on a regular basis for the best health possible. They should go at least once yearly for a check-up, and more often if they need any shots.

Cats like sneaking into small spaces. If they have a collar on, this might prove to be a safety risk if they happen to get stuck. If your pet is wearing a breakaway collar, it’ll detach if it’s pulled too hard. A collar like this could save your cat’s life.

TIP! Make sure your cat has a collar and tag if outside. Understand that cats may travel a long distance; therefore, if it gets lost, this tag will assist you and others in finding it.

A cat can do a lot of damage to your furniture with its claws. If your couch is starting to look like it’s been put through a shredder, it’s time to invest in a nice scratching post or cat tower. It is much better if your cat uses his claws on that, rather than your furniture. Be patient, it might take some time for your cat to learn to use the post or tower.

TIP! It’s not easy to keep cats off counters. They love to be able to look around from up high.

Making sure your cat doesn’t jump on the counters is hard to do. Cats enjoy high places so they can see what is happening around them. One way to deal with this issue could be to devote certain high spaces for your feline friend to sit in. If you place a cat tower around the kitchen area, they may be less likely to lay on your counters.

TIP! Pick the right location for your cat’s litter box. Don’t put it where the cat can’t reach it or near their food.

Keep your cat amused. Cats need to play and get regular exercise. Unfortunately, a lot of cat owners neglect this. Boredom can beget illness. Make sure your cats have a wide variety of toys and plenty of room for active play. Indoor cats will appreciate having a structure they can climb on or a dedicated scratching post.

TIP! Adore your cat! They give lots of affection and need some in return. Cats have a need to communicate with others to show they are part of the family.

Crystals form in urine from male cats. This can be prevented with good food choices. The cat is in pain passing the crystals, and the correction for this is costly. Choose a low magnesium food. Check the label. Poultry products are typically lower in magnesium than fish products.

TIP! Cats spend lots of time grooming themselves. If your cat is long haired, this may cause hairballs.

You should create a tablecloth for the cats in your home. Cat’s will often remove food from their bowl to eat it. This can lead to a big clean-up. The best thing for you to do is to have a place mat underneath the cat’s bowl.

TIP! Cats can be great pets for children, but some younger children may be a bit too rough with cats. Make sure your child knows how to pet a cat.

If you are getting a pet, cats are a fantastic choice. Cats are great for reducing the stress in people’s lives. However, in order for them to give their best, they need to be properly cared for. Make sure you use the above advice so you can happily coexist with your cat for years to come.

Caring For Your Cat: Essential Tips And Tricks

TIP! If you plan on getting a cat for a pet, try looking into a local shelter. Shelters always have plenty of cats available and adoption fees are usually very affordable.

Cats have been a longtime human companion. Cats have inspired the songs, poetry and visual arts of many cultures. Cats think that they are independent and in charge at all times. By reading this article you can learn a few things that can help you to care for your cat.

TIP! Ensure your cat remains groomed. A cat requires regularly brushing and combing.

Cat’s claws can really put a dent in your furniture. Buy a scratching post if you need to protect the furniture in your home. Redirect your cat to the scratching post when they start to go after your furniture. Catnip can be put in the posts or on the tower to help train the cat to use it. It might take time, but eventually you will see that the damage to your furniture is diminished.

TIP! Take your cat in for regular vet exams. Understand that cats require vaccinations in order to stay healthy, and the veterinarian needs to regularly check for any health problems.

Try to avoid your cat from becoming bored each day. They need exercise and they get it through play. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. Make sure your cats have a wide variety of toys and plenty of room for active play. If they’re an indoor cat, get them an object to climb on or a scratching post.

TIP! If you have an outdoor cat, be sure he or she has a tagged collar. The collar and tag will make it easier to find the cat if it gets lost.

Cats are great pets, but little ones may not understand that they are fragile. Teach your kids the right way to hold a cat. Teach them which activities are good and how to properly pick your cat up. Cats don’t have strong bones like dogs do, so they need to be treated gently.

TIP! Do not allow your cat to get an electrical shock. Spray them with bitter apple, and they will stay away.

Do you own both a dog and a cat? Dogs will always try to eat a cat’s food. This is why you should have a feeding area for your cat that is too high for the dog to reach. This can prevent squabbles over water when their food is gone.

TIP! Cat’s claws can really put a dent in your furniture. If you are having problems with your cat clawing up furniture, then purchase a scratching post or kitty tower.

Speak with friends and family when you have difficulty with your cat. It is possible to work out the problem yourself, but help from others can be invaluable. You can find several cat forums online where you can ask questions, or you can choose to simply call your vet for advice too.

TIP! It can be hard to stop your cat from coming on your counters. Cats love being up high so that they can see.

Cats tend to think that they are the ruler of everything. When you use these tips, you can better your cat’s life and yours. One of the reasons cats are such a popular pet is because they’re so rewarding, and the tips above will help you get more out of your relationship with yours.

How To Care For Your Feline Charges!

TIP! Any drape cords should be hidden so the cat cannot grab hold of them. Cats can potentially strangle themselves on these cords so it is important to protect your cat from this potential danger.

Cats, like people, require a proper diet with the right amount of nutrients. Without a diet like this, cats can get sick or become overweight. Read the piece that follows to understand the proper diet for cats.

TIP! You need to take your pet to the vet on a regular basis. Your cat requires a variety of vaccines and shots to prevent illness, and it is also important to identify health problems before they become too severe.

If your cat is outdoors, it needs to have a tagged collar. Understand that cats may travel a long distance; therefore, if it gets lost, this tag will assist you and others in finding it. The tag needs your phone number and cat’s name at the minimum.

TIP! If your cat ventures outdoors, it’s key to get your cat a collar which has a contact tag. Tags can save you a lot of trouble if your cat gets lost.

Prevent your cat from getting zapped by coating exposed wires with bitter apple. Keep your cords covered if you feel like your cat is hellbent on chewing them. You can bundle loose cords into paper towel rolls that are old. Electronic items with thin, tempting cords should always be put away when not in use.

Scratching Post

TIP! Your home furnishings can fall victim to your cat’s sharp claws. If you find your cat tearing up things around your home, buy a scratching post or cat tower.

Cat claws are one of the worst enemies of your home and furniture. Buy a scratching post if you need to protect the furniture in your home. When your cat scratches inappropriately, redirect him to the scratching post. Your cat will eventually understand they should only use the post or tower for scratching.

TIP! Cats and small children may not always mix. Spend time instructing your children on cat care.

Your cat can take lots of time to groom themselves to what they consider “perfect.” Your cat can get hairballs in the event that their hair is too long. There are foods which help combat this problem. Certain cat foods are made just for decreasing hairballs, benefiting both your cat and yourself.

TIP! Do your best to determine why your cat is meowing. By paying attention, you should eventually learn why your cat is meowing.

Male cats often develop crystals in their bladder that come out in their urine. This can be prevented with a proper diet. It can be painful to pass these crystals and your vet bill will be priced accordingly. Your cat’s food should be low in magnesium. This means you should pay attention to labels on food. Products that have fish in them have more magnesium usually when compared to products with poultry.

Buying Online

TIP! Cats love to be high up. Allow them the space they need to feel safe while checking their world out.

If you’re looking for good prices on cat medications, check online sources. The prices will usually be substantially better than at your vet. Though, in emergency situations, buying online may not be possible. But if you have to regularly buy pet medicine, you can save 50% or more on some medicines by buying online.

TIP! Do not discipline your cat if it makes a mess outside its litter box. The major cause of such accidents is usually because the litter box hasn’t been given the proper care.

When your cat accompanies you on a trip, remember to consider the health of their ears. You may be tempted to blast your favorite songs at top volume. Cats, on the other hand, would probably prefer that you didn’t. Therefore, the volume of your music should be minimized, and turn it off completely if necessary.

TIP! You eat quality food, and if you want your cat to stick around a long time, they need quality food, too. Look at the ingredients and make sure protein like fish, chicken, or beef is near the top.

Diet is a very significant factor in the health of your cat. Eating a poor diet can really harm a cat. This article should have shown you all you need to know.

Easy Tips To Help You Manage Cats

TIP! Cats need a certain amount of grooming to stay healthy and presentable. A cat’s fur must be brushed or combed on a regular basis.

Feral cats are felines that wander the street. It is important to learn as much as you can about these creatures to assure you have the best relationship possible. Getting to know a cat’s needs and taking great care of it can help your cat to have a fantastic life.

TIP! Your cat will want to climb into small spaces. They can get caught or stuck if they happen to be wearing a collar.

Your cat needs to be groomed properly. A cat’s fur must be brushed or combed on a regular basis. This helps them keep their precious coat properly clean at all times. This will also reduce things like shedding and hairballs because it keeps them from having extra hair. Keep your cat looking at its best by grooming it well.

TIP! Take your cat to the vet regularly to make sure they remain in good health. They need a check-up and possibly vaccinations.

You need to take your pet to the vet on a regular basis. The vet will be able to provide your cat with needed vaccinations and any medications it requires. Veterinarians also keep tabs on your cat’s overall health and diagnose any problems they find. Make sure you keep the same veterinarian for your pet throughout its life. You won’t have to worry that the vet won’t have all of your cat’s medical records.

Flea Products

TIP! Make sure that you never neglect your cat. Think of all the friendship and comfort cats provide to us.

Don’t try using dog food or products for your cat. Cats don’t like dog products. Flea products especially. These dog flea products can even cause feline death. If your dog has been treated for fleas, keep him away from your cat for at least three hours.

TIP! Cats spend lots of time grooming themselves. Your cat’s long hair can cause hair balls.

Make sure your cat has a collar if it goes outside. This can help if your cat becomes lost while wandering in the great outdoors. Make sure at a minimum to put your pets name and your phone number on the tag.

TIP! Cat medications can be bought affordable online. There may be some cases in which you cannot buy online, such as in an emergency.

Your cat’s claws can wreck havoc on your furniture. Think about a scratching post or kitty tower if your cat’s claws become a problem. Redirect your cat to the scratching post when they start to go after your furniture. Catnip can be put in the posts or on the tower to help train the cat to use it. It might take a little while, but eventually it should stop the problem.

TIP! Keep smaller children away from pets as they are typically too aggressive. Teach your kids how to treat a cat.

Do you own both a dog and a cat? Dogs will generally try to eat the cat’s food whenever the opportunity comes along. This is why it’s important that the cat’s feeding area is in a spot that’s too high for a dog to get to. This also has the effect of stopping fights over the water before they start.

TIP! When you bring a second cat into your home, allow a few weeks for the two to adjust to each other. They may seem like they’re fighting all the time.

You can tap fellow cat owners for advice if you’re having problems with your pet. You can solve most problems by yourself, but you might benefit from the experience of others. You can locate forums about cats online if you search for them. On these forums you can ask for advice, or you can just speak with a vet.

TIP! Frequent urination outside the litter box may indicate a visit to the vet is required. A change in where or how a cat urinates can signal a UTI or other health problem.

Never reprimand your cat for missing the litter box. Improper box care on your part causes the mess, not the cat. If you punish your cat for this, it will fear you later in the future.

Drinking Fountain

TIP! If you notice that your cat isn’t using its’ litter box anymore, you need to take note. When cats are suffering from something, they may end up going to the restroom randomly outside of their box.

Think about getting a drinking fountain for your cat. Cats normally look to drink from running water. This is true in the wild or at home. The drinking fountain will look more inviting than a water bowl. Cats often like the running water more than their own bowl of water. Also, drinking fountains are more environmentally friendly and gives them the ability to drink naturally.

TIP! It is important to designate a big and comfortable area for your cat to deliver her kittens. The birth will take place over the span of several hours.

When your cat starts urinating often or in odd places, it may be time to see the vet. This sort of behavior can be caused by urinary tract infections or other, more serious medical issues in your cat. In many cases, cheap antibiotics will resolve the problem and keep your cat healthy.

TIP! Dogs wag their tails frequently when they are happy or excited to see their owners. Cats wag or move their tails from side to side as well, but not for the reasons dogs do.

Play is an important part of a cat’s life. In fact, play is a common activity for all mammals, including people and cats, no matter their age. An aging cat may not have as much energy as a kitten, however it will still enjoy a little light playtime. Therefore, be sure you set some time for playing with your cat.

TIP! Give your cat a collar with your contact information. Your indoor pet might even get out if you leave a window open.

You are now ready to protect your home and pets from feral cats. Cats are very loving creatures, once you get to know them. Cats need to be loved and treated with care. Maybe you’ll find one you fall in love with.

Excellent Advice About Cats That You Will Want To Read

TIP! If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. Bake a one-foot tile made from terra cotta in the oven at 200 degrees F for around 15 to 20 minutes.

There are so many joys you can get from just having a cat. However, it also takes lots of work to take care of a cat. Cat owners need to know of the responsibilities that come with having a feline. Thankfully, this piece will explain some of these responsibilities. Become aware of what the commitment entails, then approach it wisely.

TIP! If your cat is female, you need to get it spayed at the proper age. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! Spaying the feline is really the optimal way of dealing with this.

Taking your cat in for regular check-ups at the veterinarian’s office is part of being a responsible pet owner. Cats need to get shots so they don’t get sick and a vet can help you make sure your cat is okay. Do your best to use the same vet for your cat’s entire life. That way, the doctor will be familiar with the history of your cat.

TIP! Do not use dog products on your cat. If you try to use products meant for dogs, it can make your cat sick, or even kill him.

If your cat is a female, it needs to be spayed when it reaches the appropriate age. Even though your cat stays indoors all the time, there might be that one time she slips through the door when she goes into heat, which results in a litter of unexpected kittens. If your cat has been spayed, however, you won’t have to worry about this happening.

TIP! Prevent your cat from getting zapped by coating exposed wires with bitter apple. Most office stores sell a tube that you can stick all of your wires and cords through if the spray doesn’t work.

Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. Cats have very strong, negative reactions to products formulated for dogs. Be very careful with the flea products you use. Canine flea medications are strong and often made from a different formula than the feline version. They can cause death in cats. If you treat your dog for fleas, make sure you keep the cat away for several hours following the application.

TIP! It’s important that you don’t forget your cat and allow them to become bored too easily. It is necessary for them to play and get exercise.

Cats can use their claws to destroy furniture and other parts of the house. If you have a cat that is wreaking havoc, buy a scratching post. Entice them to scratch those items rather than your belongings. It might take time, but eventually you will see that the damage to your furniture is diminished.

TIP! A cat generally spends quite a bit of time grooming itself. If the cats hair is too long, this is what causes hairballs.

Keeping your cat off of the counter can be difficult. Cats have a natural predilection for staking out a nice elevated place where they have a good view of their surroundings. Give them an alternative. Putting a cat tower in or near the kitchen can help keep the cats from laying on the counter.

TIP! Anytime you travel with a cat, their ears should be monitored. They don’t want to hear you singing at the top of your lungs.

Microchip your cat. Even an indoor cat could someday jump through an open window. Other measures like tags and collars are better than nothing, but your cat may wriggle out of them or they may be torn off by outdoor hazards. Your important information can all fit nicely on a rice grain sized microchip. Almost every vet and shelter has a scanner these days, and they can retrieve your contact information should they find your pet.

TIP! A tablecloth should be made for your cats. A lot of time cats will take their food from their bowls to eat it on the food bowl’s side.

Be careful when leaving your cat with your children. If children are younger than five years old, pets ought not be left with them. These children just do not possess the maturity to handle a kitten. They aren’t aware of the danger that they can cause to it. As your child matures, carefully consider whether a small pet is safe with them.

TIP! Tell your kids what the rules are about your new kitten. Make sure your children know what rooms the cat can go into and what rooms it can’t.

You may find it is helpful to talk to others about challenges you have with your cat. You won’t have the knowledge to handle every cat issue properly, so take advantage of the experiences of others. You can also go on the Web and ask your question in a forum.

TIP! Are you the owner of both a dog and cat? Dogs love to eat cat food! You should keep your cat food away from the dog. This also ensures that there are no squabbles over the water between the two, when the food is gone.

Don’t get rid of an old scratching post. When it is in this condition, cats tend to like it the most. Removing the post could cause your cat to look for something else scratch, possibly damaging your furniture.

TIP! Understand that cats enjoy being elevated. For very happy cats, give them a safe place where they can look around at their surroundings.

As mentioned earlier, there’s a lot of great things about having a cat. If you desire for your cat to benefit from a long life, proper care must be provided. Use these tips to make your cat’s life complete.

Give The Best Care Possible To Your Cat With These Ideas.

TIP! Taking your cat to the vet is part of being a responsible pet owner. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due.

Does a cat reside in your home? Chances are, you know just how remarkable a cat can be. Your cat needs plenty of love and attention. The good thing is that it is very likely that you can meet these needs. Read on to learn more on how to properly care for your cat.

TIP! Don’t allow your cat become bored. They need exercise and they get it through play.

You never want to leave the cords of your drapes dangling down. Cats should not be allowed to play with these cords, as they can get parts of their body stuck in the cord loops. This could seriously injure or even kill them. Pin and hide drape cords to avoid this.

TIP! Discuss any issues you have with your pet with others. Although you might want to take care of things on your own, advice from other people with cats can be a big help.

Check your local animal shelter if you have plans to get a cat. Shelters have lots of great cats available, and your adoption fee often covers key veterinary services. Besides, adopting a cat from an animal shelter means you are saving this cat’s life.

TIP! If your cat relieves itself somewhere other than its litter box, it shouldn’t be punished. Usually, this sort of thing happens when the box isn’t being tended to properly.

Microchip your cat. You never know when your cat could get away from you. While a collar with a tag is useful, remember that your cat may be able to escape from the collar while they are away. Collars can also harm your cat if they get caught. A microchip, on the other hand, is inserted near your cat’s shoulder blades, takes only a second to do, and all of your current contact info can be read through the chip. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.

TIP! Be sure to carrier train your cat. Cats can’t be punished like dogs.

Do not allow your cat to be bored frequently. It is necessary for them to play and get exercise. Too frequently this need is overlooked by owners. Bored cats tend to develop emotional and mental disorders that may negatively impact their health. Make sure you give them lots of toys and room to play. If you have an indoor cat, offer him a variety of toys, scratching post or objects he can climb on.

TIP! Don’t get rid of an old scratching post. While it doesn’t appear clean and new, your cat probably thinks otherwise.

Your cat needs attention and a lot of affection. They want warm companionship since that’s what they provide to you. Cats need social time with the family just like people do so that they know that they are valued. They need to feel as though they are an important part of the family, as well.

TIP! If you are bringing home a new cat, make sure to give him time to adjust to your current cat. It usually takes about three weeks.

Although your cat’s old scratching post may look very worn out, you shouldn’t throw it away. When it is in this condition, cats tend to like it the most. If you throw it away and replace it too quickly with a new one, they may shun the new one and go after your carpet and furniture.

TIP! Think about where you want to put the litter box. It is tempting to place it out of sight, in order to avoid the image of it or smells that go along with dirty litter.

Purchase a drinking fountain for your cat. Cats out in the wild like to drink from running water, so they would like that at home too. Cats react better to a moving water stream. In fact, there are cats that enjoy drinking from a running sink instead of a bowl. A fountain will give them the same effect, and it is more environmentally friendly.

TIP! If you notice that your cat isn’t using its’ litter box anymore, you need to take note. There are a number of health conditions that can make your kitty urinate and go to the bathroom in places other than the litter box.

A collar and tags are a great way that your cat can be identified if it is found stray. This will be important even if you have an indoor cat. An adventurous cat can easily slip through an open door or window. The tag should have your name and address and also your vet’s. This is particularly important if you have a cat with medical needs.

TIP! If you notice your cat is not using the litter box, try moving it to a new location. A cat’s instinct tells him that eliminating puts him in a vulnerable state, so try putting his litter box in a safe, quiet area of the house.

If your cat or kitten begins to urinate frequently or in places other than his litter box, a trip to the vet may be in order. Cats can show this behavior if they have a type of urinary tract infection or other health issue. Affordable antibiotics can quickly resolve the problem.

TIP! Dogs will wag their tails often to show their owners that they’re excited to see them. Cats wag or move their tails from side to side as well, but not for the reasons dogs do.

You love your cat and want to care for them properly. After reading this article, you should know more about caring for a cat. Use this information to keep your cat as happy and healthy as possible. When you show your cat you love it, it will return the love.