A cat purr is a truly satisfying sound. This is usually very relaxing to listen to, and it also appears to be a reflection of peace and contentment in your cat. That is why it is important for you to take care of your cat and keep him happy. The below article contains excellent advice on how to properly care for your cat to ensure it stays happy.

If you plan on getting a cat for a pet, try looking into a local shelter. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. A cat gets a new chance at life and the cat population stays in check with adoption.

TIP! Cats enjoy getting into small spaces. If they’ve got a collar on, this may put them in danger as it can get stuck.

Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. Cats have very strong, negative reactions to products formulated for dogs. This will especially be true if it’s a product for fleas. Flea products that are intended for a dog can kill a cat. In fact, it is a good idea to separate your cat and dog for a few hours after your dog has taken flea medication.

If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. Cats can roam far, so a tag will ensure you find them quickly when they’re lost. You have to be sure you have your pet’s name and number written on the tag.

Keep your cat away from boredom. Cats need stimulation. But, too many cat owners fail to realize this. Bored cats tend to develop emotional and mental disorders that may negatively impact their health. Give them toys they can play with, play with them yourself, or at the least give them room to exercise. Be sure your cat has something they can climb and something they can scratch if they stay inside.

TIP! If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. You can do this simply with a terra cotta tile measuring a square foot.

Your cat has sensitive ears, especially in the car when they’re stressed out. They don’t want to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. So, keep your volume down, or turn it off to give your cat a better travel experience.

Create a little tablecloth for your cat. Cats often take food from their bowls to eat on the side. If this happens, you’ll have to clear away any excess food that’s left outside. Something as simple as a place mat can help make cleanup easier.

Litter Box

TIP! If your cat is a female, you’ll want to spay her once she reaches the proper age. Even if she spends her time indoors, it is possible for her to escape while in heat, causing an unwanted pregnancy.

Do not attempt to teach your cat how to use the litter box. This comes naturally – you can’t teach it. Some cat owners believe they should expose their cat to the litter box and rub its paws into the litter; however, this may actually have the opposite effect and make your cat scared of it.

Brush your pet often. This will help stimulate blood flow. You will also decrease the amount of fur throughout your home. This is a good way to avoid hairballs, which are a serious health problem since they can cause choking.

Although you might find its appearance unappealing, don’t toss a scratching post when it’s getting particular worn and frazzled. It may not look as nice, but cats love a scratching post with some wear and tear. There is a good chance if you got rid of it and bought a new one that your cat would start scratching up your furniture.

TIP! Have your cat see a vet frequently to keep good health. Cats need routine annual check-ups and possibly additional ones as well for vaccinations.

Give high quality canned food to your pet cat. Even though the dry versions can be more cost-effective, canned cat food usually is more beneficial. Your cat will get more water and more vitamins and protein. As your cat ages, canned food is more easily chewed. Speak with your veterinarian before making any major changes, however in general, canned food is better for your cat.

Your cat should always wear a collar and ID tag. Even an indoor pet should have this. Cats tend to be curious and open doors and windows can be inviting. The identification tags should contain your home phone number and the number for your veterinarian. Include your cat’s special diet or medical needs on his identification.

It’s important for your cat to get plenty of playtime. No matter what age, play is common among cats and other animals. Kitties who are senior citizens may not be super energetic, but they still enjoy playing. Play with your cat and give them the fun time it needs.

TIP! Deter your cat from chewing on inappropriate things by using bitter apple. If your cat likes to chew cords, hide the cords as best you can.

Make sure you consider where you are going to place the cat’s litter box. You are surely tempted to put it where the smell will affect your surroundings the least. However, if you hide it from your pet he might not try very hard to find it when he needs to go to the bathroom. Cats can be finicky, so it is important that you give them an environment they feel comfortable in. If your litter box location is on a cold floor, you may want to put a rug underneath of the box.

Certain foods may be fine for you to eat daily, but not for your cat. Onions, garlic, grapes and green tomatoes are among these foods. These items can make your cat very ill. Milk upsets a cat’s stomach, too.

Chemicals containing phenol shouldn’t be anywhere near your cat. Phenol is found in common products such as Pine-Sol, Lysol, and various other cleaners. Not only is the smell offensive to cats, but exposing them to this chemical for prolonged periods of time can lead to problems with their liver.

TIP! Your home furnishings can fall victim to your cat’s sharp claws. If you have a cat that is wreaking havoc, buy a scratching post.

Cats purr when they are happy, so any cat owner who wants their cat to purr more often needs to pay attention to proper cat care. Cats are gorgeous and by using this advice, are also easy to care for. If the sound of a cat’s purr makes you smile, try these handy hints.