Cats have no competition in the animal kingdom and are easily the best pets to keep around the home for several reasons. They can help keep your home free of rodents and they can also be very amusing to watch. It isn’t just rodents, cats can keep other pest animals away.

If you plan on getting a cat for a pet, try looking into a local shelter. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care. By adopting a cat from your local shelter, you will preserve a life and will do your part in controlling the cat population.

TIP! Make sure your cat has a collar and tag if outside. This can help if your cat becomes lost while wandering in the great outdoors.

Cats like sneaking into small spaces. Collars can be a safety risk if your kitty gets stuck. A collar that is a breakaway model will detach itself if it gets pulled on. A collar like this could save your cat’s life.

If your cat is a female, be sure to get her spayed when she is old enough. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! If you want to prevent this, spay your cat.

Be sure your cat gets regular checkups at the vet. A routine check-up should happen annually, and more often if necessary shots are due. Make vet appointments immediately if your cat has a medical condition or has become injured.

Flea Products

You shouldn’t ever use products designed to be used on dogs on your cat. If you try to use products meant for dogs, it can make your cat sick, or even kill him. This particularly applies to flea products. These dog flea products can even cause feline death. Actually, it is best to separate the cat from the dog once the flea problem has been treated.

A cat generally spends quite a bit of time grooming itself. Your cat’s long hair can cause hair balls. Buy special food in order to help that problem. Look for cat food that is designed to minimize hairballs to keep you and your cat happier.

TIP! The cat’s litter box should be placed in the right spot. It should not be placed in a high traffic area, and it should be far away from the cat’s food.

Your cat has sensitive ears, especially in the car when they’re stressed out. While you may like to crank up the stereo when you go cruising, your pet probably prefers you keep the volume down. If your cat seems upset or agitated, turn down the music and speak calmly to him.

You need to establish some boundaries if you are getting a cat for your children. Make sure your children know what rooms the cat can go into and what rooms it can’t. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. Make sure your children understand the rules from the get go.

Cats like to be high up to see the surrounding area. Your cat will appreciate being on top of a cupboard, fridge or anywhere they can surrey their environment. You do not need a big cat tree in the living room; simply provide a solid shelf next to a window. Providing a blanket or bed for your cat is an extra treat for them.

Litter Box

Never reprimand your cat for missing the litter box. If your cat makes a mess, it’s probably because their litter box is not properly cared for. Punishing your cat will just make them afraid of you later on.

Vary your cat’s diet just a tiny bit to keep them from being picky. If you feed your cat the same food all the time, your cat will likely be uninterested any any other brand or flavor.

TIP! You should create a tablecloth for the cats in your home. Some cats prefer removing their food from the bowl and eating it on the side.

Plan on spending the money for good cat food that contains the nutrients that your cat needs. Ensure that the food your cat eats is very high in protein. Don’t feed your cat food that includes corn or other fillers. You have a carnivorous cat, and a diet consisting of animal proteins is essential.

If your cat is urinating a lot or in areas away from the litter box, they may need to see the vet. For instance, it may be a sign the cat has a problem with its urinary tract. It could be the sign of other issues as well. A course of antibiotics often does the trick.

Make sure play time is an important part of your cat’s life. After all, everyone likes to play. Older cats might not be quite as energetic as they used to be, but light play can still be fun for them. Enjoy some playtime with your cat.

TIP! Think hard before allowing your cat outside. This can put your cat in an unsafe position.

Be aware of your cat stopping their litter box usage. If your cat refuses to use its litter box, there may be an underlying health concern. Infections and problems with the kidneys and bladder may be the culprit. Ask your vet if your cat begins missing the litter box.

Do not give cat medications intended for humans. If your cat is suffering from a medical condition, be sure and take them to a vet to get the proper medication. You can kill a cat by giving them human grade medications.

Cats have a keen sense of smell, which makes it simple for them to feel out changes in their environment. It can occur when something new is introduced to the home, like a new water bowl, scratching post or bed. If the cat doesn’t like it, don’t be alarmed. Your cat is going to like them more as they acquire your home’s smell.

TIP! Never reprimand your cat for missing the litter box. Improper box care on your part causes the mess, not the cat.

Although cats may not be considered man’s best friend like dogs are, they can make excellent household pets. You should consider getting a cat if you do not already have one. There are so many reasons that cats maintain a high popularity.