Cats are playful and fun animals, and you’ll soon waste whole afternoons playing games with your cats. May you are looking for a new way to entertain your cat. That doesn’t mean shelling out for expensive toys, either. Do as this article suggests and things will run smoother with your feline friend.

If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Many shelters have more cats than they can handle and the fees associated with adoption take care of vet visits. When you bring home a shelter cat, you will be saving its life and you will be doing your part to help out.

TIP! Never use any product intended for dogs on a cat. Products designed for dogs or other animals could cause a negative reaction from your cat.

It can be hard to stop your cat from coming on your counters. Cats enjoy high places so they can see what is happening around them. You can control this tendency a bit by making high places in the house that you feel comfortable having your cat utilize. An excellent tool for preventing your cat from jumping on the counter is a cat tower that is in the kitchen.

Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Even indoor cats can decide to run away at a moment’s notice, escaping through an open window. A tagged collar might help get kitty home, but it can just as easily come off if snagged on a branch. Microchips are very small, and you can note your name, address and phone number in there. Most shelters and veterinarians can scan your pet to read the information on the chip, and the chip cannot be lost since it is beneath the skin.

Do not allow your cat to be bored frequently. Cats require plenty of exercise. Many owners just don’t have time. Boredom can beget illness. Make sure you give them lots of toys and room to play. If they stay indoors make sure they have a scratching post for climbing.

TIP! Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. Cats can travel a long way and this will help you get them back easier if they’re lost.

Cats spend lots of time grooming themselves. Your cat can get hairballs in the event that their hair is too long. There are special foods that can ease this issue. There are foods that are made to reduce the frequency of hairballs. It’s a smart move for your cat and your sanity.

Your cat has sensitive ears, especially in the car when they’re stressed out. Although you may love singing loudly to your favorite songs while driving, your cat would probably prefer softer sounds. If your cat seems upset or agitated, turn down the music and speak calmly to him.

A battered appearance isn’t a good reason to discard a beloved cat condo or scratching post. Your cat will enjoy the post most when it has been well used. 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! Keep your cat amused. Play and exercise are both important for cats’ well-being.

Make canned food the mainstay of your cat’s diet. Although it is usually more expensive, canned food offers real nutritional advantages. Canned foods are also richer in fat, proteins and will help hydrate your cat. Canned food is much easier to chew for older cats. Ask your vet for more info, bun in general, canned food is much better for a number of reasons.

If you’re adding an additional cat to your home, give the cats a few weeks to get to know each other. They may be leery of each other at first and fight. However, cats should eventually learn to co-habitate properly.

Every cat loves to have lots of play time. Of course, all mammals like to play, regardless of age or species. An older cat may not be as energetic as when it was younger, but still enjoys light play. Play with your cat and give them the fun time it needs.

Litter Box

Your kitty’s litter box should be strategically placed. Your first instinct may be to hide it away out of sight and out of smelling range. This litter box must stay in an easy-to-find spot for your cat. Understand that cats are extremely picky. If its litter box is not in a convenient location, then your cat might not use it. Put a rug under it for cleanliness, too.

Are you now better informed as to how you can enjoy time with your cat? Not every cat is the same, so that means you may have to pick and choose some of the tips you read to try on your cat. A healthy, active cat will most often live longer and be happier.