Do you own a cat? If you have ever befriended a cat, you should understand how unique and wonderful cats can be. Cats are animals that require a great deal of affection and attention. This is something that you can provide to them. Read on to learn more on how to properly care for your cat.

If your cat is a female, be sure to get her spayed when she is old enough. It does not matter if you an indoor cat; if she gets out when in heat, you can end up with many kittens. If you want to prevent this, spay your cat.

TIP! Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Shelters are overflowing with wonderful cats, and the adoption fee usually covers essential vet care.

Taking your cat to the vet is part of being a responsible pet owner. They should go at least once yearly for a check-up, and more often if they need any shots. If your cat has any health issues or injuries, you should try and have them seen right away.

If you have an outdoor kitty, make sure to invest in a break away collar with an identification tag. Cats can travel a long way and this will help you get them back easier if they’re lost. The tag needs your phone number and cat’s name at the minimum.

Most cats prefer to be mostly nocturnal. This means their behavior is quite active during the night. Try closing the door if your cats are keeping you awake at night. This will ensure you sleep much better, without cats jumping into bed with you.

TIP! Cats love to get into tight, small spaces. If your cat gets caught on something wearing a traditional collar they could end up hurting their neck trying to break free.

While usually cats make great pets for kids, younger kids may be too rough with them. Show your kids the proper way to handle cats. Teach them which activities are good and how to properly pick your cat up. Cats have weaker bones than dogs and need more gentle treatment.

When you get a cat for your kids, make sure your kids know the rules in advance. Let your children know which areas of the house are off-limits for the cat. Advise your children not to let the cat out if it is to be an indoor cat. Your children will be able to understand the rules more easily if they know them ahead of time.

Avoid letting your cat go outdoors. This can put your cat in an unsafe position. Cats can become infected with fleas, ticks and ringworm. Your cat may be targeted by another animal, or get injured by a vehicle or another person. If the cat must go outside, set aside a small part of the backyard or front lawn as a place where they can go.

TIP! If your cat is getting older, you can increase it’s comfort by placing its bed over a heated tile. Use a terra cotta tile to help relieve your cat’s aches and pains; put it in the oven on low heat – 200 degrees or so – for 15 minutes.

Speak to your peers about your cat issues. Although you may want to go it alone, it can be helpful to seek advice from other people that have experience owning cats. There are many online forums that discuss cats. Most vets will also be happy to help you with some advice.

You should give your cat at least three weeks to grow used to the presence of a new animal. They may swat at each other or hiss; that’s nothing to be concerned about. Cats usually learn to enjoy having a companion or at least put up with another one in their home.

If you desire a long-haired cat, it’s best to know what kind of care is involved before you do so. That lovely, silky coat won’t look nearly as good all over your floors as it does on the cat. You should not get a cat with long-hair unless you are ready to do a lot of cleaning. Long-haired cats are also more prone to hairballs.

Litter Box

Think carefully about where you put the litter box for your cat. Many people want it in an out of the way spot. This litter box must stay in an easy-to-find spot for your cat. Cats tend to be finicky, so you’ll want to provide a location that isn’t off-putting to your cat. If your litter box is on a cold surface, place a rug or mater underneath it.

Take your cat for checkups and vaccinations on a regular basis to keep him healthy and strong. Your cat needs to get some shots regularly to prevent different illnesses and parasites. Please consider your cat as a family member, and take good care of them.

TIP! Cats and small children may not always mix. Teach your kids the right way to hold a cat.

If your cat is prone to regular hairballs even after brushing regularly, keep reading for some great tips that can help you out. Adding in just 1 teaspoon of pumpkin mixed in with their food bowl can help with prevention. You may also use some tuna packing water to mix with your pumpkin. It is also possible to get help from cat food varieties containing fiber and other ingredients.

You want to make sure that you are taking good care of your beloved cat. You are now more educated on how to properly care for your cat. Use these tips for a happier cat. The love you give your cat will be returned unconditionally.