People have had cats as pets since the beginnings of recorded time. There are many different novels and plays that have cats as the main theme. It’s not surprise, because cats think they are the boss. This article will teach you some ways to show your cat you care.

Drape cords should be kept distant from 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 accident could trap or injure your cat, or even be fatal. Keep all drape cords out of reach as a preventative measure.

TIP! You should be bringing your cat to their vet for a check-up regularly. Cats need to get shots so they don’t get sick and a vet can help you make sure your cat is okay.

Keep your cat properly groomed. You should comb and/or brush them on a regular basis. This will keep them sterile and aesthetically pleasing. It also reduces their shedding and hairballs. Regularly grooming your cat will help keep it and your home looking great.

Make sure your cat sees a vet regularly to maintain their good health. Your cat should always go to the vet for a check up, especially if they need shots. Make vet appointments immediately if your cat has a medical condition or has become injured.

An outdoor cat must always wear a tag on its collar. Cats can range far from your home and the tag will help them find their way home. Have your phone number engraved on the tag.

TIP! Keep your older cat comfortable by placing a heated tile underneath its bed. Just get a tile and heat it up in the oven for a while to place under the cat’s bed.

Grooming is something that most cats do all the time. Long hair encourages hairballs. There are special foods you can buy to try to help with this particular problem. Certain cat foods are made just for decreasing hairballs, benefiting both your cat and yourself.

Brush your cat often. This will spread a cat’s oils from their fur and help blood flow from within their skin. It will also remove loose hair. This can keep hairballs at bay because this can choke up a cat and also build up in its stomach.

Litter Box

TIP! If your cat is a female, you’ll want to spay her once she reaches the proper age. Even if your cat is an indoor cat, if she escapes while she is in heat you might end up with a lot of kittens on your hands.

If your cat relieves itself away from its litter box, do not spring into action with punishment. Many times, this is caused by failure to properly clean or place the litter box. If you get mad, they’ll never use the box again.

Vary your cat’s diet just a tiny bit to keep them from being picky. If you feed them the same cat food every day, they may not accept anything else. This makes it difficult to find food they’ll eat when a store runs out of a certain brand, or you are traveling.

Ensure your cat is collared and wears an identification tag. Even if it’s an indoor cat, this is important. Cats love to explore, and if they see an opportunity to go outside, they will take it. The tag your cat wears should display your number and your veterinarian’s information. This is also essential if they have specific medical needs.

TIP! Be sure your cat gets regular checkups at the vet. Your cat should always go to the vet for a check up, especially if they need shots.

If you notice your cat is urinating a lot or at improper places, you should take it to the vet. A change in where or how a cat urinates can signal a UTI or other health problem. Certain antibiotics prescribed by your vet can clear up the problem.

Dogs let you know when they are excited and/or happy when they wag their tails. Cats may wag as well, but the meaning can be quite different. Cats wag tails if they sense conflict, or if they’re trying to decide whether to fight or flee. If you’re snuggling your kitty and you see its tail wag, it’s a sign you should put it down before you get scratched.

If you decide to declaw your cat, never allow it to go outside. Cats without claws cannot stand up for themselves if they encounter another animal. The result could be injuries or death. Declaw your cat if you plan on always having it inside. It is important to note that if you are declawing a cat, only the front claws on the cat should be removed. Leaving the back claws are important so that your cat can scratch themselves.

TIP! An outdoor cat must always wear a tag on its collar. Cats enjoy traveling far away, so a tag can help your cat get back home when lost.

Sometimes, cats may think they know it all. The best way to give your cat the love and care it needs is to follow these guidelines. Cats are loved by people because they are great pets, and these suggestions should help you make the most of yours.