Cats need to be entertained. If not, they may find entertainment in tearing up your home. You can stop this from happening by making sure they have enough toys. This article includes lots of information about cats and how to keep them occupied.

Cats enjoy getting into small spaces. If they have a collar on, this can be dangerous. Breakaway collars are made to come off if tugged on vigorously. This will help you save your cat’s life.

TIP! Check your local animal shelter if you have plans to get a cat. Sometimes, you may find the cat of your dreams at a shelter.

A microchip will allow you to find your pet if it is lost. Even cats that live their lives entirely indoors can suddenly escape out a window or door. Collars or tags can identify your cat, but cats can wiggle out of those, and they are also at risk of getting hung up on something. Microchips are very small, and you can note your name, address and phone number in there. All shelters and vets have scanners to ensure your cat gets home safely.

Do not allow your cat to be bored frequently. Play and exercise are both important for cats’ well-being. Too frequently this need is overlooked by owners. Bored cats can really be a problem. They can have health issues, OCD, and even depression. Give them plenty of space to roam and provide them with toys to give them some exercise. If you have an indoor cat, provide a kitty gym for them to climb on or a scratching post.

Grooming is something that most cats do all the time. If your cat has hair that’s long it could get hairballs. There are special foods you can give to your cat to reduce this problem. Some foods are enriched in fibers and vitamins to facilitate the digestion of the hairballs.

TIP! You shouldn’t ever use products designed to be used on dogs on your cat. Cats are not the same as dogs, and products meant for dogs can make cats very ill.

When you purchase a kitten for your child, set rules and boundaries beforehand. Let your children know what rooms you will allow the cat to go into. If you’re planning to have an indoor cat, explain to your children that the cat is not allowed to be outside. You need to establish some clear rules for your pet and ask everyone to follow them.

Cats feel safest in an elevated location. Make sure your cat has a safe place to play. You can use a cleared shelf if you’d rather not have a cat tree. The cat will especially enjoy it if you put a blanket on top.

There is no need to spend hours trying to litter train your cat. This is not something that needs to be taught. In fact, it comes naturally for them. A lot of people think that rubbing a cat’s paws in its litter box may help them, but in reality, it can be damaging to them.

TIP! Think about putting a microchip in your pet. Even an indoor cat could someday jump through an open window.

Brush your cat’s coat often. This helps to stimulate blood flow and circulation, and it will also help to evenly distribute the natural oil your cat’s fur has. It also gets rid of shedding hair. This can keep hairballs at bay because this can choke up a cat and also build up in its stomach.

Feeding your cat the proper canned food is ideal. While dry food is less costly, the canned food has added benefits. Canned food provides more water content for your cat as well as more fat and protein. Older cats also find it easier to chew up. Ask your vet, though canned food is often better for your cat.

Expect it to take several weeks for your current cat to accept a new cat in the home. Do not expect an instant friendship. Instead, look for them to hide frequently, hiss and possibly even become physical with each other. Eventually they will grow accustomed to it and start tolerating or even enjoying each other’s company.

TIP! When your cat accompanies you on a trip, remember to consider the health of their ears. You may love loud music, bit it might be bothering your cat.

If you want your cat to live a long, healthy life, be sure he gets his shots when he is supposed to an take him for a yearly check-up. Your cat needs these periodic checks and particular immunizations in order to stay healthy. Your cat is wonderful addition to the family, and must be cared for in the same way that you would treat all members of your household.

Cats have shockingly sharp noses, which means they can spot changes in their home with ease. When you offer a new feeding bowl, cat condo, or bedding, your cat may resist. Don’t be discouraged if your cat decides to ignore these items at first. Eventually the cat will get used to the smell and things will go back to normal.

Be on the lookout for panting. Panting is quite normal for dogs. Panting can indicate overheating or anxiousness; however, it can indicate health issues as well. Take your cat to see the vet if you notice it is often panting.

TIP! Why is your cat meowing? As you develop a relationship with your cat over time, it will become easier to determine why she is meowing. Possibilities include that she is hungry or wants to be let outside.

Cats can contract many illnesses that you do. You should be able to recognize when your cat does not feel well. A trip to the vet is worth the time and money in these cases. The vet will be able to make sure that they are not suffering from anything more serious.

Stay your hand if you’re tempted to feed your cat leftovers from your own meals. The additives in human foods and how we cook it isn’t good for felines. Egg, chicken, beef or fish are good options for a cat. Cat foods contain the nutrients your cats need, and if you are doing what the food’s directions say to do, then they should be fine.

Energetic cats need to be guided to playing with their own toys, so they leave your stuff alone. There are great ways to prevent cats from ruining your furniture and other belongings. Use the recommendations in this piece as you pick toys with which to occupy your cat.