Any time you have a new pet, you are likely to face a variety of unique challenges. These challenges can also arise after many years with a cat. If you don’t prepare for your cat in advance, you will be in trouble. Sometimes problems will arise no matter what you do. A great idea for you is to read the suggestions here and add a few more tidbits to your list of expectations.

Drape Cords

TIP! Keep your cat properly groomed. Cats should have regular combings.

Keep your drape cords out of your cats reach. Keep the cat away from these cords as they tend to form loops when the cat is playing around, and it could accidentally go around their neck and strangle them. This is incredibly dangerous as it could be fatal for your cat. To prevent this from happening, keep any drape cords pinned away from any eyes.

Cats like to get into all sorts of small spaces. If they have a collar on, this can be dangerous. Breakaway collars are designed to release in these situations. This will help you save your cat’s life.

Take your cat to the vet every year. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due. Cats should see a vet right away if any health problems or injuries needing treatment occur.

TIP! You can make your old cat feel better thanks to a hot tile placed under its bed. Simply heat a terra-cotta tile in a 200 degree oven for 20 minutes.

Put a collar on any cats which go outside. Cats can travel a long way and this will help you get them back easier if they’re lost. The tag should contain your name and number for contact purposes.

Cats can tend to be more nocturnal than not. Do not be surprised if your cat is very active at night. Close the door to prevent the noise from getting to you. They should stay away from you at night and then they will not be able to jump on your feet.

Crystals form in urine from male cats. This can be prevented with good food choices. Passing stones or crystals hurts and can cost you a ton in vet bills if they don’t come out naturally. Keep your cat’s diet low in levels of magnesium. Go over the label carefully. Avoid fish products.

TIP! Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. Cats can travel far, and a tag will help you find the cat easier if they get lost.

Find cat medicine online if you want to get discounts. Naturally, some stuff won’t be available online. But, if you’re having to buy pet medication regularly, you will be able to save up to half the price if you buy online.

When your cat is riding with you in your car, ensure you keep their ears in mind. You may think it’s a good idea to listen to loud music on your stereo, but cats generally don’t enjoy this. To keep your cat calm and collected over the course of your trip, keep the stereo low – or perhaps off entirely.

There needs to be set boundaries with your children and a new kitty. Make sure your kids know where the cat can be. If your have an indoor-only cat, be sure the kids understand that the cat is not to go outside. By getting these rules into place before having a cat, you’ll be sure that your children can understand.

TIP! Put the litter box in an ideal location. Don’t put it in a busy area, and keep it away from your cat’s food.

If your thinking about allowing your cat to go outside, you may want to reconsider. This can be very unsafe for your cat. You cat might pick up pests or fleas. Cats can also be hunted by other animals, stolen or hit by passing vehicles. If you still insist your cat be able to go outside, then do so in the fenced backyard.

Unlike most humans, cats love heights. A cat will only be happy if you give it a safe spot to look over everything. If a cat tree is not your style, clear off a sturdy shelf that he can jump up on. Adding a small pillow or blanket to the spot for napping will be very much appreciated too.

Litter Box

TIP! Cats can spend hours keeping themselves and their fur clean. However, if it has a lot of hair, hairballs can occur.

Don’t think that you can teach a cat to use its litter box. This is a natural instinct that cannot be taught. Don’t try to force them into the litter box by rubbing their paws or face in it.

Use canned food for your cat. Dry food is less expensive, but canned food provides more benefits. Canned foods are also richer in fat, proteins and will help hydrate your cat. As your cat ages, canned food is more easily chewed. You should listen to what your vet recommends, though.

Those quality-training tips are perfect for all breeds of cat, regardless of age or location. There are certain common problems that arise when raising a kitten, but some cats will exhibit unique problems. Remember to have plenty of fun and give your cat plenty of love and attention.