Cats are very fascinating, and they also are great pets. If you own a cat, you must learn as much as possible about caring for your pet so that it can lead a long and happy life. You can use the great advice in this article to begin learning all you need to know.

Keep your drape cords away from your 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 may hurt them or possibly cause death. All drape cords should be fastened and kept away from any harm that might come to the cats.

TIP! Check with your shelter before you purchase a cat. Many shelters have more cats than they can handle and the fees associated with adoption take care of vet visits.

Your cat needs to be groomed properly. Cats must be brushed and groomed frequently. Doing it constantly can help you keep their coats clean. It will also cut down on shedding and hairballs. Keeping a cat well groomed basically helps keep them looking their best, along with your home.

It is always important to take your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups. Your cat should have regular well visits, as well as all the recommended vaccinations for his age. Try to stay with the same veterinarian throughout your pet’s life. This person will be more knowledgeable on your cat’s history.

Avoid using dog products on cats. Products designed for dogs or other animals could cause a negative reaction from your cat. Be very careful with the flea products you use. Your cat can die if you use a dog flea product on it. Your cat needs to be away from the dog after your dog has received a flea treatment.

TIP! You need to take your pet to the vet on a regular basis. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up.

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. The tag should contain the pet’s name, your phone number and your name as well.

Unlike most humans, cats love heights. Providing a safe environment for your cat is key to its happiness. If a cat tree is not in your future, providing a stable shelving unit with no small items on it will do very well. Adding a small pillow or blanket to the spot for napping will be very much appreciated too.

Make sure that you do not instruct your cat on using the litter box. Cats instinctively understand what to do and teaching is not required. Don’t force your cat into the box or you will traumatize them.

TIP! Make sure your cat has a collar and tag if outside. This way, if your cat gets lost and is found by a stranger, that person will know how to contact you.

Acclimate your cat to a cat carrier. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. They need positive reinforcement. Put a nice blanket inside the carrier then leave it where the cat is most often. The cat will enter it on its own. Then, you will have no problem using the carrier.

High quality cat food is important to your cat. Carefully look over ingredients, and be sure that a quality protein source like chicken, fish, or beef is at the beginning of the list. Try omitting non-protein based foods such as corn from your regular diet. Cats are carnivores, and they need a good amount of protein in their diet.

You should install a small drinking fountain for your cat. Cats who are in the wild prefer to drink from running water, and this holds true for domestic cats, as well. Cat usually respond well to streams. Actually, you will see many cats prefer running tap water from the sink instead of the water bowl. A fountain keeps the water moving without letting any go to waste.

TIP! Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. You need to get a scratching post or a cat tower to prevent your cat from ruining your furniture.

Feed canned food to your cat. Although dry food is usually less expensive, canned food is better for your cat. Canned food provides more water content for your cat as well as more fat and protein. This food is easier to chew for old cat. Talk to your vet, but canned food is generally superior for your cat.

Cats are very popular as pets in nearly every corner of the globe. But they should be treated as the special species they are. They behave differently and have different nutritional needs. Internalize the tips you have read here to be the best cat owner possible. You will enjoy a longer, fuller relationship with your small friend.