When it comes to pets, there is no animal like a cat. Cats are extremely smart and independent; however, they can also be very loving, which makes them an ideal pet. Caring for a cat takes a concentrated effort. Read on to learn more cat tips and to use them to make your cat healthy and happy.

Cat claws are one of the worst enemies of your home and furniture. If your beloved feline friend is shredding and damaging parts of your home, try investing in a cat tower or a scratching post. Redirect your cat to the scratching post when they start to go after your furniture. Catnip can be put in the posts or on the tower to help train the cat to use it. It doesn’t happen overnight but with some patience, you should be able to save your house from the claws.

TIP! Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. If the cat becomes caught in a loop, they could choke to death.

It can be tough to keep cats off the countertops. Cats naturally love heights so they can easily see everyone and everything. Give them an alternative. Keep your cats off the kitchen counter by placing their towers near the kitchen or even in it.

Litter Box

Your kitty’s litter box requires strategic placement. The litter box should not be kept in an area with a lot of traffic. In addition, it does not need to be near the cat’s food. Also, minimize the smell by making sure it is a well ventilated area. Your cat and you will appreciate it.

TIP! Ensure your cat remains groomed. Cats must be brushed and groomed frequently.

You may be able to find a better deal on your cat’s prescription online instead of purchasing them from your veterinarian. Sometimes you might not have time to wait for an online order to arrive however, such as if your cat needs an immediate antibiotic or emergency treatment. The savings can amount to almost 50 percent on regularly prescribed medications.

Don’t leave a kitten with small kids. Younger children, especially under 5, cannot be left alone with your cat. They simply lack the maturity to comprehend the harm they can potentially do to kittens. As children get older, decide when they show the maturity to handle a small pet.

Cats feel safest in an elevated location. Your cat will appreciate being on top of a cupboard, fridge or anywhere they can surrey their environment. If you don’t want a large cat tree in your home, a sturdy shelf cleared of breakables will work in a pinch. Additionally, you can place a bed or blanket in this space.

TIP! If your cat is female, you need to get it spayed at the proper age. You may keep your cat inside, but she could still slip outside and become pregnant.

When something seems amiss with your feline friend, speak with other cat owners. You won’t have the knowledge to handle every cat issue properly, so take advantage of the experiences of others. There are many online forums that discuss cats. Most vets will also be happy to help you with some advice.

Don’t think that you can teach a cat to use its litter box. This is the sort of thing which flows naturally. While some folks think you should pick up your cat and place their paws against the litter, this can actually be traumatic.

Regularly brush your cat’s hair. This keeps the fur well oiled and the skin healthy. Also, it helps manage loose hair. This keeps hairballs at bay, which may cause choking and build up inside their stomach from self-grooming.

TIP! You should not use products designed for other animals. If you try to use products meant for dogs, it can make your cat sick, or even kill him.

If your cats create messes near the litter box, don’t punish them. Improper box care on your part causes the mess, not the cat. Punishments given to the cat will just make him or her less willing to be around its owner going forward.

The unique and intelligent cat makes a great pet if you educate yourself about how to care for it. You should go over this article and learn more about how you can take care of your pet. Put the tips into practice today, then watch your feline companions thrive and grow in a healthy way.