Cats are as much a part of the family as anyone else. That’s why you need to do what you can to keep them safe from harmful things like fleas and parasites. These organisms can be detrimental to your cat’s health. You can learn how to keep your cat safe from them in this article.

Shop at your local pet shelter for your next cat. Shelters have tons of great cats and their adoption fee will generally cover necessary vet care. Rescuing a cat can end up making a big difference in both of your lives.

Flea Products

Avoid using dog products on cats. Cats will have a reaction that’s negative towards a product made for dogs. This particularly applies to flea products. When used on your cat, flea products for dogs can be lethal. If you treat your dog for fleas, make sure you keep the cat away for several hours following the application.

It can be hard to prevent your cat from jumping on the counter. One thing they like about it is they enjoy being high up. Making a place high-up for your cat can solve this issue. Having a cat tower near your kitchen will keep them off your counters.

TIP! Keep your cat groomed. A cat’s fur must be brushed or combed on a regular basis.

Have your cat chipped so you can find him if he runs away. Even an indoor cat may find a way out of your home. A tagged collar might help get kitty home, but it can just as easily come off if snagged on a branch. Microchips are as tiny as a piece of rice and will tell people where the cat belongs. The majority of veterinarians possess scanners that can read your chips. Because these chips are placed underneath your cat’s skin, they won’t get lost.

When it comes to litter boxes, placement is everything. A cat’s litter box should be in a quiet spot in the house, away from where your cat eats. Also, minimize the smell by making sure it is a well ventilated area. Both you and your pet will appreciate that.

Receiving plenty of positive, loving attention is important for your cat. Cats need just as much companionship as they give out. Your cat needs to socialize and get plenty of attention from everyone in your family. They probably would like to feel as though they are a wanted part of the family.

TIP! If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. Use a terra cotta tile to help relieve your cat’s aches and pains; put it in the oven on low heat – 200 degrees or so – for 15 minutes.

Try as hard as you can to understand the reason your cat meows at you. After you have lived with your cat for a while, you will come to know what she wants by her meow. Possibilities include that she is hungry or wants to be let outside. Make sure you are paying attention in order to better understand your cat.

Do you own both a dog and a cat? Dogs love to eat cat food! For this reason, you need to place your cat’s bowl in an area that is to high for a dog to reach. This also makes sure that the two don’t fight over water.

Always watch a kitten around small kids. Children under 5 years of age should not be alone with the pet. They simply lack the maturity to comprehend the harm they can potentially do to kittens. Once the child grows up a little, he might be more able to handle the kitten.

TIP! Your home furnishings can fall victim to your cat’s sharp claws. Buy a scratching post if you need to protect the furniture in your home.

If you are bringing home a new cat, make sure to give him time to adjust to your current cat. It usually takes about three weeks. In the early days, you may see a lot of posturing from the cats including hissing and swatting at each other. Sooner or later, they’ll tolerate and even begin to love each other.

A long-haired cat comes with a great deal of extra care. The hair looks good, except when it’s all over your furniture. Don’t adopt a cat with long fur unless you’re sure you can handle the extra cleaning. Hairballs are something that you will often deal with if you own a fluffy cat.

Parasites can be a problem for most cats, and that includes your cat, too. Parasites will remain with your cat until taken care of. You can take measures to get rid of or even prevent parasites. Your cat is sure to thank you.