There is a quote by a famous author that broke down how important cats are. Eliot called cats creatures that households depend upon, and that is somewhat true. A cat that is friendly and happy boosts any family. However, cats can at times be difficult to have around. Have a better time living with your cat through these tips.

Cat Bed

TIP! If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. There are so many great cats at shelters.

Heated tiles are great to put under a cat bed, especially for the comfort of aging felines. A terra cotta tile heated in your oven on about 200 degrees and for 15 minutes will do. Wrap it tightly in a towel and place it under the cat bed. If you want, change it now and then so the warmth continues.

You should take your cat to the vet on a regular basis to maintain optimum health. They need a check-up and possibly vaccinations. If there are more pressing health problems, take your cat to the vet right away.

If your cat is outdoors, it needs to have a tagged collar. Tags can save you a lot of trouble if your cat gets lost. At the very least, you should include your contact info and the name of your cat on the tag.

TIP! Groom your cat. Just like dogs, cats require regular brushing and de-tangling.

Spray bitter apple on electrical cords to keep cats away from them. Cords should be covered, especially if your cat tends to chew on them. You can bundle loose cords into paper towel rolls that are old. All thin cords should be put up when you’re not using them.

Make sure your cat is not too bored. Cats need play and exercise. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. Provide your cats with the toys and space it needs. If you have an indoor cat, provide a kitty gym for them to climb on or a scratching post.

Your cat needs love and attention. Cats need companionship as much as we do. Like many people, cats need to socialize with people so that they feel like they are an important part of their family’s lives. This will increase the love that surrounds the family.

TIP! If your cat goes outside, it is important to have a collar with a tag. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost.

Anytime you travel with a cat, their ears should be monitored. Cats tend to prefer gentle sounds during the day. Therefore, keep your music or other sounds at an acceptable level.

Cats love to be high up. To keep your cat happy, offer him a spot of his own up high where he can survey his kingdom. If you can’t afford a cat tree, give the cat an empty shelf of his own. For an extra treat, place a blanket or small bed up there too.

Speak with friends and family when you have difficulty with your cat. It can really help to get advice from fellow cat owners. There are many online cat forums that you can visit and ask some questions. If necessary, you may need to call your veterinarian.

TIP! Normally cats are nocturnal animals. This means that they’re going to be running around more when it gets dark.

Be sure to carrier train your cat. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Positive reinforcement is a better training tool for cats. Placing some of your cats favorite items in the carrier can really help. Your cat will want to inspect the carrier and probably enjoy hiding inside. As the cat becomes used to being in the carrier, it will become easier to transport them in it.

Feed canned food to your cat. While dry food is less costly, the canned food has added benefits. They have more water, protein and fat too. For older feline’s, it’s also quite a lot easier to chew. You should listen to what your vet recommends, though.

It isn’t always easy being a cat owner, but it’s definitely rewarding. Whether you have a cat that’s hyper or one that sleeps too much, you can use the tips above to help you take better care of your cat. With any luck, you will hear more purrs and less meows.