Taking care of a cat is complex. From the moment they prance into your house, cats can be indecipherable. However, with the right knowledge, you can easily take proper care of them and ensure their happiness. The below article contains excellent advice on how to properly care for your cat.

If you’re thinking of getting a cat for a pet, you should look to the local shelter. Many shelters are overcrowded with lovable and adoptable cats. Rescuing a cat can end up making a big difference in both of your lives.

TIP! Cats can get into even the tiniest of spaces. If your cat wears a collar they might get hurt, and stuck.

If your cat is female, you need to get it spayed at the proper age. Even if you have an indoor female cat, if it escapes when it’s in heat it could get you a bunch of kittens you weren’t planning on having. If your cat has been spayed, however, you won’t have to worry about this happening.

Be certain your cat has regular vet visits. Cats should go to a vet at least once each year for a check up, and more frequently for required shots. Make vet appointments immediately if your cat has a medical condition or has become injured.

It can be tricky to keep a cat off the kitchen counters. After all, cats prefer to stay high so that they can keep an eye out on everything. You can try to combat this problem by designating some high-up places for your cat to hang out. For example, give them a cat tower nearby.

TIP! Your cat can devastate your furniture with its claws. If your cat is ripping up and shredding your home, invest in a kitty tower or scratching post.

Do not allow your cat to stay bored all of the time. Cats require physical activity. Sometimes, cat owners don’t realize this. Bored cats can suffer from depression, extreme compulsive disorders, and other harmful issues that can negatively impact their overall health and well-being. Give them room to play and a large number of toys. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.

Most cats are nocturnal. This means that they will usually be quite active at night. If your cats keep you up late at night, you should close the bedroom door. They should stay away from you at night and then they will not be able to jump on your feet.

If your cat is male, understand that he could develop crystals inside his urine, which can be very painful to him. Therefore, prevent this issue from occurring in the first place by feeding your cat the right type of food. Passing crystals is very painful for your cat, and the vet’s bill will be painful for you. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Read the label on any food you choose. Fish products can have more magnesium when compared to poultry.

TIP! Put the litter box in an ideal location. Place the litter box away from high traffic areas.

Just because your family did it when you were a child, does not mean allowing your cat to go outside is a wise decision. Letting your cat outside greatly increases his risk level. You cat might pick up pests or fleas. Cats can also be hunted by other animals, stolen or hit by passing vehicles. When your cats go outside, keep an eye out to make sure they do not wander too far away.

This article will provide you with useful tips on how to take good care of your pet. Be sure these tips are used in caring for your cats physical and emotional needs. Once your cat is happy, you will be too. Do not hesitate to get help from your veterinarian if you need to.