If you were given the opportunity to rescue an animal, would you take it? Cats in shelters need you. To save a life, consider adopting one of these lovely animals and giving it a loving home. This article will teach you how to care for that new cat once you bring him home.

Keep your drape cords out of your cats reach. Cats love to play with hanging cords and this poses the threat of your cat hurting themselves or becoming entangled. This accident could trap or injure your cat, or even be fatal. Secure your cords so they are out of the way and out of sight.

TIP! Drape cords should be kept distant from cats. Don’t let the cat play with them since they can jump into them or play with them and get them around their neck if they have loops.

If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. A terra cotta tile about a foot square is ideal. You can warm it with a 15-20 minute stop in your oven, set to approximately 200 degrees. Wrap the tile inside an unneeded towel and place it under your kitty’s favorite resting spot. If you want, you can change it for a newly warmed tile a few hours later.

Be sure your cat gets regular checkups at the vet. Cats need routine shots and wellness checks just like people. Cats need to be seen by a vet right away if there are injuries or health problems that don’t go away.

Keep your cat active and entertained to avoid boredom. Cats should have a lot of exercise and playtime. Many owners just don’t have time. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. Give them toys they can play with, play with them yourself, or at the least give them room to exercise. Indoor cats will be happier if you provide them with climbing resources and practical things such as scratching posts.

Litter Box

Pick a good spot for the cat’s litter box. Place the litter box away from high traffic areas. Additionally, the litter box should be placed away from your cat’s food and water. You should also make sure there is ample ventilation to avoid odors. Both you and your pet will appreciate that.

There needs to be set boundaries with your children and a new kitty. Make sure everyone understands which parts of the house the cat is not allowed in. If you want to have an indoor cat, explain to your children that they cannot let it go outside. Establishing these boundaries ahead of time prevents any confusion.

TIP! Cats love to squeeze into tiny spaces. If they have a collar on, this might prove to be a safety risk if they happen to get stuck.

Cats generally will meow for a reason. The more time you spend with your cat, the better you’ll understand what its meows mean. Your cat might need food or might want to go out. You should pay attention to these cues and you will eventually learn to decipher them.

Do you happen to own both a dog and a cat? Dogs take every opportunity they can get to eat the cat’s food. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. This will also prevent squabbles between them.

Cat Owners

TIP! If your cat goes outside, it is important to have a collar with a tag. Cats can travel a long way and this will help you get them back easier if they’re lost.

You should talk to other pet owners if you have an issue with yours. Other cat owners may have had experience with what you’re going through right now. Use the Internet to share tips with other cat owners and ask your questions or talk with your neighbors, friends or veterinarian.

Brush your cat’s coat often. The act of brushing helps the coat become glossy, and it helps stimulate the skin. Brushing will also help to remove loose hair. This helps prevent hairballs, which can lead to choking and other health issues.

Get your cat used to a carrier. Cats just don’t respond like dogs do when it comes to punishment. Encouragement is more likely to get them to respond. Take their favorite blanket and place it within the carrier. Then leave the carrier with the door ajar in a frequented spot. Your cat will want to inspect the carrier and probably enjoy hiding inside. It will be simpler to transport them using the carrier.

TIP! Cats can use their claws to destroy furniture and other parts of the house. If your beloved feline friend is shredding and damaging parts of your home, try investing in a cat tower or a scratching post.

You should feed your cat food out of a can. While dry food is less expensive, canned food is healthier. The moist food gives your cat water, and it usually has more protein and fat in it. Older cats find it easier to eat, too. Speak with the vet, but food in cans tends to be better.

Ensure your cat is collared and wears an identification tag. Even a cat you plan on always staying indoors should have identification. You know how curious cats are, and any open door can mean the cat disappears. Tags should include contact information for you and your vet. This is crucial if your cat requires special medical attention.

Make sure play time is an important part of your cat’s life. Just like playtime is important for other types of pets, the same holds true for your cat, despite whatever their age happens to be. Although older cats won’t be as active as younger cats, they still need a little exercise. Playing with your cat will help you to form happy and cherished memories to look back on.

TIP! It may prove quite a challenge to make your cat stay off counter tops. One thing they like about it is they enjoy being high up.

Is cat hair getting into everything you own? Cats shed quite often, so make sure that you brush them a lot. The more a cat sheds, the moor they should be properly brushed. Brushing can help prevent their fur from matting or tangling.

Adopting a cat is a wonderful thing to do. You’ve given a good home to an animal in need. You’re making a friend for the duration of their life. Take good care of your cat and cherish the time you spend together.