The joys of owning a cat are endless. However, it should be noted that owning cat also requires a lot of hard work. Cat owners need to know of the responsibilities that come with having a feline. Thankfully, this piece will explain some of these responsibilities. Read on for much enlightenment.

Be sure you have a vet that your cat sees regularly so it stays healthy. Your cat should have a health check yearly, but should go in more if your cat needs shots. If there are more pressing health problems, take your cat to the vet right away.

TIP! If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. Bake a one-foot tile made from terra cotta in the oven at 200 degrees F for around 15 to 20 minutes.

Cats can really scratch up your home. A kitty tower can really save your furniture. It is much better if your cat uses his claws on that, rather than your furniture. It might take time, but eventually you will see that the damage to your furniture is diminished.

It can be tricky to keep a cat off the kitchen counters. Cats have a natural predilection for staking out a nice elevated place where they have a good view of their surroundings. One good way to beat this problem is by giving your kitty some safe, high perches throughout the house. Your cat will not go on your counters if there’s a cat tower close to the kitchen.

Don’t let your cat get frequently bored. Cats require plenty of exercise. Sadly, this is overlooked by many cat owners. Boredom can beget illness. Give them toys and things to do. Be sure your cat has something they can climb and something they can scratch if they stay inside.

TIP! Taking your cat to the vet is part of being a responsible pet owner. A routine check-up should happen annually, and more often if necessary shots are due.

If you’re traveling with your cat, take care to remember their ears. You may love belting out your favorite tunes as you drive on the freeway, but your cat probably enjoys softer sounds. Turn down the music and let the cat rest.

Cats can be great pets for children, but some younger children may be a bit too rough with cats. Make sure that you teach your children the proper way to handle a kitten or cat. Teach them about appropriate activities and how to gentle pick up the cat. Cats should be handled more gently since their bones are more fragile than those of dogs.

Do all you can to figure out what’s causing your cat to meow. After some time, you’ll understand why your cat purs or meows based on what she wants. The cat might want something to eat, or just to go outside. Look for the cues and you’ll be much more in tune with your pet.

TIP! Do not use dog products on your cat. Cats are not the same as dogs, and products meant for dogs can make cats very ill.

Cats enjoy being in high places. Make sure your cat has a safe place to play. If you’d rather not invest in a cat tree, simply use a large shelf or bookcase without any breakable items. Additionally, you can place a bed or blanket in this space.

You cat needs to get used to being in a carrier. Cats just don’t respond like dogs do when it comes to punishment. They like responding to encouragement better. You should place a toy or a blanket inside the carrier and place it in an area where it will be noticed by your cat. Eventually, the cat will go into the carrier naturally and feel comfortable. Once this is achieved, you can transport your cat inside the carrier much easier.

As you can now see, cats can bring you much joy. A cat is a serious responsibility as well, though, and you should do your best to take care of its needs. Use the information that has been given to you if you plan on having a cat as a pet.