There’s no denying that pet cats are inquisitive, interesting little creatures. Your cat may seem to be very independent, but keep in mind that she needs you. This may seem confusing at times, but a purring cat sitting on your lap is one of the best things you can experience. These ideas can help with your cat friend.

Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. If the cat becomes caught in a loop, they could choke to death. This could hurt or kill them. Make sure that the cords are completely out of sight.

TIP! Don’t let your cats play with drape cords. If your cat plays with looped drape cords, they could get caught around its neck, which presents a suffocation hazard.

If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters have lots of great cats available, and your adoption fee often covers key veterinary services. Adopting your cat through a shelter means you are helping to control the cat population and saving a life at the same time.

Small places are spots cats love to get into. If your cat is such a curious one, wearing a collar is a safety risk, as your feline might get stuck because of it while exploring. Collars designed to release when sufficient force is applied (“breakaway” collars) are a great idea. Your cat can preserve a few of his nine lives with this.

A cat generally spends quite a bit of time grooming itself. Hairballs are more common in long-haired cats. There are special foods that can ease this issue. Certain cat foods are made just for decreasing hairballs, benefiting both your cat and yourself.

TIP! When looking for a new cat for your home, contact a local animal shelter. Shelters have tons of great cats and their adoption fee will generally cover necessary vet care.

Crystals in the urine, an issue many male cats have, can be avoided with the proper food. These are very painful and expensive to treat. To stop this from happening, make sure your cat’s food doesn’t have much magnesium in it. The best way to find out is to read the label. Products that contain fish are normally much higher in magnesium over ones containing poultry.

When you get a kitten for kids, you have to set up a few rules first. Make sure your children are aware of rooms that are open to your cat. If you plan to raise an indoor cat, let your children know that the cat cannot go outside. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.

Reconsider outside time for your cat. The outside world is very dangerous for cats. Fleas can infest your cat, or something worse can happen. They might get injured by some other animals, vehicles, or people. If the cat must go outside, set aside a small part of the backyard or front lawn as a place where they can go.

TIP! You should get your cat a tagged collar, even if it is not legally required. The collar and tag will make it easier to find the cat if it gets lost.

Watch kittens around kids. Younger children, especially under 5, cannot be left alone with your cat. Kids of this age aren’t old enough to know how dangerous a cat can be. As a kid ages, they can show maturity with handling a little pet.

Feed your cat several different kinds of food if you want to the lower the chances of them becoming finicky. If your cat only eats one brand of cat food from the beginning, he will probably not like any other brand.

Purchase high quality food for your cat. Always look at the ingredients first. You want to see either fish, chicken or beef noted. Some foods contain a lot of fillers like corn products, don’t buy those. Because cats are carnivores, their diet need only consist of a good source of protein.

TIP! Spraying the electrical cords in your home with a bitter apple solution helps keep the cats from chewing on them. Cords should be covered, especially if your cat tends to chew on them.

If you want to buy a second cat, prepare for some time where the cats will be familiarizing themselves with each other. They may swat at each other or hiss; that’s nothing to be concerned about. After the initial period though, they should start to settle and begin to get along like old friends.

If your cat or kitten begins to urinate frequently or in places other than his litter box, a trip to the vet may be in order. It could be an indication of a serious health problem. Some cheap antibiotics can get rid of some dangerous illnesses.

A cat’s life isn’t complete without play. Play is necessary for all mammals no matter the age or species. Even older cats love a little play, just not as rough. Enjoy some playtime with your cat.

TIP! When your cat is riding with you in your car, ensure you keep their ears in mind. They don’t want to hear you singing at the top of your lungs.

Never allow your cat to be exposed to phenol chemicals. This is something that’s often in Pine-sol, Lysol, and other popular cleaners. The smell offends cats, and it can lead to prolonged illnesses.

Cats aren’t simple creatures, but they are great friends once you get to know them. Let the suggestions in this article help you to make their lives more comfortable. If you know how to care for them, cats are unique, enjoyable pets.