Lots of people have difficulties along the way after they adopt a cat. You need to prepare when getting a pet so you avoid mistakes. However, even with preparation, you can’t possibly hope to foresee every problem that these cute felines will cause. But to lessen the issues early on, use the advice shared here!

Any drape cords should be hidden so the cat cannot grab hold of them. The cats will start playing with the cords and they can easily wrap around their necks. It may actually cause them some serious harm. Therefore, ensure that drape cords are pinned away from your cat’s reach.

TIP! Ensure that you groom your cat regularly and properly. Regular combing and brushing is usually all that is required.

Your cat needs to be groomed properly. Just like dogs, cats require regular brushing and de-tangling. If you do this often, their coat will stay clean. In addition, it helps decrease shedding, which results in less hairballs. Regularly grooming your cat will help keep it and your home looking great.

Be sure you have a vet that your cat sees regularly so it stays healthy. Cats should go to a vet at least once each year for a check up, and more frequently for required shots. When the cat seems to be acting abnormally, take it to the vet immediately.

A tagged collar is essential if you let your cat outside regularly. Cats can roam far, so a tag will ensure you find them quickly when they’re lost. Even if the tag just has your phone number, it can be the difference between your pet coming home and being lost forever.

TIP! Prevent your cat from getting zapped by coating exposed wires with bitter apple. If your cat is especially intent on chewing cords, keep them covered as much as possible.

Try to avoid your cat from becoming bored each day. They need exercise and they get it through play. Unfortunately, lots of people who own cats neglect this. Cats who become bored often have issues that can affect them in a big way. Some of these issues are obesity due to eating out of boredom, OCD issues, fighting with other pets and depression. Give them plenty of space to roam and provide them with toys to give them some exercise. If your cats are kept inside, set up a carpet lined scratching pad or post. There are many climbing structures that can be purchased or made for cats who enjoy heights.

If you take your cat with you when you travel, be mindful of their ears. You may love loud music, bit it might be bothering your cat. Try turning down your tunes or keeping it off to make your cat’s trip better.

When you get a cat for your kids, make sure your kids know the rules in advance. Let your kids know which rooms your cat is allowed in. Make sure that your children know if the cat is strictly an indoor cat. Setting the rules in advance will ensure your children understand.

TIP! It can be hard to make your cat stay off the counter. Cats have a natural predilection for staking out a nice elevated place where they have a good view of their surroundings.

Speak to others about your cat problems. It is possible to work out the problem yourself, but help from others can be invaluable. There are many online cat forums that will help you get questions answered. You could also try asking your vet.

Treat your cat to a good quality cat food. Always look at the ingredients first. You want to see either fish, chicken or beef noted. Avoid brands that use non-meat fillers like corn. Cats in the wild are meat eaters, and domestic cats need meat to ensure optimum health.

Ensure that your cat wears a collar and identification tags at all times. Even if it’s an indoor cat, this is important. You know how curious cats are, and any open door can mean the cat disappears. Include your contact number along with the name of your veterinarian. This precaution is especially important when your cat has an existing medical condition.

TIP! Think about having a microchip inserted in your cat. Your pet may be an indoor cat, but that doesn’t mean it’ll never dash through your door or slide outside via an open window.

Anytime you get a new pet, you must introduce them to your cat slowly to help to avoid problems and let the cat get used to it. Keep them separated for at least two weeks, but let them sniff at each other under a closed door. The cats might hiss, swat and hide from each other at first. Give them a bit more time to begin to get used to each other face to face, too.

Make sure your cat gets plenty of opportunities to play. All mammals love to play. Kitties who are senior citizens may not be super energetic, but they still enjoy playing. Take time to have fun with your cat.

Litter Box

TIP! Grooming is something that most cats do all the time. When your cat has long hair, this can cause hairballs.

Make sure you put your catbox in the optimal location. You may really want to hide that box from everyday life. The thing to remember is that your cat must have easy access to the box. You want your cat to feel comfortable using their litter box. A litter box located in the basement should be placed on a thick mat or rug.

These training tips are great for any type of cat, irrespective of breed or age. They are basic ideas relating to raising small cats in all sorts of circumstances. A newly adopted kitten should be a fun experience, and make sure that is foremost in your mind!