Cats are really mysterious. They seem to be able to get by without you, but they tend to like to be around you at times too. They may also engage in erratic behavior. You should keep reading to learn how you can properly care for your beloved pet.

Check-ups are an absolute must for any pet cat. Your vet can give you an idea of your cat’s overall health, in addition to administering any shots it may need. Try using the same vet during your cat’s life. This is because this person will know your cat and the history of the animal.

TIP! Check out the shelter when adopting a cat. Shelters around the country are overflowing, and the cats there need more humans to help.

If your cat is an outdoor cat, then you should ensure it wears a tag collar. Cats can travel far, and a tag will help you find the cat easier if they get lost. The tag should have at least the pet’s name and the number where you can be reached.

Prevent your cat from chewing on electrical cords by spraying bitter apple on them. If the cat likes to chew on cords, its best to cover them as best you can. Any loose cords should be bundled up and placed in things like paper towel rolls. If you have rarely used electronics, put them up when you aren’t using them.

It is a good idea to microchip your cat. One day, your indoor cat might leave through an open door or get outside through an open window. Collars or tags can identify your cat, but cats can wiggle out of those, and they are also at risk of getting hung up on something. A microchip will hold the contact information to reach you and it’s only about as big as a piece of rice. All shelters and vets have scanners to ensure your cat gets home safely.

TIP! It is always important to take your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups. Cats need vaccinations to keep them healthy, and your vet can keep an eye out for any other health issues.

Being nocturnal is quite normal for cats. This means that they will usually be quite active at night. If your cat’s activities are keeping you awake at night, try keeping your bedroom door shut. They should stay away from you at night and then they will not be able to jump on your feet.

Create a little tablecloth for your cat. Some cats prefer removing their food from the bowl and eating it on the side. Sometimes this will make the area around the bowl messy, and you’ll have to clean it. A simpler way to do this is by getting a place-mat and placing it under their bowl. You can also cut some fabric to make a tablecloth that can be lifted, washed, or shaken over a trash can.

If you offer a variety of foods to your cat, it will be less picky about what it eats. If they start eating just one type of food without variation, they are sure to grow finicky.

Scratching Post

If the cats scratching post is looking tired and worn out, never throw it away. It may not look as nice, but cats love a scratching post with some wear and tear. If you throw it away too soon, that cat may look to your furniture for some clawing while it slowly breaks in a new scratching post.

You need to buy some quality food for your cat. You should check the ingredients and make sure the food you give your cat includes a healthy source of protein, such as chicken, fish or beef. Any foods with non-protein sources, such as corn, should be avoided. Because cats are carnivores, their diet need only consist of a good source of protein.

Drinking Fountain

Purchase a drinking fountain for your cat. Your cat will prefer drinking from running water since this is a natural behavior. Cats prefer to drink water that is streaming. Cats will often drink from a running sink and actually prefer it over the water in their bowl. A drinking fountain is a more environmentally-friendly way to allow them to drink naturally.

Cats can be a strange and mercurial breed, but they are most definitely good companions if you get close to them. Use the advice you have just read to give your cat the care it deserves. When you know how to take care of your cat, you’ll both be happier.