Adding a cat to your family can be quite enjoyable. You should not adopt a cat until you are better prepared. But because they are curious creatures, some mishaps will still occur even with planning. However, preparing yourself in advance is best, and it helps you be ready for your new pet.

Kitty claws can be quite destructive to fabric and furnishings. If you have problems with a cat that shreds furniture, invest in a durable scratching post. They can scratch the post instead. This solution might take time to take, but it will help in the end.

TIP! Though things may appear to be fine, you should always schedule regular medical checkups for your feline pet. Not only will a veterinarian give a general physical exam, he or she will also make sure they have necessary vaccinations.

Anytime you travel with a cat, their ears should be monitored. You may be tempted to blast your favorite songs at top volume. Cats, on the other hand, would probably prefer that you didn’t. Therefore, try lowering your music or turning it off in order for your cat to enjoy the trip more.

Cats feel safest in an elevated location. Your cat will appreciate being on top of a cupboard, fridge or anywhere they can surrey their environment. If a cat tower is not ideal, a simple shelf that does not have any breakable items can work. Providing a blanket or bed for your cat is an extra treat for them.

Speak with friends and family when you have difficulty with your cat. Advice from other people can be very beneficial for you. The Internet will allow you to contact many forums and online communities for cat owners. Don’t forget, your vet’s office can also provide sound advice.

TIP! If your cat is female, it is very important that she be spayed when the vet feels she is old enough. It does not matter if you an indoor cat; if she gets out when in heat, you can end up with many kittens.

Don’t try to show your feline how to go in the litter box. This is natural to them and does not need to be taught. While some folks think you should pick up your cat and place their paws against the litter, this can actually be traumatic.

Brush your cat on a regular basis. This will help stimulate blood flow. As an added bonus, it cuts down on loose fur. This avoids the hairball problem, which may lead to choking and a buildup of hair in the stomach.

You cat will not be likely to be a finicky eater if you vary the type of food you are feeding from time to time. Keeping the same kind of food around most of the time makes it to where they only want that specific food.

TIP! Take your cat to the vet every year. They should go in for a routine check-up at least once a year, possibly more if they need important shots.

Pay attention if your cat suddenly stops using the litter box properly. It may be the sign of an underlying medical issue. A change in where or how a cat urinates can signal a UTI or other health problem. Some cheap antibiotics can resolve potential risks for your cat.

If your pet is expecting kittens, be sure she has a spacious area to give birth in. The birth will take place over the span of several hours. If the time has surpassed six hours and your cat is not finished, take a trip to your vet.

Litter Box

TIP! Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Even a house cat may end up lost outside, no matter how careful you are.

If you’re dealing with a cat that won’t use the litter box, you should place it somewhere else. A cat will be more inclined to use the litter box if it is placed in a quiet and safe area in your home. Try rooms that are less used, such as a basement or utility room.

Your cat will thank you if you avoid phenol in your cleaning products. This chemical is often in Lysol and certain other regular household cleaners. Not only do cats intensely dislike the smell, the chemical can also cause liver damaged if they are exposed to it for a lengthy time.

Cats have a great sense of smell, which helps them easily grasp changes to their environment. This can sometimes cause difficulties when you buy a new scratching post, cat bed or food dish. Don’t fret if you can’t get kitty to use a new item right away. As the item takes assimilates the smell of his home, it will become acceptable to your cat.

Make sure that your cat is not alone if you adopted one. To help avoid boredom, consider bringing another cat into the household.

Feed your cat as much dry food as you can. Kittens need wet food since they have tiny teeth. When adult teeth come in, the harder foods maintain the strength of their teeth. If your kitty is especially finicky, you can try feeding him a mix of dry and wet food.

No matter what cat you have, these tips can work to train them. There are raising concepts that are shared among cats, but there can still be some variation. A newly adopted kitten should be a fun experience, and make sure that is foremost in your mind!