A lot of new cat owners are not sure about what they should expect. Pets are great, but adopting one on the spur of the moment, without any preparation, is a bad idea. Even well-educated cat owners are often faced with unexpected challenges. A great idea for you is to read the suggestions here and add a few more tidbits to your list of expectations.

Make sure your cat is always well groomed. A cat’s fur must be brushed or combed on a regular basis. Doing it constantly can help you keep their coats clean. Also, this can eliminate the constant shedding that you will deal with. A well-groomed feline looks great on their own, but also helps keep a home well-groomed too.

TIP! Take your cat to the vet every year. A yearly visit for a regular check-up is important, with more frequent visits for shots as required.

If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. Heat a fabric covered heating pad in the microwave for a couple of minutes, making sure that is not too hot to the touch. Wrap this in a towel that’s old and then place it under the bed the cat sleeps on. This should be changed a few times a day to maximize comfort.

If you own a female cat, you should have her spayed when she is old enough. It is best to spay your cat, even if you want to keep it as an indoor pet. The best method of preventing your cat from pregnancy is to get her spayed.

If your cat is outdoors, it needs to have a tagged collar. Cats can get lost, and they need a tag to be found. Have your phone number engraved on the tag.

TIP! Spray bitter apple on electrical cords. Keep your cords covered if you feel like your cat is hellbent on chewing them.

Spray electrical cords with some bitter apple to prevent cats from getting electrocuted. If your cat still insists on chewing your cords, try to cover as many of them as possible. You can hide away any cords inside the rolls that come inside paper towels. Electronic items with thin, tempting cords should always be put away when not in use.

Your cat probably spends a lot of time grooming himself to perfection. When your cat’s coat is long, it can result in hairballs. There are special foods that can ease this issue. Certain kinds of cat food are made to decrease hairballs. As a result, you and your cat will be happier.

Cats are generally great with kids, though small kids may be too rough. Make sure your kids understand how cats should be handled. Demonstrate the appropriate way to pick the cat up and how to play with them. Cats have weaker bones than dogs do, and must be treated accordingly.

TIP! Cats are often nocturnal creatures. It is likely that they will want to play while you are sleeping.

You should think before allowing your cat to go outside. Going outdoors isn’t very safe for a domesticated cat. You cat can get fleas and contract diseases. Your cat might be injured by people, other animals and even vehicles on the road. If you must let your cat outside, do so in a very small area of your backyard or lawn.

Cats may make a small mess outside their litter box. It might be happening because you aren’t caring for the box good enough. Punishing your cat will just make them afraid of you later on.

Although you might find its appearance unappealing, don’t toss a scratching post when it’s getting particular worn and frazzled. Cats typically like older posts compared to newer posts. Removing the post could cause your cat to look for something else scratch, possibly damaging your furniture.

TIP! You should be sure to place your pet’s litter box in a good location. Don’t put it where the cat can’t reach it or near their food.

Feed your cat high-quality cat food. Ensure that the food your cat eats is very high in protein. Steer clear of food made primarily of corn and fillers. Cats are carnivores so it is important for them to get enough animal protein in their diet.

Buy your cat a fountain it can drink from. In nature, a cat prefers to drink from running streams. House cats prefer this as well. Cats respond well to this stream of water. You could even consider turning on your sink a few times a day to let your cat drink from the faucet. Installing a drinking fountain for your cat is a more eco-friendly way to provide it with some running water.

Play is an important part of a cat’s life. Many animals like to play, and that includes humans and cats. Even a mature cat that isn’t as spry anymore it still loves to play around. Play with your cat, and you’ll both have fun.

TIP! Many times, cat meds can be purchased on the internet for less than they’d cost if you got them from your vet. In an emergency, this won’t be much help, of course.

Keeping vaccinations up-to-date is the way to make sure your cat lives longer and more healthy. Stick to regular check-ups. Your cat needs these periodic checks and particular immunizations in order to stay healthy. You need to stay up to date with immunization and booster shots to improve the health of your cat.

Litter Box

Take notice if and when your cat ever stops conducting their business in their litter box. There are many health conditions that can cause your cat to use the restroom in places other than their own litter box. Infections and problems with the kidneys and bladder may be the culprit. If your cat stops using the litter box suddenly, get him to a vet for a visit.

TIP! Unlike most humans, cats love heights. For very happy cats, give them a safe place where they can look around at their surroundings.

Do not let a declawed cat outside. The cat will have difficulty playing with other animals and may get hurt. Indoor cats are the only ones that you should declaw. Even in the case of indoor cats, you should only declaw the front claws. The back claws are left because these won’t scratch your furniture or floors.

These training tips are great for any type of cat, irrespective of breed or age. You have learned basic information that makes raising a cat much easier. Remember though, everyone’s cat and circumstances are different requiring certain adjustments. Remember to enjoy your new kitten because that’s the most important part of the process.