Do you love cats and have one of your own? If so, then you understand just how precious it is. A cat like any pet really needs care and love. Luckily, you can provide everything your cat will need. This article will show you some smart ways you can take better care of your feline friend.

Check out the shelter when adopting a cat. Shelters are filled with beautiful cats, and the fee for adoption will basically cover the needed vet care. Besides, adopting a cat from an animal shelter means you are saving this cat’s life.

TIP! Make sure your cat is regularly visiting the vet for checkups. The vet will be able to provide your cat with needed vaccinations and any medications it requires.

Cats enjoy getting into small spaces. If you keep a collar on your pet, getting stuck in one of these spaces can be very dangerous. A breakaway collar let’s go if pulled on tightly. This can keep your cat alive.

Flea Products

Never use a product on your cat that is intended for dogs. Cats usually react negatively to items made especially for dogs. Flea products especially. Using dog flea products on your cat can kill them. Once you use flea prevention products on your dog, it should be kept separately from the cat for hours.

TIP! Your home likely has no small spaces a curious cat won’t want to investigate. If they have to wear a collar then there may be a risk because your cat could end up getting stuck.

Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Even an indoor cat could someday jump through an open window. Tags and collars are great, but they don’t always stay on your cat. They can also be a risk, should they get snagged on something. Your important information can all fit nicely on a rice grain sized microchip. Every shelter and most veterinarian offices have microchip scanners that can read the chips, and best of all, they chips can’t be lost.

You might find that your cat sleeps all day and wants to be active at night. In other words, they’ll be up and about late into the night. If your cats keep you up late at night, you should close the bedroom door. It also protects your toes from those crafty midnight pounces.

Acclimate your cat to a cat carrier. Cats never respond to punishment the way that dogs do. They prefer encouragement instead. Inside the carrier, put a favorite toy and blanket. Leave it open in an area the cat will see. Over time, the cat will feel comfortable and go inside the carrier. Let it happen naturally or with only mild coaxing. Do not get angry. Transporting the carrier with your cat inside makes your next trip out much easier.

TIP! A heated tile for underneath your cat’s bed can provide real comfort. Just get a tile and heat it up in the oven for a while to place under the cat’s bed.

Play is an important part of a cat’s life. In fact, play is a common activity for all mammals, including people and cats, no matter their age. An aging cat may not have as much energy as a kitten, however it will still enjoy a little light playtime. Make an effort to have playtime with your cat regularly.

Is there cat hair everywhere? Cats are known for shedding, so good grooming habits are a must. If your cat sheds a lot, you need to brush it more often. Doing this will also make sure they don’t get a matted or tangled coat.

If you got a cat during a period of joblessness and are now re-entering the workforce, you should watch out for possible attachment issues. It can be a good idea to get a companion cat to keep yours company when you are at work.

TIP! Cats can tend to be more nocturnal than not. This means that they will be the most active at night time.

It’s important to only feed your cat the amount of food that it should have to ensure a healthy life. Overeating can cause your cat to become obese and susceptible to health problems. Watch your cat’s portions and make sure that you feed him a well-balanced diet.

You can deter cat scratching with something as simple as tape. This can deter your cat from scratching the upholstery. Many pet shops sell this sort of tape. You should also provide your cat with a scratching post or a tower it can use instead of your furniture.

If you worry about the cat you have getting fleas, rabies, or any kind of fungus then the cat shouldn’t go outside. While it is possible for a home bound cat to catch some of these diseases, the chances are increasingly significantly when a cat spends a good amount of time outdoors.

TIP! Put your cats’ litter box where it is most acceptable to him. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals.

Your cat is a member of your family and his well-being is important to you. Since you’ve read the advice above, you should have lots of ideas on how you can better care for your pet. Use these ideas to make sure your cat remains happy and healthy. If you love your kitty, he will certainly love you in return.