When it comes to owning a great pet, you can’t go wrong with a cat. You can get some helpful tips by reading the following article. Living with a cat is rewarding but does present some responsibilities unique to the cat species. Read on for useful tips.

If you’re thinking of getting a cat for a pet, you should look to the local shelter. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. You really are saving a life and keeping the feline population in check all in one!

TIP! Good grooming is important for cats. Cats should have regular combings.

It’s crucial that your pet gets checkups from your vet regularly. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up. For the most consistent pet care, choose one veterinarian and stick with them. You won’t have to worry that the vet won’t have all of your cat’s medical records.

A tablecloth for the feeding area can be quite useful. Often, a cat will remove food from his bowl to eat on the side. That means you will have to tidy up the food left beside the cat bowl. To simplify your clean up duties, place a ready made placemat under the dish or purchase some inexpensive fabric and use it like a tablecloth.

When you get a kitten for kids, you have to set up a few rules first. Explain where the cat is and isn’t allowed. If your have an indoor-only cat, be sure the kids understand that the cat is not to go outside. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.

TIP! Small places are spots cats love to get into. Cats that wear collars are at risk should they become stuck somewhere cramped.

Why is your cat meowing? If you stay around a cat for a period of time you will figure out what their verbal cues mean. Possibilities include that she is hungry or wants to be let outside. Pay attention to her cues, and you can understand your cat that much more.

Speak with friends and family when you have difficulty with your cat. Although you may feel like you don’t need help, other owners may be able to give you good advice. The Internet has many cat forums where you can ask your questions, or simply speak with your vet.

Purchase a drinking fountain for your cat. Cats like running water in the wild, as well as in the home. A constant stream of water will entice them to stay hydrated. Actually, you will see many cats prefer running tap water from the sink instead of the water bowl. A fountain will allow a cat to drink naturally and is better for the environment.

TIP! Don’t use items on a cat that are meant for a dog. Cats don’t like dog products.

You should feed your cat food out of a can. It sometimes has more benefits over dry. The moist food gives your cat water, and it usually has more protein and fat in it. Older cats find it easier to eat, too. Speak with your vet to determine the proper course of action to take.

Let your cat take its time when you add a new cat to your home. They might have conflict, hide from each other or swat one another. Give them a bit more time to begin to get used to each other face to face, too.

Play is an important part of a cat’s life. All mammals love to play. While older cats have less energy than their younger counterparts, they can still play a little. Take time to have fun with your cat.

TIP! Use bitter apple on your electric cords to keep your kitty away from them. If your cat is especially intent on chewing cords, keep them covered as much as possible.

Use a cat collar that gives name, address, and phone number info. Your indoor pet might even get out if you leave a window open. If this should happen, you will have a better chance of getting your cat back home.

Many foods that are fine for humans are not good to give to your cat. Garlic and onions are popular examples. Your cat can get very sick from eating these foods. Even though everyone knows that cats love milk, this can actually cause a cat to have an upset stomach.

Pet cats should not be allowed to spend time outdoors or away from its home for long periods of time. Indoor kitties typically live longer than the outdoor variety. You should go outside with your cat every day to play and exercise.

TIP! Never let a cat become bored. Cats need to play and get regular exercise.

Don’t ever let your declawed cat outdoors. Your cat cannot defend itself, rendering it helpless against other animals. Indoor cats are the only ones that may be declawed. Only take out the front claws. There is no need to remove the back claws since the cat does not use them when clawing furniture or fabric.

If your cat is spitting up hairballs frequently, and extra grooming does not help, these handy tips may help. Consider mixing cat food with a single teaspoon of pumpkin. Mixing the pumpkin up with water drained from a can of tuna (again, one teaspoon’s worth) may also help. Cat food sometimes has an anti hairball formulation, which includes extra fiber in order to solve this issue.

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. If you want to keep them from getting bored while you are away from home, you should think about getting another cat.

TIP! Do not isolate the litter box in a distant place. Don’t put it close to your cat’s food or in an area that gets too much traffic.

Cats can get sick in some of the same ways you can. Because your pet is a family member, you are around them enough to know when they are not feeling very good. Take your cat to the vet as often as possible. The vet will be able to let you know if it’s something more serious.

When you decide that you want a cat, it is a fantastic decision. Cats are often a comfort and can also aid in stress relief. That said, you must learn how to care for them correctly to live peacefully. Be sure to build a healthy relationship by using the above advice.