In case you are unfamiliar with the word, feral cats are the population of cats that live wondering along the street. Cats are great to have around and millions of people all around the world are enjoying them as pets right now. Keep reading for some excellent advice about taking care of your pet.

Drape cords should be kept distant from cats. Never let your cats play with drape cords, as they could seriously injure themselves. This is an extreme choking hazard and should be prevented at all costs. Therefore, ensure that drape cords are pinned away from your cat’s reach.

TIP! Make frequent checkups with your vet to keep your cat healthy. Understand that cats require vaccinations in order to stay healthy, and the veterinarian needs to regularly check for any health problems.

Groom your cat. You have to make sure your cat gets brushed or combed often. Such practices help keep cats’ coats clean. It also reduces their shedding and hairballs. Grooming a cat properly will improve the appearance of your home and cat.

Taking your cat in for regular check-ups at the veterinarian’s office is part of being a responsible pet owner. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up. Do your best to keep the same vet for your pet’s entire life. This will ensure they know the history of your cat well.

Dog Products

TIP! Cats are curious by nature, which can end up getting them into trouble. If they have a collar, this can be a safety issue if they get stuck.

Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. It is possible that a dog’s product could cause a serious adverse effect on a cat. Be very careful with the flea products you use. Dog products that are flea related can kill a cat. Actually, it is best to separate the cat from the dog once the flea problem has been treated.

Cat claws are one of the worst enemies of your home and furniture. Think about a scratching post or kitty tower if your cat’s claws become a problem. Give them some encouragement and let them know it is okay to scratch that. Although this may take time, your cat should eventually claw the device rather than your furniture.

Get a microchip for your cat. Indoor cats could run out your door or jump out the window. Collars and tags can help get your cat home, however cats are experts at wiggling out of these, not to mention the risk they pose if they were to get snagged on a bush or tree branch. Microchips are as tiny as a piece of rice and will tell people where the cat belongs. Most vets and all shelters can scan these chips to get your contact information and there is no risk of losing the chip.

TIP! When your female cat is old enough, it’s vital to get her spayed. Even if she stays inside all the time, she could get out when in heat and end up pregnant.

Put the litter box in an ideal location. It shouldn’t be put in an area with high traffic and should be far from their food. Allow for adequate ventilation to dispel any odors. Both you and your pet will appreciate that.

Male cats often develop crystals in their bladder that come out in their urine. This can be prevented with a proper diet. These are very painful and expensive to treat. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Check the label. Poultry-based foods are generally lower in magnesium than fish.

If you have to travel with a cat you should remember their ears. You and your cat probably have different ideas about the ideal volume for the car stereo, for instance: Remember that your cat’s hearing is more sensitive than yours. Try turning down your tunes or keeping it off to make your cat’s trip better.

TIP! Keep your cat from having a shocking experience by spraying electrical cords with bitter apple. If your cat still prefers to chew on cords, then you have to make sure they stay covered.

When you get a kitten for kids, you have to set up a few rules first. Tell your kids which rooms the cat is allowed in. If the cat is to be indoors, tell your children not to allow him outside. By making the rules well known to your children, your children will understand what is and is not allowed.

Now you know how to care for your cat properly. If left unchecked, stray cats can do a lot of damage. Just remember that cats are delicate creatures that need to always be handled with love and affection. You may even find your best friend in a cat.