Cats are fascinating pets. Their inclination toward independence is ideal for busy folks. Use the things that this article will teach you, and you’re going to have a cat that is happy and healthy throughout its life.

A heated tile for underneath your cat’s bed can provide real comfort. You can heat a terracotta tile in the oven at 200 degrees for about 15-20 minutes. Cover with a small blanket or towel, then place it beneath your pet’s bed. When the tile cools down, change it out for a fresh, warm one.

TIP! Grooming is an essential part of your cat’s care. You can regularly brush or comb your cat.

Have your cat chipped so you can find him if he runs away. One day, your indoor cat might leave through an open door or get outside through an open window. Collars or tags can identify your cat, but cats can wiggle out of those, and they are also at risk of getting hung up on something. A microchip will hold the contact information to reach you and it’s only about as big as a piece of rice. Nearly all veterinarians and shelters now have scanners capable of reading the information on these chips, and since they are under the skin, there is no chance of the chip getting lost.

Litter Box

You have to place a litter box correctly. Place the litter box away from high traffic areas. Additionally, the litter box should be placed away from your cat’s food and water. To minimize odors, keep it in a spot that’s well ventilated. Both you and your cat will be happier.

TIP! Female cats need to be spayed as soon as they reach the proper age. Even if she stays inside all the time, she could get out when in heat and end up pregnant.

Make sure that you never neglect your cat. Cats are looking for a response in kind in exchange for all of the friendly companionship they offer to humans. Like most people, cats like to socialize and feel that they are included in the family. They probably would like to feel as though they are a wanted part of the family.

Male cats may develop crystals in the urine, which usually occur as a result of a poor diet. This problem is painful for the cat and to your wallet, as well. Feed cats food that’s low in magnesium. Check the ingredients list on the label. Poultry-based foods are generally lower in magnesium than fish.

Talk to others when you have a problem with your cat. You may try to handle it yourself, but you might need input from other cat owners. You can locate forums about cats online if you search for them. On these forums you can ask for advice, or you can just speak with a vet.

TIP! Ensure that your cat goes to the vet often so that they are healthy. Cats should go to a vet at least once each year for a check up, and more frequently for required shots.

Never try to teach a cat to use a litter box. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. Don’t force your cat into the box or you will traumatize them.

Get your feline acclimated to its carrier. You cannot punish a cat the same way you would a dog. Cats are better trained by using patient encouragement. You should place a toy or a blanket inside the carrier and place it in an area where it will be noticed by your cat. Cats are natural explorers and sooner or later he will check it out. This takes the hassle out of traveling with your cat in its carrier.

Rotate the variety of food you feed your cat. Cats who eat the same food day after day either grow tired of it, or it becomes the only food that they will eat.

TIP! Spritz a little bitter apple on electrical cords to protect your cats. If your cat happens to be a champion cord-chewer, you’ll need to use cord covers to protect your cords.

If you want to buy a second cat, prepare for some time where the cats will be familiarizing themselves with each other. Do not expect an instant friendship. Instead, look for them to hide frequently, hiss and possibly even become physical with each other. Eventually, they will come to tolerate and actually enjoy being together.

Cat are great pets due to their intelligence and independent attitude. All cat owners should know how to care for their cats in the best ways. Read this article again and again until you have these tips memorized. This will help your cat enjoy a high quality of life.