If you want a wonderful pet, look no further than a cat. Those new to cat ownership or just interested in cat care should read the following tips. Continue reading for some advice you can use when you live with a cat.

When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care. Adopting a cat this way helps to save their life and cut down on unwanted animal births.

TIP! Keep your cat groomed. Cats need to be combed or brushed regularly.

Your cat will want to climb into small spaces. If your cat wears a collar they might get hurt, and stuck. A collar that will breakaway is the best idea for safety. This could help save your cat if it gets caught in a tight spot.

If your cat is a female, you’ll want to spay her once she reaches the proper age. Even if you have an indoor female cat, if it escapes when it’s in heat it could get you a bunch of kittens you weren’t planning on having. Having your cat spayed is the only way to 100 percent prevent accidental litters.

Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. If you try to use products meant for dogs, it can make your cat sick, or even kill him. Flea products should not be used on cats in any circumstance. Your cat can die if you use a dog flea product on it. Your cat needs to be away from the dog after your dog has received a flea treatment.

TIP! Make frequent checkups with your vet to keep your cat healthy. Cats require special shots to prevent illness and the vet can check their overall health.

Be sure to show your cat affection as much as possible. They are very loving animals and deserve affection back. Cats thrive when treated like part of the household, so involve them in daily activities around the house. They also like feeling important and a big member of the family.

Your cat has sensitive ears, especially in the car when they’re stressed out. You may love belting out your favorite tunes as you drive on the freeway, but your cat probably enjoys softer sounds. So, keep your volume down, or turn it off to give your cat a better travel experience.

Cats are usually great for kids, but smaller kids may be too rough with them. Spend time instructing your children on cat care. Demonstrate how the cat should be petted and handled and encourage your children to be very gentle. Cats’ bones are more fragile than those of dogs, so they need gentler treatment.

TIP! Cats often view small spaces as a fun challenge. If they have a collar on, this might prove to be a safety risk if they happen to get stuck.

If you give your kids a kitten, provide them with firm boundaries at the same time. You can then teach your kids which areas your cat can go into. They should know that indoor cats can’t go outside. By getting these rules into place before having a cat, you’ll be sure that your children can understand.

Use care if you have kids and a cat. Under five, the child needs to be watched. You may not have noticed a problem when you see them together, but very kids do not really understand they can accidentally harm or kill a kitten. As they grow, you will be able to decide when it is the right time for them to handle a cat or kitten without supervision.

High areas are ideal for cats. Designating a high-up area where your cat can hang out and watch everything from will help him to feel comfortable. If a cat tower is not ideal, a simple shelf that does not have any breakable items can work. Put a blanket on it so they can rest peacefully.

TIP! Keep your cat from having a shocking experience by spraying electrical cords with bitter apple. If that doesn’t work, cover those cords up however you can.

You should brush your cat very regularly. Brushing spreads natural oils throughout a cat’s fur, and also helps stimulate blood flow in their skin. Additionally, brushing helps to expedite hair shedding. This will help to eliminate hairballs, which build in your cat’s stomach and prevents it from grooming itself.

Never reprimand your cat for missing the litter box. Usually this is a sign that you haven’t cleaned the box recently. Punishing your cat will just make them afraid of you later on.

To avoid having a picky cat, switch up the kinds of foods you give him. If they only eat the same food, they may never eat another food in the future.

TIP! Cat’s claws can really put a dent in your furniture. If your beloved feline friend is shredding and damaging parts of your home, try investing in a cat tower or a scratching post.

Let your cat take its time when you add a new cat to your home. They will probably hide from each other, hiss or even attack each other. However, cats should eventually learn to co-habitate properly.

Litter Box

Make sure you consider where you are going to place the cat’s litter box. You may really want to hide that box from everyday life. Make sure that your cat can get to its litter box very easily. Your cat will use the litter box if it is placed in a quiet place and away from smells your cat does not enjoy. If you have the box on a floor that is cold cement for example, put a rug or mat under it.

TIP! Put your cats’ litter box where it is most acceptable to him. Try to keep it away from areas of household traffic and away from your cat’s eating areas.

You should get a collar with your contact information and make sure your cat wears it all the time. Even house cats run the risk of getting loose. If this occurs, you should ensure you do all you can to get your cat back.

A cat is an amazing pet to own. Cats provide plenty of affection and stress relief to their owners. You have to give them all they need to he happy and healthy, though. Try these tips and advice, and you will enjoy many years with your cat.