Cats are difficult to please. You may not fully understand their preferences for years after you adopt them. Being informed on cats can make the cat care process easier. You should keep reading for some useful tips that will help you become a better pet owner.

You never want to leave the cords of your drapes dangling down. Cats love to play with hanging cords and this poses the threat of your cat hurting themselves or becoming entangled. They could be seriously hurt or even killed. Make sure that the cords are completely out of sight.

TIP! If you are planning to get a pet cat, be sure to check with your local shelter. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care.

Don’t let your cat get frequently bored. Cats require physical activity. The unfortunate thing is that many owners of cats don’t realize this. Cats who get bored can actually become depressed or display other undesirable behaviors. Give them room to play and a large number of toys. You need to provide your cats with something they can climb and scratch.

Cats are partially nocturnal. This means that they’re going to be running around more when it gets dark. If your cats keep you up late at night, you should close the bedroom door. This will ensure they don’t pounce on you at nighttime, or wake you up in other ways.

Most cats spend a large amount of time on grooming themselves. Long-haired cats often develop hairballs. To help your cat out with this problem, try buying him special food. There are foods that are made to reduce the frequency of hairballs. It’s a smart move for your cat and your sanity.

TIP! Avoid using dog products on cats. Cats don’t like dog products.

Try and figure out why kitty is meowing. Once you become familiar with your cat and its needs, it will become easier to determine what he needs when he meows. The meows may indicate hunger, happiness, or a desire to go exploring. Getting to know your cats cues will help you to interpret her meows.

High areas are ideal for cats. For a happy cat, make sure you establish a safe environment for them to scan their surroundings. If a cat tree is not in your future, providing a stable shelving unit with no small items on it will do very well. Additionally, you can place a bed or blanket in this space.

You should not get rid of your cat’s old scratching post. This is the condition that cats most appreciate. Cats may well try scratching something else entirely (like your furniture!) if you replace their beloved toy with something unfamiliar.

TIP! Spray electrical cords with some bitter apple to prevent cats from getting electrocuted. Most office stores sell a tube that you can stick all of your wires and cords through if the spray doesn’t work.

Don’t scrimp when it comes to your pet’s food. Check out the list of ingredients of any food you are considering buying. Ensure that an animal protein source, including fish, chicken, or beef, is the main ingredient. Corn and other such protein-free fillers are things you want to stay well away from. Cats are carnivores, so if you want them to be as healthy as possible, you need to be sure they’re eating enough animal protein.

Feed canned food to your cat. Dry food is usually cheaper, but canned food boasts a number of benefits. Your cat will get extra protein and fats from canned food along with some of the water it needs every day. Aging cats will find it easier to chew. Speak with the vet, but food in cans tends to be better.

Let your cat take its time when you add a new cat to your home. Two cats may fight, hiss, or hide from each other until they become more comfortable. If you give them enough time though, chances are good they will befriend each other and enjoy the extra company.

TIP! It’s important that you don’t forget your cat and allow them to become bored too easily. Cats require plenty of exercise.

The advice above will aid you in caring for your cat. Keep them in mind as you care for kitty. If you do this, you might get a more pleasant cat as a result. It could happen!