You have the opportunity to make an animal’s life better. There are plenty of cats who need a home. You simply have to adopt one, and the article below will teach you how.

An outdoor cat must always wear a tag on its collar. Cats can travel far, and a tag will help you find the cat easier if they get lost. The tag should have at least the pet’s name and the number where you can be reached.

TIP! Check with your shelter before you purchase a cat. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care.

Enticing kitty to stay off the kitchen counter is sometimes challenging. Cats like to climb on things and a counter can look very inviting. One way to nip this problem in the bud is to give your cat a dedicated perch of their own as an alternative to using your space. Your cat will not go on your counters if there’s a cat tower close to the kitchen.

It’s important that you don’t forget your cat and allow them to become bored too easily. Just like dogs, cats need playtime and physical exercise, too. Too frequently this need is overlooked by owners. Bored cats are more prone to depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as many other behavioral issues. Therefore, ensure your cat has enough space for exercising and playing. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.

Younger children can be a little rough with cats sometimes. Teach your children how to handle a cat. Show them how to gently pick kitty up and what kinds of activities are appropriate. Tell them that a cat’s bones need to be handled more gently than those of a dog.

TIP! Your house can really get torn apart by a cat’s claws. If your cat is ripping up and shredding your home, invest in a kitty tower or scratching post.

Do not attempt to teach your cat how to use the litter box. This comes quite naturally to them and is not something that is learned. You may have heard that rubbing your cat;s paws in litter will help them learn, but that may have a traumatizing effect.

Mix up the food you feed your cat to avoid them becoming a picky eater. Keeping the same kind of food around most of the time makes it to where they only want that specific food.

You cat should get cat food that is of a good quality. Ensure that the food your cat eats is very high in protein. Steer clear of food made primarily of corn and fillers. Because cats are carnivores, their diet need only consist of a good source of protein.

TIP! A microchip will allow you to find your pet if it is lost. Even an indoor cat may find a way out of your home.

It is important that your cat always where a collar that identifies them. This is crucial even if the cat lives inside. Cats are naturally curious and a door or window that’s open invites exploration. They should wear a tag with your vet’s info as well as your telephone number. This is also essential if they have specific medical needs.

Make sure that you play with your cat as often as possible. All animals of all ages need to play and a cat is no different. Even older cats love a little play, just not as rough. Make sure you and your cat are thoroughly enjoying each other.

Are you getting overwhelmed with all the cat hair in your home? Cats shed frequently; therefore, you need to brush them on a regular basis. If your cat sheds, it’s important to brush then frequently. Frequent brushing or combing keeps the cat from getting a tangled, matted coat.

TIP! The correct location is important when picking a spot for a cat’s litter box. Keep the litter from the cat food, and avoid placing it in a busy area.

With dogs, tail wagging is a sign they’re in a good mood, or glad their owners are around. Cats also wag their tails, but for totally different reasons. Tail-wagging in cats may indicate conflict. Similarly, if your cats tail wags when you hold it, it’s wise to put it down at that time.

Being a cat owner should bring you pride. Not only that, but you are giving another creature a chance at a better life. The relationship between you and the cat you care for can last a lifetime. Take care of them and they’ll care for you.