Cats aren’t cheap to keep healthy and happy. Vet bills, toys, food, and cat litter costs can make anyone reconsider owning cats. This article has ideas you can use to make living with a cat cheaper and easier.

If you are planning to get a pet cat, be sure to check with your local shelter. Shelters have lots of great cats available, and your adoption fee often covers key veterinary services. You really are saving a life and keeping the feline population in check all in one!

TIP! If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. Heat a fabric covered heating pad in the microwave for a couple of minutes, making sure that is not too hot to the touch.

If you have an outside cat, you need to give it a collar and some identification tags. Cats can get lost, and they need a tag to be found. Ensure that you at least put the name of your cat and your personal phone number on this tag.

Cat Gets

A microchip will allow you to find your pet if it is lost. Indoor cats could run out your door or jump out the window. Cat collars are a great thing to have in case your cat gets lost, but they also pose a risk if they get caught on something. Your important information can all fit nicely on a rice grain sized microchip. All shelters and vets have scanners to ensure your cat gets home safely.

TIP! Keeping your cat off of the counter can be difficult. Cats like to climb on things and a counter can look very inviting.

Do not isolate the litter box in a distant place. Place the litter box away from high traffic areas. Additionally, the litter box should be placed away from your cat’s food and water. Additionally, don’t make the mistake of putting it in a poorly-ventilated area, or the smell will become overpowering. Your cat will certainly appreciate your efforts, and you will too!

Are you the owner of both a dog and cat? A dog will take any opportunity they have to eat your cats food. This makes it a good idea to have a cat feeding place high up enough that your dog can’t get to it. This also has the effect of stopping fights over the water before they start.

Cats like to be up high. For a truly happy cat, provide a safe place for your cat to survey his surroundings. If a big cat tree is not something that can easily fit in your home, get a sturdy shelf that can be used as a perch. The cat will especially enjoy it if you put a blanket on top.

TIP! Don’t let your cat get frequently bored. Cats need play and exercise like other pets.

Speak to your peers about your cat issues. It can really help to get advice from fellow cat owners. The Internet has many cat forums where you can ask your questions, or simply speak with your vet.

Give high quality canned food to your pet cat. It sometimes has more benefits over dry. The moist food gives your cat water, and it usually has more protein and fat in it. Canned food is much easier to chew for older cats. Speak with the vet, but food in cans tends to be better.

Play is essential to your cat’s life. All mammals love to play. An aging cat may not have as much energy as a kitten, however it will still enjoy a little light playtime. Playing with your cat will help you to form happy and cherished memories to look back on.

TIP! Most cats are nocturnal. This means that they’re going to be running around more when it gets dark.

Cats are one of many pets that are pricy to care for. Cats require a lot of care, almost like an actual human child. Fortunately, now that you are more informed by the knowledge presented here, you can save money and enjoy a better cat.