One of the most unique animals is a cat. Their intelligence, combined with their independence and affectionate nature make them a great choice of pet. As a cat owner, you need to be responsible and make sure your cat is well-taken care of. You should go over this article to learn more about the different things you can do to take care of your cat.

Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. Cats love to play with hanging cords and this poses the threat of your cat hurting themselves or becoming entangled. This could lead to a severe injury or even death. Therefore, ensure that drape cords are pinned away from your cat’s reach.

TIP! Visit your local shelter if you’re thinking about getting a cat. Many shelters are overcrowded with lovable and adoptable cats.

Ensure your cat remains groomed. A cat requires regularly brushing and combing. If you do this often, their coat will stay clean. Having a clean fur coat helps reduce the amount of hairballs that get spit up around the house. Keeping a cat well groomed basically helps keep them looking their best, along with your home.

Cats like to get into all sorts of small spaces. Cats that wear collars are at risk should they become stuck somewhere cramped. The advantage to a breakaway type collar is that if enough pressure is put on it, it will just let go rather than strangle the cat. This can help to save a couple of your cat’s nine lives.

If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. Allow a terra cotta tile to heat in an oven for 15 minutes at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Put it inside an old towel, then place it beneath the cat’s bed. Change every few hours if you like.

TIP! A vet trip should happen for your cat yearly. Cats need yearly shots and overall health assessments.

Keeping cats from a counter really can be tough. Cats enjoy heights, as they can monitor events from their perch. One good way to beat this problem is by giving your kitty some safe, high perches throughout the house. Keep your cats off the kitchen counter by placing their towers near the kitchen or even in it.

Cats can have nocturnal tendencies. It is likely that they will want to play while you are sleeping. Keep your bedroom door shut if your cats make too much noise at night. Your cat will not bother you in the middle of the night if this area is off limit.

Try to figure out the cause if you find your cat meowing excessively. After some time, you’ll understand why your cat purs or meows based on what she wants. She could be signaling that she is hungry, or she might want to go outside. Make sure you are paying attention in order to better understand your cat.

TIP! Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. Cats have very strong, negative reactions to products formulated for dogs.

Don’t try to show your feline how to go in the litter box. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. A common misconception is to rub your cats paws into the kitty litter however this isn’t a good idea.

Brush your cat’s coat often. The act of brushing helps the coat become glossy, and it helps stimulate the skin. You will also decrease the amount of fur throughout your home. This prevents hairballs, which can cause choking, and builds up in the cat’s stomach from self grooming.

Carriers are great devices for you to have as a cat owner. Dogs and cats will respond differently to punishment. Positive reinforcement is a better training tool for cats. Place a beloved blanket or item inside the carrier and let it stay open near the cat’s usual haunts. This will teach your cat that the carrier is a good thing. Once the cat is in the carrier, they will be so much easier to transport.

TIP! Don’t allow your cat to get bored too often. Your cat needs plenty of exercise.

Play is essential to your cat’s life. Many animals like to play, and that includes humans and cats. Older cats may not have much energy, but they still like to play. Enjoy your cat every day.

Happy dogs wag their tail. When a cat wags its tail, it means something very different. Tail wagging in a cat usually indicates a mental conflict that your cat is mulling over, such as deciding whether to flee or attack. It’s especially important to keep an eye on your cat’s tail when you’re holding it. If you see it start to move, it’s time to put your pet down before you wind up getting scratched!

Don’t give a cat human medications. If health problems arise, take your cat to a vet. You can kill a cat by giving them human grade medications.

TIP! Give your kitty lots of love. A cat’s companionship should be returned with the same.

If you were home all the time when you first adopted your cat and are now going to be out of the home, your cat might get lonely without you there. It can be a good idea to get a companion cat to keep yours company when you are at work.

Dry food is great for cats. Kittens need wet food, though. When adult teeth come in, the harder foods maintain the strength of their teeth. If you have a picky eater, you might want to try blending wet food with dry food.

It can be vastly rewarding to own a cat as long as you realize the commitment involved and are willing to put in the time and energy required. Be sure to master the advice that you have just read. Put everything you’ve learned to use to keep your cat happy and healthy.