Cats are unrivaled among animals and can be terrific pets. Cats are entertaining and can keep rodents away. You might be surprised at how many ways a cat can improve your life.

If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. Bake a one-foot tile made from terra cotta in the oven at 200 degrees F for around 15 to 20 minutes. Wrap the tile in a towel and then put it under the bed. This should be changed a few times a day to maximize comfort.

TIP! Prevent your cats from playing with drapery cords. Cats can potentially strangle themselves on these cords so it is important to protect your cat from this potential danger.

Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Even an indoor cat could someday jump through an open window. Collars or tags can identify your cat, but cats can wiggle out of those, and they are also at risk of getting hung up on something. Microchips are minuscule, but can hold all the essential information about your cat and its hope. Most organizations that deal with animal care can scan your cat for microchips, and because they are implanted, they won’t get lost.

Litter Box

The cat’s litter box should be placed in the right spot. Don’t put it where the cat can’t reach it or near their food. It is also advisable to keep the litter box area ventilated to control odor. Not only will your cat appreciate it but you will too.

TIP! Cats like sneaking into small spaces. A collar can become a liability if your cat is especially adventurous.

If you give your kids a kitten, provide them with firm boundaries at the same time. Make sure your children know where in the house the cat is permitted to be. Make sure the kids know if your cat is indoors only. This will ensure nothing bad happens.

Cats like to be high up to see the surrounding area. Providing a safe environment for your cat is key to its happiness. If you do not want cats making a mess in your house, remove breakable items from your shelves. For an additional treat, put a little bed or blanket in there, too.

Make sure that you do not instruct your cat on using the litter box. This is a natural instinct that cannot be taught. It’s not a good idea to rub your cats paws in litter. Some people think this is the way to train. It isn’t.

TIP! If your cat is a female, be sure to get her spayed when she is old enough. Even if she spends her time indoors, it is possible for her to escape while in heat, causing an unwanted pregnancy.

Feed your cat quality cat food. Look at the ingredients and make sure protein like fish, chicken, or beef is near the top. The foods to avoid are those with a large amount of corn and low amounts of protein. Cats are carnivores and must have a lot of animal protein for proper nutrition and better health.

Drinking Fountain

Think about getting a drinking fountain for your cat. Cats like their water to move. Normally, cats much prefer water that comes out in a stream. Cats will often drink from a running sink and actually prefer it over the water in their bowl. A drinking fountain provides a more natural and environmentally friendly way for your cat to drink.

TIP! Be sure you have a vet that your cat sees regularly so it stays healthy. Cats need routine shots and wellness checks just like people.

Getting a second cat is usually beneficial to both, but you have to give the two cats a few weeks to get acclimated to each other. They may hide from one another, hiss, or even swat each other. Eventually they are going to get used to each other, and they may even end up becoming best friends.

Really consider where you place the litter box. You may want to place in some out-of-the-way corner so the smell doesn’t bother anyone. The litter box needs to be placed in a spot that your cat can reach very easily. Cats are finicky, so you must provide an environment that is not inconvenient or off-putting to the animal. Keep this in mind when deciding on the permanent placement for your best friend’s potty.

Cats may be less effective for security than guard dogs, but they still track down the small critters in your home. Cats have any number of ways to contribute to family life, from providing love and affection to keeping vermin populations down. With these skills and admirable qualities, it is easy to see why cats are a desirable addition to the family.