Just like many other types of pets, a cat has needs that the responsible owner must attend to. The grooming process for cats is different from other animals. It takes time to keep a cat clean and to brush them properly. This article contains suggestions on how to groom your cat.

Good grooming is important for cats. Brushing is a very important component towards taking care of your cat. Brushing rids your cat’s coat of dirt and helps keep them clean. Having a clean fur coat helps reduce the amount of hairballs that get spit up around the house. A cat that is well-groomed is one that looks the best at home.

TIP! Cats really enjoy squeezing into any and all small spaces. If they have to wear a collar then there may be a risk because your cat could end up getting stuck.

Don’t try using dog food or products for your cat. Cats don’t like dog products. This happens a lot with flea products. Canine flea medications are strong and often made from a different formula than the feline version. They can cause death in cats. After your dog receives a flea treatment, keep your cat away for at least a few hours.

Keeping cats from a counter really can be tough. They love being above everything so that they can watch it all. Give them an alternative. A cat tower near the kitchen will ensure that cats won’t lay on your counter.

Reconsider having an outdoor cat. This can compromise your cat’s safety. Your cat may get fleas or have other problems. They can get in a fight or be hit by a car. If the cat must go outside, set aside a small part of the backyard or front lawn as a place where they can go.

TIP! Spay your female cat. Even if she spends her time indoors, it is possible for her to escape while in heat, causing an unwanted pregnancy.

Do you own a dog and a cat? Dogs won’t hesitate to eat food from your cat’s bowl. Therefore, your cat’s food bowl should be placed in a high location that is out of your dog’s reach. Doing this will also help you avoid fights over the water bowl.

Cats love being up high. Your cat will appreciate being on top of a cupboard, fridge or anywhere they can surrey their environment. If you’d rather not invest in a cat tree, simply use a large shelf or bookcase without any breakable items. For an additional treat, put a little bed or blanket in there, too.

Litter Box

TIP! A cat’s claws can do significant damage to your home and belongings. A kitty tower can really save your furniture.

Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. This is something that comes naturally and is not learned. While many pet owners try to introduce their cats to a litter box by rubbing their front paws in the sand, this can sometimes traumatize your furry friend.

If your cats create messes near the litter box, don’t punish them. It might be happening because you aren’t caring for the box good enough. If your punish your car, he or she is just going to become scared of you.

Plan on spending the money for good cat food that contains the nutrients that your cat needs. Always look at the ingredients first. You want to see either fish, chicken or beef noted. Look for foods that do not have corn or elements that aren’t protein. Cats are naturally carnivorous. If you want to keep them healthy and happy, you need to feed them plenty of animal protein.

TIP! A microchip will allow you to find your pet if it is lost. Even cats that live their lives entirely indoors can suddenly escape out a window or door.

A collar and tags are a great way that your cat can be identified if it is found stray. This is necessary even for an indoors pet. Cats are curious by nature, and an open window or door invites exploration. It is a good idea to include your own phone number along with the name and contact number of your veterinarian. Include medical issues if appropriate.

Aired Cat

Think about how much extra care is entailed in bringing a long-haired cat into your home. Although it may look nice, it will look much worse when it sheds all over your home. If you don’t mind cleaning, get a long-haired cat. Long-haired cats also often have hairballs.

TIP! Make a tablecloth that your cat can use. Sometimes cats like to take food out of the bowl and eat it to the side of the bowl.

Are you getting overwhelmed with all the cat hair in your home? Cats do a lot of shedding, and it helps to brush them. If your cat sheds often, you will need to brush him just as much. This will also help their coat from getting tangled or matted.

Pay attention if your cat won’t use their litter box. Many feline health conditions can cause a cat to urinate and defecate in random places outside of their litter box. A UTI or kidney infection may be the reason for its bathroom problems. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.

Your cat will look and feel its best with the proper care. With proper care, your cat will enjoy a long and healthy life as your companion. It is likely that your cat will appreciate the efforts you have made to provide good grooming. Remember these tips for a happy and healthy cat.