As one of the best pets out there, cats are a pleasure to have, but caring for them can get a bit spendy. If you are unprepared for the costs, challenges, and care associated with raising a cat, you are not likely to have a good experience. Here are a few ways that you can still keep your cat and save money while caring for them.

Cats will try to get into many different crevices. If they have a collar, this can be a safety issue if they get stuck. A collar that is a breakaway model will detach itself if it gets pulled on. This can help to save a couple of your cat’s nine lives.

TIP! You should be bringing your cat to their vet for a check-up regularly. There are shots and vaccinations that are standard and necessary for your cat.

When your female cat is old enough, it’s vital to get her spayed. You may believe that this is unnecessary if your cat stays inside all the time; however, cats almost always find a way to get outside, especially when they are in heat. When this occurs, your cat could get pregnant. Getting your cat spayed is a great way to stop this from going on.

Dog Products

Avoid using dog products on cats. Cats don’t like dog products. When it comes to flea products this is particularly true. Using dog flea products on your cat can kill them. After your dog receives a flea treatment, keep your cat away for at least a few hours.

TIP! Older cats will appreciate a heated bed; you can use a heated tile to create one! Just get a tile and heat it up in the oven for a while to place under the cat’s bed. Keep the temperature of the oven at 200 degrees.

Spritz a little bitter apple on electrical cords to protect your cats. You can also cover your cords under a rug or tape them to walls. An inexpensive way to hide electrical cords is to thread them through used paper towel rolls. The cords on electronics should be hidden as well.

The litter box for your cat needs to be kept in a good place. A cat’s litter box should be in a quiet spot in the house, away from where your cat eats. Also, minimize the smell by making sure it is a well ventilated area. Your kitty will thank you.

Cats spend a ton of time grooming themselves. When your cat’s coat is long, it can result in hairballs. Special food can help. Certain cat foods are made just for decreasing hairballs, benefiting both your cat and yourself.

TIP! Cats are nocturnal animals. Your cat will probably be very active during the night.

If your cat is traveling with you, remember their ears. While you may like some good tunes, your cat is going to appreciate other things. To ensure your cat’s trip is pleasant, turn off the music or keep the volume low.

Do you have both a cat and dog? Dogs will always try to eat a cat’s food. Therefore, your cat’s food bowl should be placed in a high location that is out of your dog’s reach. Separate eating spaces are a must to avoid fights between your pets.

It’s difficult to deny that owning any type of pet comes with costs and conundrums. It can feel as though you’re actually caring for a child. As you have learned here, there are ways you can make caring for your cat easier and more fun.