A cat is a very complex creature. They can be an enigma from the moment they enter your home. Use the tips in this article to better take care of your cat. The below article contains excellent advice on how to properly care for your cat.

Take your cat in for regular vet exams. Cats need vaccinations to keep them healthy, and your vet can keep an eye out for any other health issues. Try to stay with the same veterinarian throughout your pet’s life. This one vet will be aware of the cat’s history.

TIP! Brush and trim your cat’s fur often to keep it looking sharp. You can regularly brush or comb your cat.

Taking your cat to the vet is part of being a responsible pet owner. Cats should go to a vet at least once each year for a check up, and more frequently for required shots. Cats should go to a vet immediately if they have any conditions, health problems, or injuries that need to be tended to right away.

Cat claws are one of the worst enemies of your home and furniture. If your cat is ripping up and shredding your home, invest in a kitty tower or scratching post. Put cat nip on it to attract them to it. Your cat will eventually understand they should only use the post or tower for scratching.

It’s not easy to keep cats off counters. After all, cats prefer to stay high so that they can keep an eye out on everything. To help prevent your cat from doing this, you can establish tall places specifically for your cat. Having a cat tower near your kitchen will keep them off your counters.

TIP! It is not safe to use dog products for your feline friend. Products designed for dogs or other animals could cause a negative reaction from your cat.

You might find that your cat sleeps all day and wants to be active at night. 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. This will keep the cats away while you’re trying to sleep because they won’t be jumping all over you.

Do you have both a dog and a cat? Dogs will eat a cat’s food any time they’re given the chance. Because of this, you should keep your cat’s food in a high spot that your dog won’t be able to reach. This will prevent the two from fighting over the water when the food dishes are empty.

Cats love high spots. To make your cat really happy, give it a place to safely survey its area. If you’re averse to cat trees for some reason, a shelf without breakable items will work. Additionally, you can place a bed or blanket in this space.

TIP! A cat’s claws can do significant damage to your home and belongings. If you find your cat tearing up things around your home, buy a scratching post or cat tower.

Don’t try to show your feline how to go in the litter box. This skill is something your cats pick up on their own, not something that can be taught to them. Don’t force your cat into the box or you will traumatize them.

Get your cat used to a carrier. Dogs and cats will respond differently to punishment. They like responding to encouragement better. Place a beloved blanket or item inside the carrier and let it stay open near the cat’s usual haunts. The cat will feel safe when it enters this carrier after a while. In the future, your cat will not get scared when you put him in the carrier.

Feed your cat top quality food. Pay attention to the ingredient list on any food you feed them. Protein needs to be one of the very first items on the list, while fillers like corn and other grains should be avoided. Steer clear of food made primarily of corn and fillers. Cats are carnivores and their diet should reflect that.

TIP! Think about putting a microchip in your pet. Indoor cats can slip out an open door.

Feed canned food to your cat. While dry food is less expensive, canned food is healthier. There is more water, more fat and more protein in it. It’s easier for older cats to chew as well. Your vet can give you more information specific to your cat, though canned food is usually better.

Litter Box

Make sure that the litter box placement is easy for your cat to get to. You may want to place in some out-of-the-way corner so the smell doesn’t bother anyone. The litter box should be somewhere that is easy for your cat to get to, however. You want your cat to feel comfortable using their litter box. If the litter box is kept on a cement floor, then place a rug or mat underneath it.

TIP! Most cats tend towards nocturnal behavior. Your cat will probably be very active during the night.

When your cat is nearly ready to have her kittens, prepare a spacious, but protected area for your cat to give birth. Since there are so many kittens, the birthing process can take a few hours. If you believe your cat is still giving birth after six hours, you should immediately drive to the vet’s office.

Try moving your litter box somewhere else if the cat won’t use it. A cat knows that when it’s going to the bathroom it’s in a vulnerable situation, so you should make sure the box is in a calm, secure location. Good examples are laundry rooms, basements and other areas away from the hustle and bustle of the home.

This article will show you exactly how to make your cat happy. Take advantage of what you’ve learned so that you’ll be certain your pet has all that it needs. If you do, you might see a positive change in your cat’s behavior. This is a possibility!