Do you have a cat? If you are, you know just how awesome it is. A cat requires much love and attention. Thankfully, you should be able to give your pet everything it needs. This article will discuss some great cat care ideas.

If you want to have the love of a cat, get one from a shelter. Shelters are overflowing with wonderful cats, and the adoption fee usually covers essential vet care. When you adopt a cat from a shelter, you save a life and help keep the cat population under control.

TIP! Though things may appear to be fine, you should always schedule regular medical checkups for your feline pet. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up.

It’s crucial that your pet gets checkups from your vet regularly. Cats require special shots to prevent illness and the vet can check their overall health. Try to stick with one vet during the life of your pet. Your veterinarian needs to know about your pet’s history, and your cat will feel more comfortable if you always take her to the same vet.

Give your cat plenty of love and affection. Cats provide warmth and affection, and they also require the same from you. Cats need social time with the family just like people do so that they know that they are valued. They need to feel as though they are an important part of the family, as well.

Are you the proud owner of both a cat and dog? A dog will probably end up eating the cat’s food if it gets the chance. Feed your pets in different areas of the house, and monitor them while they eat. This also has the effect of stopping fights over the water before they start.

TIP! Older cats will appreciate a heated bed; you can use a heated tile to create one! Bake a one-foot tile made from terra cotta in the oven at 200 degrees F for around 15 to 20 minutes. Wrap it tightly in a towel and place it under the cat bed.

Keep you cat’s old scratching post even if it is beginning to look worn. Your cat will enjoy the post most when it has been well used. Removing the post could cause your cat to look for something else scratch, possibly damaging your furniture.

You cat should get cat food that is of a good quality. Beef, fish or chicken, all great protein sources, should head the list of main ingredients. Any foods with non-protein sources, such as corn, should be avoided. Cats are carnivores, so if you want them to be as healthy as possible, you need to be sure they’re eating enough animal protein.

Get a drinking fountain for your cat. Cats like their water to move. Cats will respond more positively to streams of water. You could even consider turning on your sink a few times a day to let your cat drink from the faucet. This is a more natural way for them to drink.

TIP! Female cats need to be spayed as soon as they reach the proper age. 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.

Make canned food the mainstay of your cat’s diet. It sometimes has more benefits over dry. Your cat will get extra protein and fats from canned food along with some of the water it needs every day. It’s also much softer on older teeth if your cat is getting up there in years. Ask your vet, though canned food is often better for your cat.

It is important that your cat always where a collar that identifies them. Even if yours is an indoor cat, this is still an important safety measure. The lure of an open door or window is very attractive to your curious cat. The tag your cat wears should display your number and your veterinarian’s information. This will be important especially if you have a cat with medical issues.

Understand that all cats need exercise and play time. Play is necessary for all mammals no matter the age or species. Although older cats won’t be as active as younger cats, they still need a little exercise. Make an effort to have playtime with your cat regularly.

TIP! The cat’s litter box should be placed in the right spot. Don’t put it in a busy area, and keep it away from your cat’s food.

Think about extra care before you take home a cat with long hair. The hair looks good, except when it’s all over your furniture. Unless you are prepared to do more cleaning, don’t buy a long haired cat. It should also be noted that long haired cats are much more susceptible to hairballs.

Litter Box

Be aware whenever your cat suddenly quits using its litter box. A common sign that a cat has a medical condition is failure to use the bathroom in the litter box. Infections and problems with the kidneys and bladder may be the culprit. Consult with your veterinarian when your cat refuses to use its litter box.

TIP! Be attentive to your cat and give them your love and company, often. Cats provide warmth and affection, and they also require the same from you.

Avoid using phenol-containing chemicals if you have cats. Phenol is typically found in cleaning products such as Pine-Sol and Lysol. The smell offends them and being exposed to it for several hours can cause liver problems.

Never give your cat a medication that was formulated for humans. If you cat suffers from health issues, ask your vet for his recommended treatment option. Refrain from giving cats any medication not intended for them.

Dry food is a good choice for your cat. Kittens need wet food more than adult cats because it’s easier to chew. When the adult teeth develop, dry, hard food will help make teeth stronger. If you have a picky eater, you might want to try blending wet food with dry food.

TIP! If you’re taking a trip with your cat, be sure to protect its ears. While you may like some good tunes, your cat is going to appreciate other things.

You love your cat and want to care for them properly. WIth the tips here, you are more ready than ever to care for your cat. Use the tips in this piece to keep your cat happy and in good health. Show the same love that you expect from your cat.