Many people make the mistake of not planning when they get a cat for the first time, and they run into a lot of issues. When one adopts unprepared, bad things can happen. Even when you are prepared you might run into some issues. All you can do is research as much as you can and hope for the best.

Keep your drapery cords out of the reach of your cat. Do not let your cat play with these. If the cords are in loops and the cat jumps into them or plays with them, they could possibly get them caught around their neck. This could kill them. It is highly recommended that you keep all drape cords pinned in such a way that the cat can’t see them so as to prevent any accidents.

TIP! Ensure that you groom your cat regularly and properly. Cats require frequent brushing or combing.

Local rescue organizations are a great place to look for a new pet cat. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. Rescuing a cat can end up making a big difference in both of your lives.

If your cat is female, you need to get it spayed at 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. When this occurs, your cat could get pregnant. You can prevent this by spaying or neutering your cat.

Regular visits to the vet will preserve your cat’s health. They should have regular check ups annually, and more appointments should be made if they need to get important shots. If there are more pressing health problems, take your cat to the vet right away.

TIP! If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. You can do this simply with a terra cotta tile measuring a square foot.

Don’t let your cat get frequently bored. Cats need to play and get regular exercise. Unfortunately, many owners do not realize this important part of ownership. If your cat is bored, it might develop a depression, obsessive compulsive behaviors or ruin some of your furniture. Make sure your cats have a wide variety of toys and plenty of room for active play. If your cats are kept inside, set up a carpet lined scratching pad or post. There are many climbing structures that can be purchased or made for cats who enjoy heights.

Normally cats are nocturnal animals. The result is that cats prefer to be more active during the night. If you are having a hard time sleeping because of your cats, close the door. You can keep them from bothering you at night and getting your feet while you’re under covers.

Litter Box

TIP! When your female cat is old enough, it’s vital to get her spayed. Even if you have an indoor female cat, if it escapes when it’s in heat it could get you a bunch of kittens you weren’t planning on having.

The litter box for your cat needs to be kept in a good place. You shouldn’t keep it near your pet’s food, and you shouldn’t keep it in an area people walk through a lot. Also be sure that the cat litter area is ventilated so the smell doesn’t linger. Your cat is certain to appreciate a litter box that is put into a good location.

Make sure that you have a good tablecloth for your kitten. Cats sometimes like to eat food outside of their bowl. That can mean a bigger mess for you to clean. Think about putting a placemat underneath the bowl or make your own tablecloth out of fabric.

Do you own a dog and a cat? Dogs love to eat cat food! This is why you should have a feeding area for your cat that is too high for the dog to reach. This will prevent the two from fighting over the water when the food dishes are empty.

TIP! You shouldn’t ever use products designed to be used on dogs on your cat. Cats will have a reaction that’s negative towards a product made for dogs.

You should talk to other pet owners if you have an issue with yours. Although you might want to attempt to handle the problem yourself, other cat owners can provide you with excellent advice that may help you to resolve it. You can find online cat forums to ask questions, or you can speak with your vet.

Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. This skill is something your cats pick up on their own, not something that can be taught to them. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.

If you offer a variety of foods to your cat, it will be less picky about what it eats. If they only eat the same food, they may never eat another food in the future.

TIP! If you have an outdoor kitty, make sure to invest in a break away collar with an identification tag. Cats can get lost, and they need a tag to be found.

The excellent advice provided here is helpful for any cat regardless of its breed or age. There are raising concepts that are shared among cats, but there can still be some variation. Most importantly, enjoy your cat.