Many people agree that cats are the best pets available. As the owner of a cat, you have the special responsibility to provide adequate attention, care and grooming to this ensure a healthy life. Read this article to learn helpful tips.

If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Sometimes, you may find the cat of your dreams at a shelter. When you bring home a shelter cat, you will be saving its life and you will be doing your part to help out.

TIP! Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. These are not great play toys for cats.

Cats often view small spaces as a fun challenge. Cats that wear collars are at risk should they become stuck somewhere cramped. Therefore, use a breakaway collar that will come undone whenever it’s being pulled very tightly. Your cat can preserve a few of his nine lives with this.

Spraying the electrical cords in your home with a bitter apple solution helps keep the cats from chewing on them. If this does not work, make sure you cover the cords. Loose cords can be bundled and tucked inside old paper towel rolls. Put away electronics that have tempting, thin cords when you’re not using them.

Scratching Post

TIP! Keep your cat properly groomed. Regular combing and brushing is usually all that is required.

Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If you have a cat that is wreaking havoc, buy a scratching post. Redirect your cat to the scratching post when they start to go after your furniture. Catnip can be put in the posts or on the tower to help train the cat to use it. It may take some time, but it should eventually work.

Being nocturnal is quite normal for cats. In other words, they’ll be up and about late into the night. If your busy kitties are keeping you up into the wee hours, try simply closing your bedroom door. This will keep them from pouncing on you and trying to play in the middle of the night.

Pick the right location for your cat’s litter box. Don’t put it close to your cat’s food or in an area that gets too much traffic. In addition, you should ensure you place the litter box in a well-ventilated area to minimize the smell. Both you and your cat will be happier.

TIP! You should always bring your cat to a vet to make sure everything is okay. There are shots and vaccinations that are standard and necessary for your cat.

Cats spend a ton of time grooming themselves. If your kitty is a long-haired breed, the result of this might be hairballs. Special food can help. Certain cat foods are made just for decreasing hairballs, benefiting both your cat and yourself.

Male cats may develop crystals in the urine, which usually occur as a result of a poor diet. Passing those crystals hurts and having this corrected by a vet is expensive. Try to find a cat food that has a low level of magnesium. Look over the label. Poultry-based foods are generally lower in magnesium than fish.

When your cat accompanies you on a trip, remember to consider the health of their ears. They don’t want to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. Therefore, try lowering your music or turning it off in order for your cat to enjoy the trip more.

TIP! Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Even indoor cats may get out of your home at some point.

Are you the owner of a dog and a cat? Keep in mind that the two animals have separate dietary needs, and dogs will try cat food if given the chance. Feed your pets in different areas of the house, and monitor them while they eat. That also means they don’t fight about water after eating the food.

Be very careful about allowing children to be alone with a kitten. Younger children, especially under 5, cannot be left alone with your cat. A child of that age doesn’t realize when they are being too rough with a pet. When your children age, you will realize when they’re able to deal with a pet.

Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. This comes quite naturally to them and is not something that is learned. Contrary to what most people believe, it’s actually incorrect to rub a cat’s paw in the litter.

TIP! Location is key when placing a litter box. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals.

As you know already, it can be very rewarding to be a cat owner. To make sure your cat is happy and healthy, learn all you can. You should read over this information a few times in order to care for your cat properly. Your cat will shower you with thanks!