Cats are probably the most amazing creatures you can have as pets. Cats are also a very common household pet, and they are very populated in many areas. It can pose quite the challenge and be difficult at first when they are brought indoors. These smart, agile, powerful creatures can be a little hardheaded and require advanced tactics.

Keep your cat properly groomed. Cats have to be brushed or combed on a regular basis. If this is done frequently, your cat’s coat will be much cleaner. This will also reduce things like shedding and hairballs because it keeps them from having extra hair. Keeping your cat nicely groomed will keep him and your home looking their best.

TIP! If you own a female cat, you should have her spayed when she is old enough. It does not matter if you an indoor cat; if she gets out when in heat, you can end up with many kittens.

A vet trip should happen for your cat yearly. The vet will be able to provide your cat with needed vaccinations and any medications it requires. Veterinarians also keep tabs on your cat’s overall health and diagnose any problems they find. Always use the same veterinarian if possible. You won’t have to worry that the vet won’t have all of your cat’s medical records.

Flea Products

Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. Your cat will have a bad reaction to anything that has been specifically formulated for a dog. Flea products are a prime example. Flea products meant for dogs can seriously harm or kill a cat. Your cat needs to be away from the dog after your dog has received a flea treatment.

TIP! 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.

It is likely that your feline friend enjoys grooming his fur. Hairballs are very common for long-haired cats. To fix this problem, you can try buying a new food. The are specially formulated cat foods that help reduce the instances of hairballs, which is not only good for your cat, but also good for you and your feet in the middle of the night.

Male felines tend to have a build-up of crystals that present in the urine, so you need to avoid this with proper nutrition. These crystals can cause a lot of pain to your cat and could end up costing you a lot in medical expenses. Look for foods that are low in magnesium for your cat. Consult the ingredient list. Fish is often high in magnesium compared to chicken.

There is no need to spend hours trying to litter train your cat. This is a natural instinct that cannot be taught. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.

Scratching Post

If your cat has a scratching post that is beginning to look worn, don’t get rid of it. It may not look as nice, but cats love a scratching post with some wear and tear. There is a good chance if you got rid of it and bought a new one that your cat would start scratching up your furniture.

Splurge on your cat’s food. Look at ingredient lists, making sure that a protein source, such as beef, chicken or fish, is at the top of the list. Look for foods that do not have corn or elements that aren’t protein. Cats are naturally carnivorous. If you want to keep them healthy and happy, you need to feed them plenty of animal protein.

TIP! A microchip for your cat is something that you should really consider. Even an indoor cat could someday jump through an open window.

Your cat should be given food from a can. Although it is usually more expensive, canned food offers real nutritional advantages. That’s because this type of food provides your cat with more protein, good fat and water. It’s easier for older cats to chew as well. Speak with your vet, however generally speaking, canned cat food is better for your cat.

Litter Box

Put some thought into where you place the litter box. You may want to hide it away. You have to accept the fact that easy access for your cat is the first priority in choosing a spot for the litter box. Felines can be finicky. This means you must give them the right location and make sure it is inviting. If the littler box is on cold, hard floor, try placing a rug beneath it.

TIP! Cats are generally nocturnal. Do not be surprised if your cat is very active at night.

If your feline friend is having kittens, make sure to give her lots of room to birth in. Delivery can take between three and four hours. If the birth takes an excessively long time or you believe a kitten is stuck inside, an immediate visit to the veterinary hospital is essential.

If kitty won’t use the litter box, try moving it. The cat instinctively feels vulnerable when using the litter box, so make sure it’s in a location that’s totally quiet and safe. A basement or laundry area might be a good option.

Some foods that you like to consume daily might not be good for your cat to eat. Never allow your cat to nibble on garlic, onions or green tomatoes. Grapes, which seem harmless enough, are also a no-no. These foods are healthy for humans, but they can make cats very sick. Your cat should also steer clear of dairy products.

TIP! If your cat is excessively meowing, try to figure out why. If you have spent any significant amount of time around your cat, you will quickly find you can figure out what he wants when he cries.

Outsmarting your cat will quickly become an effortless endeavor after reading more tips like these. They will soon figure out what they need to avoid and where they can have a free reign. Although it may be difficult to train a cat, in actuality they are just as likely to be well-behaved and trained as your typical dog.