Do you own a cat? If you are, then you already know that your cat is a precious companion. Cats need a ton of care. Fortunately, it is easy to provide this and more for your cat. This article will show you how its done.

If you are planning to get a pet cat, be sure to check with your local shelter. Shelters have lots of great cats available, and your adoption fee often covers key veterinary services. Adopting your cat through a shelter means you are helping to control the cat population and saving a life at the same time.

TIP! When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. Shelters around the country are overflowing, and the cats there need more humans to help.

Keep your cat properly groomed. Cats have to be brushed or combed on a regular basis. This will keep them sterile and aesthetically pleasing. This will also reduce things like shedding and hairballs because it keeps them from having extra hair. Cat grooming will not only keep kitty looking great, but it will also help to reduce the effort spent picking up cat hair around the home.

Spay your female cat. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! Getting your cat spayed is a great way to stop this from going on.

Make sure your cat sees a vet regularly to maintain their good health. Cats need routine shots and wellness checks just like people. Cats should visit the vet right away if they are having any issues.

TIP! Good grooming is important for cats. You have to make sure your cat gets brushed or combed often.

Kitty claws can be quite destructive to fabric and furnishings. If your cat is ripping up and shredding your home, invest in a kitty tower or scratching post. It is much better if your cat uses his claws on that, rather than your furniture. It might take a little while, but eventually it should stop the problem.

A lot of cat owners have a hard time keeping their cats off the counter. After all, cats prefer to stay high so that they can keep an eye out on everything. One way to combat this behavior is to proved your cat with an elevated place it is okay to climb on. Placing a cat tower near the kitchen will help the cats to not lay on the counter.

Check prices online for your cat’s medication to see if they are cheaper than at your vet’s office. In an emergency, however, this might not be possible. It is possible to save up to 50% on certain medications by purchasing them online.

TIP! Be sure your cat gets regular checkups at the vet. They should have regular check ups annually, and more appointments should be made if they need to get important shots.

Make a tablecloth for your cats. Some cats prefer removing their food from the bowl and eating it on the side. This can result in a mess that needs to be cleaned up. An easier way to do that is to either buy a placemat and put it underneath the cat bowl, or to cut a bit of fabric to use as a tablecloth that you can pick up and wash or shake over the garbage can.

When you buy a small kitty for your children, set the boundaries ahead of time. Make sure everyone understands which parts of the house the cat is not allowed in. If you’re planning on keeping your kitty inside full time, make sure your kids know their pet shouldn’t go outdoors. Setting rules in advances ensures understanding.

If possible, always choose canned cat food. Although dry food is usually less expensive, canned food is better for your cat. Your cat will get more water and more vitamins and protein. This will make it easier for your older cats to digest. Talk to the veterinarian prior to making any big changes; but, usually, canned food is best for your cat.

TIP! Make sure your cat has a collar if it goes outside. This can help if your cat becomes lost while wandering in the great outdoors.

It’s important for your cat to get plenty of playtime. Just like playtime is important for other types of pets, the same holds true for your cat, despite whatever their age happens to be. Even older cats love a little play, just not as rough. Make sure you play with your cat at least once a day.

If your cat is pregnant, make sure she has plenty of room to give birth. The kittens will arrive within three or four hours, so try to be patient. If six hours have gone by and you think there are still more kitten inside the cat, take her to a vet immediately.

The foods you eat might not be very healthy for your pet. Common foods that are poisonous to cats include: garlic, grapes, onions and tomatoes. If your cat eats these foods, he may become sick or even die. Even though everyone knows that cats love milk, this can actually cause a cat to have an upset stomach.

TIP! Keeping your cat off of the counter can be difficult. Cats like to climb on things and a counter can look very inviting.

You should never use medications designed for humans on your cat. When your cat has health issues, they should be taken to their vet, who will give them any medication they need. Giving your cat your medication can actually cause your pet serious harm.

You love your cat and want to care for them properly. After reading this article, you should know how to care for your cat. Make the most of the tips here to keep your cat happy and healthy. Give your cat love, and enjoy the love it gives to you.