Similar to people, cats have to eat healthy foods with nutrients. If they don’t, your cat runs the risk of becoming obese or malnourished. Continue reading to learn more about cat care.

You should be bringing your cat to their vet for a check-up regularly. Cats need vaccinations to keep them healthy, and your vet can keep an eye out for any other health issues. Do your best to use the same vet for your cat’s entire life. This way, the vet will be very familiar with your cat and its history.

TIP! Take your cat in for regular vet exams. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up.

If your cat ventures outdoors, it’s key to get your cat a collar which has a contact tag. This can help if your cat becomes lost while wandering in the great outdoors. The tag should contain at least the cat’s name and your contact information.

Microchips are an increasingly popular form of pet protection. Indoor cats can slip out an open door. A tagged collar might help get kitty home, but it can just as easily come off if snagged on a branch. Microchips are very small, approximately as large as a single grain of rice. Although they are small, they can hold your entire contact information. Nearly all veterinarians and shelters now have scanners capable of reading the information on these chips, and since they are under the skin, there is no chance of the chip getting lost.

Anytime you travel with a cat, their ears should be monitored. You may love loud music, bit it might be bothering your cat. Therefore, the volume of your music should be minimized, and turn it off completely if necessary.

TIP! Small places are spots cats love to get into. If they are wearing a collar this can pose a safety risk, in the event that your cat gets stuck.

Cats can be great pets for children, but some younger children may be a bit too rough with cats. Always train your child the proper way to handle a pet. Teach them what are appropriate activities and how to gently touch it. Cats’ bones are more fragile than those of dogs, so they need gentler treatment.

When getting a little kitty for your kid, set boundaries beforehand. Tell your kids which rooms the cat is allowed in. They should know that indoor cats can’t go outside. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.

Do you own a dog and cat? Dogs will eat a cat’s food any time they’re given the chance. Feed your pets in different areas of the house, and monitor them while they eat. This will help prevent any fights that may occur between your animals.

TIP! Spay your female cat. Even if she is an inside cat, you need to spay her because she could get out.

Think twice before leaving a child alone with a kitten. A cat should not be left alone with a child under five years of age. The maturity level isn’t there when it comes to your child. As a kid ages, they can show maturity with handling a little pet.

Cats like to be up high. Designating a high-up area where your cat can hang out and watch everything from will help him to feel comfortable. Placing a shelf or two up high will not take up too much space in your home. Adding a small pillow or blanket to the spot for napping will be very much appreciated too.

You can tap fellow cat owners for advice if you’re having problems with your pet. Although you may want to go it alone, it can be helpful to seek advice from other people that have experience owning cats. You can find online cat forums to ask questions, or you can speak with your vet.

Litter Box

You cannot teach a cat to use a litter box. They do this by nature and don’t need to be taught. While many pet owners try to introduce their cats to a litter box by rubbing their front paws in the sand, this can sometimes traumatize your furry friend.

A healthy diet is vital when it comes to your cat’s health. When your cat is not properly cared for, its life span decreases significantly. Make sure they are getting all the nutrients they require to live a healthy life.