Is there any pet more remarkable and intriguing than a cat? Cats are so independent, which works out great for you if you’re not home all the time. Use the things that this article will teach you, and you’re going to have a cat that is happy and healthy throughout its life.

Keep your cat away from your drapery cords. Cats can potentially strangle themselves on these cords so it is important to protect your cat from this potential danger. This accident could trap or injure your cat, or even be fatal. To prevent this from happening, keep any drape cords pinned away from any eyes.

TIP! If you’re thinking of getting a cat for a pet, you should look to the local shelter. They have tons of amazing cats who desperately need a home.

Check with your shelter before you purchase a cat. Shelters have lots of great cats available, and your adoption fee often covers key veterinary services. When a cat is adopted from an animal shelter it saves its life and it helps control the cat population.

Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. Cats enjoy traveling far away, so a tag can help your cat get back home when lost. The tag should contain the pet’s name, your phone number and your name as well.

Keep your cat from having a shocking experience by spraying electrical cords with bitter apple. If your cat happens to be a champion cord-chewer, you’ll need to use cord covers to protect your cords. You can do this by bundling them and tucking them in the cardboard rolls that are used for paper towels. All thin cords should be put up when you’re not using them.

TIP! Make sure your cat is always well groomed. Cats require frequent brushing or combing.

Cats are great pets, but little ones may not understand that they are fragile. It is important that you teach children how to properly interact with a new cat. Give them examples of how to be gentle with it and what should and should not be done. Because cats are more delicate than dogs, they need to be handled more carefully.

Try figuring out why the cat is purring. Once you become familiar with your cat and its needs, it will become easier to determine what he needs when he meows. She could be signaling that she is hungry, or she might want to go outside. Look for the cues and you’ll be much more in tune with your pet.

Consider all the options before you let your cat be an outdoors cat. It is dangerous in today’s society. Your cat may get fleas or have other problems. Cars, people, or animals could hurt your beloved pet. If your cat must go outside, try to confine them to the backyard.

TIP! Deter your cat from chewing on inappropriate things by using bitter apple. If your cat plays with cords, put them up and out of the way, or you can hide them in old paper towel rolls.

Are you the owner of both a dog and cat? Dogs will always try to eat a cat’s food. You should keep your cat food away from the dog. In doing so, you prevent spats and spitting over competition for water.

Litter Box

Make sure that you do not instruct your cat on using the litter box. This will be something that the cat does on its own and it usually is not learned fro another. Many people think rubbing a cat’s paws in litter will teach them to use the litter box, but it might actually traumatize them.

TIP! Being nocturnal is quite normal for cats. They get very active at night.

If your cat relieves itself somewhere other than its litter box, it shouldn’t be punished. If your cat makes a mess, it’s probably because their litter box is not properly cared for. If you punish the cat, it may shy away from you at future times.

Keep a collar with ID on your cat. Even a cat you plan on always staying indoors should have identification. Cats are curious by nature, and an open window or door invites exploration. The tag should have your name and address and also your vet’s. Include medical issues if appropriate.

If you are bringing home a new cat, make sure to give him time to adjust to your current cat. It usually takes about three weeks. They may seem like they’re fighting all the time. Eventually they will grow accustomed to it and start tolerating or even enjoying each other’s company.

TIP! Though a veterinarian will almost always have a supply of medications that your cat needs, it can be more cost-effective to purchase them from online venues. In emergency situations, buying online may not be a good option.

Think about the extra work before buying a long-haired cat. Shedding is a major issue that you will have to face. Don’t adopt a cat with long fur unless you’re sure you can handle the extra cleaning. It should also be noted that long haired cats are much more susceptible to hairballs.

Cats have an extremely sensitive sense of smell which makes it difficult to change anything in their environment without their knowing about it. This can cause a problem when trying to introduce a new bed, scratching post, or food dish. The cat may be leery of the new additions at first. As the item becomes a part of your home’s natural smell, your cat will become more comfortable with it.

Be aware of any panting. Dogs normally do pant. Cats often pant when they are anxious or overheated, but this may also signal a more serious issue. Talk to a vet right away when panting persists.

Consider your cat if you are going to make a schedule change. You can avoid both boredom and loneliness by getting another cat.

Trips to the vet are necessary, however those bills can pile up quick. You can save yourself some money by ordering your cats medications online. Some companies actually deliver medications straight to your home. This will save you both time and effort.

Even if you believe it would be good to buy a child a pet as a holiday gift, it may be too busy a time for your cat to get the attention it needs. Get a pet that truly suits your family by bringing your children along for the selection process.

TIP! Do you own both a dog and a cat? Most dogs will not hesitate before munching on your cat’s food. Because of this, you should make the place that your cat food is in higher up so that the dog cannot reach it.

Cat are great pets due to their intelligence and independent attitude. As a responsible cat owner, however, you must educate yourself on the proper way to care for your kitty. This article has provided you with a great base of information. Do this to ensure your cat has an enjoyable life.