Cats are downright mysterious by their nature. They can take you or leave you at times. It really can be confusing, but owning a loving cat is truly incredible. These ideas can help with your cat friend.

If your cat goes outside, it is important to have a collar with a tag. A lost cat is much easier to locate if they are properly tagged. The tag should contain at least the cat’s name and your contact information.

TIP! Keep your cat away from your drapery cords. If the cat becomes caught in a loop, they could choke to death.

Don’t allow your cat become bored. Cats need stimulation. Sadly, many cat owners do not understand the importance of this. Bored cats tend to develop emotional and mental disorders that may negatively impact their health. Provide your cats with the toys and space it needs. If you have an indoor cat, provide a kitty gym for them to climb on or a scratching post.

Most cats are very nocturnal. They get very active at night. If your cats are busy keeping you awake early, just close your bedroom door. This will keep them from attacking your toes.

Cats appreciate all the affection you can give. Cats need companionship as much as we do. Your cat needs to socialize and get plenty of attention from everyone in your family. They should feel like a valued family member as well.

TIP! If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. They have tons of amazing cats who desperately need a home.

It is likely that your feline friend enjoys grooming his fur. If the cats hair is too long, this is what causes hairballs. There are foods which help combat this problem. Some food are produced specifically for hairball reduction, which will help.

A tablecloth should be made for your cats. Cat’s will often remove food from their bowl to eat it. This habit means you will end up with cat food on the floor to clean up. Put a placemat under the bowl, or even some fabric so cleaning up is a snap.

If your cat is excessively meowing, try to figure out why. After you have lived with your cat for a while, you will come to know what she wants by her meow. The cat might want something to eat, or just to go outside. When you understand what each type of behavior indicates, you can improve your relationship.

TIP! Ensure that your cat goes to the vet often so that they are healthy. They should have regular check ups annually, and more appointments should be made if they need to get important shots.

Avoid letting your cat go outdoors. It might not be safe for your cat to go outdoors. It takes mere minutes for your cats to pick up fleas, be bitten by a tick or something far worse. Your cat might be injured by people, other animals and even vehicles on the road. If your cat must be an outdoor cat, limit it to your own backyard.

Brush your pet often. This will spread a cat’s oils from their fur and help blood flow from within their skin. It can also get rid of hair that is loose. This can reduce hairballs which can be harmful to a cat and build up in their stomachs.

Your cat needs good play time. Just like playtime is important for other types of pets, the same holds true for your cat, despite whatever their age happens to be. Older cats may not have much energy, but they still like to play. Take time and play with your cat regularly.

TIP! If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. Understand that cats may travel a long distance; therefore, if it gets lost, this tag will assist you and others in finding it.

You should think carefully before getting a long-haired cat. That lovely, silky coat won’t look nearly as good all over your floors as it does on the cat. Don’t get a long haired cat unless you’re prepared to do a little extra cleaning. Long-haired cats also often have hairballs.

If kitty won’t use the litter box, try moving it. Cat’s sometimes just don’t like the location you’ve picked for the box. A basement, laundry room, or another area that doesn’t experience much household traffic is the ideal spot for the litter box.

Your diet isn’t necessarily the best thing for your cat; some foods just aren’t good for them. These foods include grapes, onions green tomatoes and garlic. When a cat eats these items, they can get very sick. Milk can too. It can give your cat stomach pains.

TIP! It’s not easy to keep cats off counters. Cats love being up high so that they can see.

Don’t give a cat medicine that is intended for humans. If the cat is sick, you must take it to the vet. Refrain from giving cats any medication not intended for them.

Try using sticky tape if you own a cat. If your cat is ruining your upholstery, tape can be a good way to stop your cat from doing so. You can find this specific material at your local pet store. If you provide a scratching post along with tape-trapping your furniture, you’ll soon have your cat scratching only where you want it to.

Cats are simple to decipher, but they can be loyal to you if you allow them. Let what you have read here sink in so you can take better care of your furry friend. If you know how to care for them, cats are unique, enjoyable pets.