Cats are really quite magical. Their smarts, affectionate nature and sense of independence make them terrific house pets. But, cat care is not always simple. Keep reading to learn more about proper cat care so that your cat will remain healthy and happy.

Drape Cords

TIP! Cats like to get into all sorts of small spaces. There are ways to make sure that their collar does not get stuck.

Don’t let your cats play with drape cords. Never let your cats play with drape cords, as they could seriously injure themselves. This can definitely hurt them, and it could even kill them. Be sure your drape cords are strongly secured.

Groom your cat. Brushing is a very important component towards taking care of your cat. This will keep your cat’s coat clean. Removing excess hair also reduces shedding and can prevent hairballs. A cat that is well-groomed is one that looks the best at home.

Your cat will want to climb into small spaces. There are ways to make sure that their collar does not get stuck. Breakaway collars are designed to release in these situations. Using this collar will prevent your cat from injuring itself.

TIP! If your cat is female, it is very important that she be spayed when the vet feels she is old enough. Even if she stays inside all the time, she could get out when in heat and end up pregnant.

Be sure you have a vet that your cat sees regularly so it stays healthy. They should go at least once yearly for a check-up, and more often if they need any shots. When the cat seems to be acting abnormally, take it to the vet immediately.

Flea Products

Don’t use dog portions for your cat. They can have very strong and possibly negative reactions to dog products. This definitely applies to flea products. When used on your cat, flea products for dogs can be lethal. Actually, it is best to separate the cat from the dog once the flea problem has been treated.

TIP! If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. Cats can range far from your home and the tag will help them find their way home.

Receiving plenty of positive, loving attention is important for your cat. Your cat will enjoy your company if you pet and play with her. Your cat needs to socialize and get plenty of attention from everyone in your family. This will increase the love that surrounds the family.

Crystals in the urine, an issue many male cats have, can be avoided with the proper food. This problem is painful for the cat and to your wallet, as well. Try to find a cat food that has a low level of magnesium. Be sure to read the ingredient label. Fish products are usually higher in magnesium.

Many times, cat meds can be purchased on the internet for less than they’d cost if you got them from your vet. There may be times when you cannot purchase medication online, such as in an emergency; however, monthly medication, such as flea medicine, can be bought online. For more routine situations, saving 50% by buying online is quite possible.

Cat Owners

If your cat experiences major problems, don’t be afraid to talk to other cat owners. Though you want to handle problems on your own, you may require advice from others who own cats. Use the Internet to share tips with other cat owners and ask your questions or talk with your neighbors, friends or veterinarian.

Brush your cat on a regular basis. It helps with blood flow, and it also moves the natural oils around in the fur. It also loosens hair that is about ready to fall out. This will help to eliminate hairballs, which build in your cat’s stomach and prevents it from grooming itself.

TIP! Cats can have nocturnal tendencies. They are often active at nighttime.

Place the litter box for your cat in an open area. You may want to hide it away. However, the litter box must be kept in a location that is easily accessible for your pet. Cats tend to be finicky, so you’ll want to provide a location that isn’t off-putting to your cat. If the box is placed on a cold floor, place a mat under it.

Make sure your cat has routine check ups and vaccinations to ensure longevity and good health. It is especially important that you get good vet care for kittens so they get all the shots they need. Your cat is a family member, so treat them like anyone else you love in your home.

Litter Box

TIP! It is likely that your feline friend enjoys grooming his fur. If your kitty is a long-haired breed, the result of this might be hairballs.

Relocating the litter box can often help curb a problem with cats that refuse to use it. The best place for a litter box is in a secure, quiet area. Cats feel vulnerable when they’re using it, so they want it to be in a place where they feel safe. Great suggestions include your basement and laundry room.

There are things you can eat that your cat cannot. Some of these include onions, grapes, garlic and green tomatoes. When a cat eats these items, they can get very sick. Milk also often upsets your cat’s stomach.

Don’t have an outdoor cat declawed. The cat is defenseless against other animals, which may lead to injury or possibly death. Indoor cats can be declawed, though. The front claws should be the only ones removed. Don’t have the back claws removed, since cats don’t use them to scratch up your house.

Cats Human

Don’t give cats human medication. Some people incorrectly give cats human medications thinking it will be okay in small doses, but it can kill him or her. If your pet has any issues, take them to a vet for proper pet medication. Pets that have taken human medications face serious injury or worse.

If your cat has frequent hairballs, and extra brushing hasn’t helped, here are some other tips that may help. Put 1 tsp of pumpkin puree in their food. You can also try a teaspoon of water used to pack tuna mixed with the pumpkin. Some cat foods have components, such as fiber, that prevent hairballs.

TIP! Cats like to be up high. For a truly happy cat, provide a safe place for your cat to survey his surroundings.

Did you obtain cat when you did not have a job and you are now returning to work? If so, then your cat is very likely to get bored and lonely. In order to prevent them from becoming too lonely whenever you’re away, consider adopting a second cat.

Unique and magical creatures, cats make terrific house pets, provided that you are willing to take the time to educate yourself on proper cat care. Study these tips carefully. Use this information to take proper care of your cat so that it remains healthy for many years.