There is a lot that goes into owning a cat. That said, it isn’t like grooming a cat. You need to pay attention to your cat. Consider this article when it is time to groom your feline friend.

Properly groom your cat. You can regularly brush or comb your cat. This can keep them clean. It can cut down on shedding and spitting up hairballs, too. Keeping a cat well groomed basically helps keep them looking their best, along with your home.

TIP! If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. It does not matter if you an indoor cat; if she gets out when in heat, you can end up with many kittens.

Female cats need to be spayed as soon as they reach the proper age. Even if she is an inside cat, you need to spay her because she could get out. Spaying your cat is the best way to prevent this from happening.

Don’t use dog portions for your cat. They can have very strong and possibly negative reactions to dog products. This particularly applies to flea products. These products can be fatal for your cat. In fact, your cat should be kept away from your dog for several hours after the dog has been treated for fleas.

Deter cats from shocking themselves on electrical wires by spraying them with bitter apple. Keep your cords covered if you feel like your cat is hellbent on chewing them. An inexpensive way to hide electrical cords is to thread them through used paper towel rolls. Cats are drawn to wires and cords, so you should keep them out of sight and out of mind if they are not being used.

Litter Box

Pick the right location for your cat’s litter box. The litter box should not be kept in an area with a lot of traffic. In addition, it does not need to be near the cat’s food. It is also advisable to keep the litter box area ventilated to control odor. This will make you and your cat happy.

Cats can be great pets for children, but some younger children may be a bit too rough with cats. Spend time instructing your children on cat care. Show them how to gently pick kitty up and what kinds of activities are appropriate. Feline bones are weaker than those of many other pets, so they must be handled with care.

TIP! Do not isolate the litter box in a distant place. The box should be out of the high traffic areas and a good distance from where your cat eats.

Before you consider buying a kitten for your children, make sure clear boundaries are set before you bring the kitten home. Let your children know which areas of the house are off-limits for the cat. It’s also important to let them know that outside doors must be kept closed so that the cat doesn’t escape. Knowing the rules ahead will help your child understand.

Don’t toss your cat’s scratching post just because it’s starting to look haggard. The cats loves it the most in this condition. Even if you throw it away and buy a new one, your cat may opt for tearing up your upholstery instead.

Use canned food for your cat. Dry food may cost less, but canned food has more benefits. The water content is higher, and there is more protein and fat in the canned food. For older cats, canned food chew easier. You should listen to what your vet recommends, though.

TIP! Check prices online for your cat’s medication to see if they are cheaper than at your vet’s office. You can’t always get it online.

If you want to buy a second cat, prepare for some time where the cats will be familiarizing themselves with each other. They may swat at each other or hiss; that’s nothing to be concerned about. Cats usually learn to enjoy having a companion or at least put up with another one in their home.

Put a collar on the cat that lists your name, address, and phone number on it. Even a house cat may get outside. If your cat does get out, make sure that it can get home.

Keep products containing phenol away from your cat. The chemical is most often found in pine cleaners. This smell is very offensive to cats, and prolonged exposure can even damage their liver.

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. Giving your pet medication that was meant for you can hurt them pretty seriously and it may even cause death.

Your cat has a remarkable sense of smell, much better than humans. They detect subtle changes in their environment. This can lead to issues when you introduce something new, such as a new toy, bed, or food dish. Don’t be upset if the cat does not take to these items immediately. You cat will adjust as the smells of the new items as they become a regular part of his daily routine.

TIP! While a torn up scratching post might look unattractive, do not get rid of it. While it doesn’t appear clean and new, your cat probably thinks otherwise.

If your schedule has changed recently, leaving your cat alone for long periods of time, you may find that your cat will seem lonely or lethargic. Provide them with something to do while you’re gone, or consider adopting another cat.

Try to feed your cat dry food as much as possible. Kittens need wet food more than adult cats because it’s easier to chew. As they get older and get adult teeth, they will have stronger teeth by eating dry food. You can also try mixing dry and wet food until you get the consistency your cat prefers.

Vets are important, but the bills can be rough! You can save a great deal of money by filling your cat’s prescriptions online. Some companies deliver right to your door. This will save you both time and effort.

TIP! You should think carefully before getting a long-haired cat. While long, silky hair is beautiful on a cat, the same fur appears far less beautiful covering your floor, dark clothing, and furniture.

Once you have taken great care of your cat, it can be a better pet. It is your responsibility to make sure your cat looks (and actually is!) healthy. Any time you spend improving the health and happiness of your cat will make you a hero. Utilize this article to ensure your cat remains properly groomed.