Cats are very interesting and loving pets to have. Cats are very independent animals, but they still need you to take good care of them. 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.

Shop at your local pet shelter for your next cat. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. When you adopt a cat from a shelter, you save a life and help keep the cat population under control.

TIP! Taking your cat in for regular check-ups at the veterinarian’s office is part of being a responsible pet owner. Your cat should receive shots regularly to prevent health issues.

It’s crucial that your pet gets checkups from your vet regularly. The vet will be able to provide your cat with needed vaccinations and any medications it requires. Veterinarians also keep tabs on your cat’s overall health and diagnose any problems they find. Try keeping the same vet throughout your cat’s life. This person will be more knowledgeable on your cat’s history.

It can be hard to prevent your cat from jumping on the counter. A cat will naturally want to be high enough to view everything around them. You may be able to battle this issue by giving your cat a high place to chill. Placing a cat tower by the kitchen can keep cats from getting on counters.

Think about getting a microchip implanted in your cat. Even an indoor cat may find a way out of your home. Tags and collars are great, but if a cat escapes them, there’s no guaranteeing they’ll make it home safe and sound. A microchip, on the other hand, is inserted near your cat’s shoulder blades, takes only a second to do, and all of your current contact info can be read through the chip. Almost every vet and shelter has a scanner these days, and they can retrieve your contact information should they find your pet.

Litter Box

Keep your cat’s litter box in the right location. It shouldn’t be put in an area with high traffic and should be far from their food. To help control odors place the litter box in a well ventilated area. Your cat will appreciate it and so will you.

Set boundaries for your children when it comes to having a cat as a pet. Let your kids know where the cat can go. Make sure that your children know if the cat is strictly an indoor cat. It’s important to remind them as often as necessary, and when you plan ahead of time to teach your children, you will less likely to have issues.

TIP! It’s very important to get your cat microchipped. You never know when your cat could get away from you.

You should think again before allowing your cat to go outside. The outside world is very dangerous for cats. There is a chance your cat can contract fleas or perhaps something much worse. Additionally, your cat is likely to be injured by cars or other animals. If you still insist your cat be able to go outside, then do so in the fenced backyard.

Unlike most humans, cats love heights. For very happy cats, give them a safe place where they can look around at their surroundings. If you don’t wish to have a big cat tree inside your house, try a sturdy shelf made of breakables. The cat will especially enjoy it if you put a blanket on top.

Due to their affectionate nature, their self-reliance, and their brains, cats are excellent animal companions. You need to learn more on how you can take care of a cat before you decide to adopt one. Read this article again and again until you have these tips memorized. This will help your cat enjoy a high quality of life.