If you use proper care techniques, cats can be truly delightful pets. If you own a cat, you need to educate yourself about tips and information to make sure your cat lives happily. Read these tips to be the best cat owner you can be.

You never want to leave the cords of your drapes dangling down. Do not let your cat play with these. If the cords are in loops and the cat jumps into them or plays with them, they could possibly get them caught around their neck. This could cause injury or death. Pin back drape cords to avoid this type of issue.

TIP! Keep your cat away from your drapery cords. Do not allow your cat to play with these.

Ensure that you groom your cat regularly and properly. Cats should have regular combings. This helps them keep their precious coat properly clean at all times. It can cut down on shedding and spitting up hairballs, too. Regularly grooming your cat will help keep it and your home looking great.

It’s crucial that your pet gets checkups from your vet regularly. Cats need special shots to keep them from getting sick, and the veterinarian will check your cats overall health. For the most consistent pet care, choose one veterinarian and stick with them. This one vet will be aware of the cat’s history.

If your cat is a female, you’ll want to spay her once she reaches the proper age. This is true even if you think your cat is indoors only. One escape can lead to a lot of small kittens around! Your best bet is to have your female cat spayed.

TIP! If you want to have the love of a cat, get one from a shelter. Shelters have a lot of cats in them and you can get one adopted for a small fee.

If your cat is outdoors, it needs to have a tagged collar. Tags can save you a lot of trouble if your cat gets lost. At the very least, you should include your contact info and the name of your cat on the tag.

Litter Box

Your kitty’s litter box requires strategic placement. You shouldn’t keep it near your pet’s food, and you shouldn’t keep it in an area people walk through a lot. Also be sure that the cat litter area is ventilated so the smell doesn’t linger. Your cat is certain to appreciate a litter box that is put into a good location.

TIP! Make sure that your cat is well groomed. Remember to brush your cat’s fur and comb it regularly.

Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. Don’t force your cat into the box or you will traumatize them.

Be sure to carrier train your cat. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Positive reinforcement is a better training tool for cats. Place a beloved blanket or item inside the carrier and let it stay open near the cat’s usual haunts. Eventually, the cat will go into the carrier naturally and feel comfortable. This takes the hassle out of traveling with your cat in its carrier.

Canned food is an excellent choice for cats. Dry food is less expensive, but there are added benefits to be had in canned cat food. The water content is higher, and there is more protein and fat in the canned food. For aging cats, it is also easier to chew. Go ahead and talk to your vet, but canned food is favorable for cats.

TIP! If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. Put a square foot of terra cotta tile into your oven heated to 200 degrees.

You want your cat to be wearing a collar with ID tags on a full-time basis. Even if it’s an indoor cat, this is important. Cats are curious creatures and an open door or window is likely to be explored. Make sure the collars have tags with your contact information and your veterinarian’s information as well. This is very critical if your feline has specific medical issues.

Play is an essential element of a cat’s daily life. In fact, play is a common activity for all mammals, including people and cats, no matter their age. While older cats have less energy than their younger counterparts, they can still play a little. Take time and play with your cat regularly.

You can deter cat scratching with something as simple as tape. A bit of sticky tape on your cat’s favorite scratching spot can quickly make the act less enjoyable for them. Certain pet stores even sell this type of tape for this reason. When your cat sticks to the couch, he’ll learn his lesson.

TIP! Spritz a little bitter apple on electrical cords to protect your cats. If your cat happens to be a champion cord-chewer, you’ll need to use cord covers to protect your cords.

When properly cared for, cats are wonderful pets. If you own a cat, feel free to read this piece over so you can absorb these great tips. With proper care, your cat will live a healthy and vibrant life.