Does a cat reside in your home? If you are, then you consider your cat precious. Cats need a lot of care and love. Thankfully, you can give your cat all he needs. Look at the following piece for tips on properly caring for your cat.

Don’t let your cats play with drape cords. Keep the cat away from these cords as they tend to form loops when the cat is playing around, and it could accidentally go around their neck and strangle them. This could lead to a severe injury or even death. Pin back drape cords to avoid this type of issue.

TIP! Visit your local shelter if you’re thinking about getting a cat. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering.

Think about having a microchip inserted in your cat. Even cats that live their lives entirely indoors can suddenly escape out a window or door. Although collars and tags are beneficial, some cats may even wiggle out of them. Microchips are minuscule, but can hold all the essential information about your cat and its hope. They are impossible for your pet to lose, and most vets and shelters have equipment that can read these chips.

Litter Box

Your kitty’s litter box requires strategic placement. Never put the box near your cat’s food, and pick a quiet place away from areas that are heavily used. In addition, you should ensure you place the litter box in a well-ventilated area to minimize the smell. Your cat is certain to appreciate a litter box that is put into a good location.

TIP! To help your aging cat feel cozy, place a warmed tile under his bed. Just heat a one-foot square terra cotta tile in your oven at about 200 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

Do not punish your cat if they make a mess in the area outside of the litter box. If your cat makes a mess, it’s probably because their litter box is not properly cared for. If the cat is punished for this, they may become afraid of being around you.

Reduce the chances of raising a finicky cat by feeding them several brands of food while they are young. By feeding the cat the same kind of food over and over again, they become used to that specific food. Good luck getting it to try something new!

Drinking Fountain

TIP! Don’t let your cat’s days pass without stimulation and excitement! They need exercise and they get it through play. But many cat owners ignore that need.

Get your cat a drinking fountain. In the wild, cats prefer running water to drink from, and they do in the home as well. Your cat, if its like most, will really respond to this running water. Cats will often drink from a running sink and actually prefer it over the water in their bowl. A drinking fountain designed for your cat is the ideal solution to keep the cat happy.

Your cat should always wear a collar and ID tag. Even an indoor pet should have this. Cats can slip out a door in a flash. 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.

Pay attention if your cat suddenly stops using the litter box properly. It may be the sign of an underlying medical issue. For instance, it may be a sign the cat has a problem with its urinary tract. It could be the sign of other issues as well. Antibiotics will often do the trick if it is an infection.

TIP! The litter box for your cat needs to be kept in a good place. Don’t put it where the cat can’t reach it or near their food.

If you desire a long-haired cat, it’s best to know what kind of care is involved before you do so. Long-haired cats are beautiful animals, but keep in mind that they will shed everywhere in your home. Only choose a cat with long hair if you can clean up after it consistently. More, and longer hair, usually means more hairballs too.

Taking your cat to the vet regularly to get proper vaccinations and check-ups will ensure that your pet enjoys a long and healthy life with you. Immunizations can prevent your cat from attaining viruses or diseases. You have made your cat a family member, and you have to treat your cat accordingly.

If your cat is refusing to use his litter box, you should try putting it in a different location. Whenever a cat is using the restroom, it feels vulnerable; therefore, the litter box needs to be kept in a safe and quiet location. Basements, laundry rooms and other quiet spots are best.

TIP! If you’re traveling with your cat, take care to remember their ears. While you may like to crank up the stereo when you go cruising, your pet probably prefers you keep the volume down.

Use a cat collar that gives name, address, and phone number info. Even if you have a house cat, there is a chance that he or she may get out. When your cat gets outside unexpectedly, it’s your responsibility to enable others to help your cat find their way home again.

Don’t ever let your declawed cat outdoors. The cat won’t be able to fight back if other animals attack it and that could get it hurt or killed. Indoor cats can be declawed, though. Remove only the front claws. Leaving the back claws are important so that your cat can scratch themselves.

You love your cat and want to know how to care of it. This article gives you the techniques necessary to do so. Use the tips from this article to ensure your cat is happy and healthy. Your cat will love you if you love him.