Humans and cats have been beloved companions for many centuries. These lovable animals have been showcased in films, book and plays. So, it’s easy to understand why cats think they rule the world. The following tips will help you care for, and live successfully with, your cat.

Keep your cat away from your drapery cords. Never let your cats play with drape cords, as they could seriously injure themselves. This could seriously injure or even kill them. Make sure drapery cords are kept back to avoid this.

TIP! Shop at your local pet shelter for your next cat. Sometimes, you may find the cat of your dreams at a shelter.

Look a local animal shelters for cats. Shelters have great pets available for adoption, and the fee isn’t that high. By choosing a cat from an animal shelter, you can do your part to help with overpopulation. Also, you become a lifesaver!

Cats love to squeeze into tiny spots. Cats that wear collars are at risk should they become stuck somewhere cramped. Collars designed to release when sufficient force is applied (“breakaway” collars) are a great idea. This can help to save a couple of your cat’s nine lives.

Heated tiles are great to put under a cat bed, especially for the comfort of aging felines. Use a terra cotta tile to help relieve your cat’s aches and pains; put it in the oven on low heat – 200 degrees or so – for 15 minutes. Wrap it up in a towel and place it under where your cat sleeps. If you want, change it now and then so the warmth continues.

Electrical Cords

Keep your cat from having a shocking experience by spraying electrical cords with bitter apple. Cords should be covered, especially if your cat tends to chew on them. You can do this by bundling them and tucking them in the cardboard rolls that are used for paper towels. If you have electrical cords laying out that are not being used, put them away as cats can play with them and then move on to live electrical cords.

Kitty claws can be quite destructive to fabric and furnishings. If your couch is starting to look like it’s been put through a shredder, it’s time to invest in a nice scratching post or cat tower. Entice them to scratch those items rather than your belongings. Eventually it will cause you less of a headache.

TIP! Never use any product intended for dogs on a cat. If you try to use products meant for dogs, it can make your cat sick, or even kill him.

Your cat can take lots of time to groom themselves to what they consider “perfect.” However, if it has a lot of hair, hairballs can occur. If your cat needs assistance with this problem, consider a special diet. There are foods that are made to reduce the frequency of hairballs. It’s a smart move for your cat and your sanity.

Cats are usually great for kids, but smaller kids may be too rough with them. You need to show your children how the cat should be treated. Show them how to gently pick kitty up and what kinds of activities are appropriate. Cat’s bones aren’t quite as strong as dogs, so they must be treated gingerly.

Do all you can to figure out what’s causing your cat to meow. You need to learn what their meows mean. Your cat could be hungry or thirsty, or it may want to leave the house. When you understand what each type of behavior indicates, you can improve your relationship.

TIP! The claws of a cat can really destroy parts of your house and furniture. If your couch is starting to look like it’s been put through a shredder, it’s time to invest in a nice scratching post or cat tower.

Cats love being up high. Make sure your cat has a safe place to play. If you can’t afford a cat tree, give the cat an empty shelf of his own. Providing a blanket or bed for your cat is an extra treat for them.

Mix up the food you feed your cat to avoid them becoming a picky eater. If you feed your cat the same food all the time, your cat will likely be uninterested any any other brand or flavor.

You should think carefully before getting a long-haired cat. There is no denying that long-haired cats are beautiful, but that beautiful coat takes a lot of work and also means a lot of shedding. You must be willing to spend more time cleaning your home. Not to mention cats that have long hair are more prone to getting issues with hairballs.

Excellent Companion

A cat usually believes it is in charge of your house. If you use these tips, you can teach your cat who is really in charge of the home. There’s no denying that your cat can be an excellent companion. By offering love and care, you can be an excellent companion, too!