Are you a cat owner? If you are a cat owner, than you know just how special cats are. A cat is a creature that needs a lot of love and care. This is something that you can provide to them. Read this article for some great ideas on how to take care of your cat.

If you’re thinking of getting a cat for a pet, you should look to the local shelter. Shelters all over the country are crowded with marvelous cats, and most provide veterinarian care with the adoption fee. When adopting a shelter cat, you’re saving a life and aiding in controlling the cat population.

TIP! Keep your drape cords away from your cats. If the cat becomes caught in a loop, they could choke to death.

Take your cat in for regular vet exams. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up. Always use the same veterinarian if possible. This person will be more knowledgeable on your cat’s history.

Do not use dog products on your cat. Cats can have strong negative reactions to a product that is formulated for a dog. One product in particular to pay close attention to is any remedy for fleas and ticks. Flea products meant for dogs can seriously harm or kill a cat. In fact, your cat should be kept away from your dog for several hours after the dog has been treated for fleas.

Consider having your cat fitted with a microchip. Even cats that live their lives entirely indoors can suddenly escape out a window or door. Tags and collars are great, but if a cat escapes them, there’s no guaranteeing they’ll make it home safe and sound. Microchips are tiny and contain all your contact information. These days, pretty much all shelters and vet offices have scanners that can read these chips, and because they’re beneath your pet’s skin, they won’t ever get lost.

TIP! Make sure your cat is always well groomed. Regular combing and brushing is usually all that is required.

Being nocturnal is quite normal for cats. This means that they will be the most active at night time. Close the door to prevent the noise from getting to you. This way, they can’t disturb you while you sleep.

Cats appreciate all the affection you can give. They usually offer us warm companionship, and they require the same. Without love, cats may not socialize with your family. They want to feel like a valuable, happy family member, too.

Though a veterinarian will almost always have a supply of medications that your cat needs, it can be more cost-effective to purchase them from online venues. In some cases you may not be able to buy online, in the case of emergencies, for instance. But if you have to regularly buy pet medicine, you can save 50% or more on some medicines by buying online.

TIP! Cats can really scratch up your home. If you have problems with a cat that shreds furniture, invest in a durable scratching post.

Try figuring out why the cat is purring. The more time you spend with your cat, the better you’ll understand what its meows mean. She may be hungry, or she may want you to let her outside. By listening to your cat, it will be easier to know what they want.

You should talk to other pet owners if you have an issue with yours. Although you may feel like you don’t need help, other owners may be able to give you good advice. Your local veterinarian can be a valuable source of information, but there is also help available online by joining user forums geared toward cat owners.

Vary your cat’s diet just a tiny bit to keep them from being picky. If your cat only eats one brand of cat food from the beginning, he will probably not like any other brand.

TIP! Cats frequently groom themselves. When the cat’s hair is longer, this could lead to hairballs.

If adding an additional cat to your home, give the cats a couple of weeks to get comfortable with each other. They might have conflict, hide from each other or swat one another. But, eventually, they will get used to the idea, and begin to tolerate, and even enjoy, each other’s company.

Long haired cats take extra grooming time, so think about that before choosing one. Silky, long hair can be stunning, but that fur won’t look as pretty when it’s on your sofa, clothes, and carpet. Unless you are prepared to do more cleaning, don’t buy a long haired cat. Long-haired cats are also more prone to hairballs.

There are certain foods that you might eat everyday that are not healthy for your cat. Common foods that are poisonous to cats include: garlic, grapes, onions and tomatoes. These foods are healthy for humans, but they can make cats very sick. Milk can also upset your cats’ stomach.

TIP! If you have to travel with a cat you should remember their ears. You may be tempted to blast your favorite songs at top volume.

Do not use cleaning supplies with phenol in them if you have a cat. This chemical is often in Lysol and certain other regular household cleaners. The smell is pretty offensive to cats, and prolonged exposure can lead to liver damage.

Don’t send a declawed cat outdoors for long periods of time. Without claws, your cat is essentially defenseless against other animals. This is a dangerous situation for the cat. Indoor cats can be declawed, though. Only take out the front claws. Leave the back claws, as these do not scratch your floors or furniture.

You love your cat and want to know how to care of it. After reading this article, you should have a good foundation of knowledge on how to care for your pet. Your cat should be a beloved part of the family that you give your best love and care to. If you love your kitty, he will certainly love you in return.