You need to give your cat the care and attention it needs. Grooming a cat is different from grooming other pets. A little extra care and attention is needed to keep them looking good. Keep reading for some useful cat grooming tips.

Drape Cords

TIP! 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.

Drape cords should be kept distant from cats. The cats will start playing with the cords and they can easily wrap around their necks. This may harm or kill them. Therefore, ensure that drape cords are pinned away from your cat’s reach.

If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. Allow a terra cotta tile to heat in an oven for 15 minutes at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover with a small blanket or towel, then place it beneath your pet’s bed. If necessary, change this out every few hours.

Take your cat to the vet every year. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due. Cats should see a vet right away if any health problems or injuries needing treatment occur.

TIP! If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. Even if you have an indoor female cat, if it escapes when it’s in heat it could get you a bunch of kittens you weren’t planning on having.

Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. They can have very strong and possibly negative reactions to dog products. This warning applies to products for getting rid of fleas. Your cat may die if you use dog flea products on it. Keep them separated by at least one door for a few hours after treatment.

Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. Tags can save you a lot of trouble if your cat gets lost. Be sure that the pet’s name and also your home number are on the tag.

Get a microchip for your cat. Indoor cats could run out your door or jump out the window. A collar with tags increases your chances of getting your cat back if it gets lost but it can also be a risk, for instance if it gets snagged in some branches. You can use a microchip instead; you can store your contact information in the chip and it will not bother your cat. They are impossible for your pet to lose, and most vets and shelters have equipment that can read these chips.

Litter Box

Do not isolate the litter box in a distant place. Place the litter box away from high traffic areas. Additionally, the litter box should be placed away from your cat’s food and water. Also make sure the area is well ventilated to keep the smell to a minimum. Both your cat and you will appreciate this.

Use a tablecloth underneath your cat’s dish. Often cats prefer moving food from a bowl onto the floor to eat. This may make a big mess that you need to clean up. Something as simple as a place mat can help make cleanup easier.

TIP! Your cat needs lots of affection and love. Cats provide warmth and affection, and they also require the same from you.

Don’t get mad at your cat if it urinates outside the litter box. They’re doing it because the box is too dirty, or they may be sick. If you punish your cat for this, it will fear you later in the future.

Your cat should always wear a collar and ID tag. This is crucial even if the cat lives inside. Cats are endlessly curious and may head out an open door or window. You should use a tag with your contact information and the address of your veterinarian. This is also essential if they have specific medical needs.

Frequent or misdirected urination may warrant a trip to your vet’s office. Cats often do such things when suffering from urinary tract infections or other sorts of health issues. A quick course of antibiotics can head off dangerous complications if you get your cat diagnosed and treated early enough.

TIP! If you’re taking kitty on a road trip, don’t play loud music. Cats tend to prefer gentle sounds during the day.

It is important for a cat to have play time. As a matter of fact, exercise is crucial for all animals. Even older cats love a little play, just not as rough. Take the time to play and have a little fun with your kitty.

Be mindful of where you place the litter box. You are surely tempted to put it where the smell will affect your surroundings the least. Make sure that your cat can get to its litter box very easily. You want your cat to feel comfortable using their litter box. If the littler box is on cold, hard floor, try placing a rug beneath it.

Take notice if and when your cat ever stops conducting their business in their litter box. If your cat refuses to use its litter box, there may be an underlying health concern. Infections and problems with the kidneys and bladder may be the culprit. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.

TIP! Be cautious when leaving a kitten with children. Particularly if the children are younger than five, they need supervision.

A well-cared-for cat is a happy cat. It’s up to you to tend to your cat’s needs and take the necessary steps to keep it healthy. Whatever grooming you do will be appreciate by the cat. These tips can be used to make your cat happy.