Cats are curious creatures. They can take you or leave you at times. This may seem confusing at times, but a purring cat sitting on your lap is one of the best things you can experience. Check out these tips to help you better understand and help your furry little friend.

A cat’s claws can cause lots of damage to your home. Buy a scratching post if you need to protect the furniture in your home. Encourage them to scratch that instead. Your cat will eventually understand they should only use the post or tower for scratching.

TIP! Ensure that you groom your cat regularly and properly. They need to be brushed every day.

You may want to have a microchip implanted in your cat. Even indoor cats may get out of your home at some point. 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. Your name and the best way to contact you can be encoded on the chip, which is tiny. Most shelters and veterinarians can scan your pet to read the information on the chip, and the chip cannot be lost since it is beneath the skin.

Do not allow your cat to stay bored all of the time. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. The unfortunate thing is that many owners of cats don’t realize this. Bored cats will quickly wreck your home or become obese. Give them exercise space and a lot of toys. A scratching post is a valuable toy to put in your home.

If you need cat medication, consider searching online instead of using your veterinarian in order to find a better deal. In an emergency, however, this might not be possible. However, if you buy meds for your cat on a regular basis, you can save huge amounts by getting medication via the Internet.

TIP! Make sure you keep all the recommended appointments with your cat’s veterinarian. Cats need vaccinations to keep them healthy, and your vet can keep an eye out for any other health issues.

You need to establish some boundaries if you are getting a cat for your children. Make sure your kids know where the cat can be. They should know that indoor cats can’t go outside. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.

Cats feel safest in an elevated location. Allow them the space they need to feel safe while checking their world out. If you don’t wish to have a big cat tree inside your house, try a sturdy shelf made of breakables. Adding a small pillow or blanket to the spot for napping will be very much appreciated too.

If your cat relieves itself somewhere other than its litter box, it shouldn’t be punished. They’re doing it because the box is too dirty, or they may be sick. Punishing your cat may cause him to become afraid of you or their litter box.

TIP! If your cat is a female, it needs to be spayed when it reaches the appropriate age. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! Your best bet is to have your female cat spayed.

It would be a good idea for your cat to get used to a pet carrier. You have to take a different approach to training a cat rather than a dog. Cats learn well when they feel encouraged. Inside the carrier, put a favorite toy and blanket. Leave it open in an area the cat will see. Over time, the cat will feel comfortable and go inside the carrier. Let it happen naturally or with only mild coaxing. Do not get angry. It’s a much easier way to get the cat in.

Feed your cat a few different varieties of food. This can help him not get too finicky. If you feed them only one type of food, they may refuse to eat anything else. However, stick with the same brand, and just vary the flavors because cats can have stomach problems if you vary the food too much.

Don’t toss your cat’s scratching post just because it’s starting to look haggard. The cats loves it the most in this condition. If you replace it with something new, your pet might seek out something a little more worn to scratch – like your furniture.

TIP! Spray bitter apple on electrical cords to keep cats away from them. You can also cover your cords under a rug or tape them to walls.

Every cat loves to have lots of play time. All animals of all ages need to play and a cat is no different. While older cats have less energy than their younger counterparts, they can still play a little. Take the time to play and have a little fun with your kitty.

Cat Sheds

Is there cat hair everywhere? When a cat sheds a lot, brushing is very important. If your cat sheds a lot, you need to brush it more often. This will help to prevent tangling and matting.

TIP! Think about putting a microchip in your pet. Even though a cat may live inside, you never know if it will run out the door to escape.

Cats may be somewhat mysterious, but they are able to be loyal friends to you. The tips here will help you keep them that way. Having cats can be a great thing for anyone, and when you care for them properly, a happy cat is a great friend.