Would you save an animal if you could? Consider all the homeless cats in shelters or feral colonies that are in desperate need of homes. If you have always wanted to know how to adopt a cat, this article can help you.

Regular visits to the vet will preserve your cat’s health. They should have regular check ups annually, and more appointments should be made if they need to get important shots. Cats should go to a vet immediately if they have any conditions, health problems, or injuries that need to be tended to right away.

Litter Box

When it comes to litter boxes, placement is everything. A cat’s litter box should be in a quiet spot in the house, away from where your cat eats. To help control odors place the litter box in a well ventilated area. Your cat and you will appreciate it.

Give your cat plenty of love and affection. They want the same level of companionship that they give to you as their owner. Like many people, cats need to socialize with people so that they feel like they are an important part of their family’s lives. They need to feel as though they are an important part of the family, as well.

TIP! The claws of a cat can really destroy parts of your house and furniture. If you find your cat tearing up things around your home, buy a scratching post or cat tower.

Prevent crystals from forming in the urine of male cats with the right diet. Passing stones or crystals hurts and can cost you a ton in vet bills if they don’t come out naturally. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Be sure to read the ingredient label. Fish products are usually higher in magnesium.

When you buy a small kitty for your children, set the boundaries ahead of time. Explain where the cat is and isn’t allowed. If you’re raising an indoor cat, inform your kids that the cat can’t go outside. Setting rules in advances ensures understanding.

Reconsider outside time for your cat. There are many dangers to your cat outside. They may acquire fleas or much worse things. Cats can also be hunted by other animals, stolen or hit by passing vehicles. If you need to let your cat out of the house, be sure it’s in a safe place.

TIP! Cats love to play on kitchen counters, and it can be hard to break them of the habit. They love to be able to look around from up high.

Be careful if you leave a kitten with a young child. Under five, the child needs to be watched. Kids of this age aren’t old enough to know how dangerous a cat can be. When children get a little older, they develop the skills needed to be around small animals.

Brush your cat regularly. This will help spread the natural oils within their fur while stimulating their skin’s blood flow. You will also decrease the amount of fur throughout your home. This prevents hairballs, which can cause choking, and builds up in the cat’s stomach from self grooming.

Every cat loves to have lots of play time. Just like playtime is important for other types of pets, the same holds true for your cat, despite whatever their age happens to be. Though older cats don’t have as much energy, they still need some play. Make an effort to have playtime with your cat regularly.

TIP! Be careful as small kids may treat kittens too roughly. Make sure your kids understand how cats should be handled.

Take notice if and when your cat ever stops conducting their business in their litter box. Health problems may be causing your cat to urinate in places other than their litter box. A variety of infections and kidney disease can cause your cat to stay away from the box when they suddenly associate it with pain due to their medical condition. Speak with your vet if your pet stops using the litter box.

If you are having problems getting the cat to use the litter box, move it. A cat knows that when it’s going to the bathroom it’s in a vulnerable situation, so you should make sure the box is in a calm, secure location. Great suggestions include your basement and laundry room.

Your cat should remain indoors and near your home. Cats trained to live inside instead of outside live longer according to certain studies. Outdoor cats can be attacked by other animals and exposed to many harmful influences. Play with your cat daily to give it adequate exercise.

TIP! Do you have both a dog and a cat? Most dogs will not hesitate before munching on your cat’s food. Because of this, you should keep your cat’s food in a high spot that your dog won’t be able to reach.

Don’t give your cat medicine that is meant for humans. A visit to the veterinarian will ensure that your pet receives the proper medication. Giving your cat your medication can actually cause your pet serious harm.

If the cat has constant hairballs and brushing more isn’t helping, this may help. You can try blending a spoon of pumpkin into her food. You may also use some tuna packing water to mix with your pumpkin. In addition, certain cat foods contain ingredients that are made to prevent hairballs, such as fiber. This may help resolve the issue.

Health Issues

TIP! Don’t leave a kitten with small kids. Kids under five should not be left alone with a pet.

Overfeeding your cat can result in serious health issues as he ages. Your cat could become obese and develop some health issues. Keep your cat eating healthy and consistent at all times.

Cats can get sick, too. You see your cat each day, so you should develop an intuition about when it is sick. If so, be sure and make an appointment with your vet. A seemingly minor illness might really be something far more serious.

If your area is prone to rabies outbreaks, fleas, or even fungus, it is probably best to keep your cat from going outdoors. While it is possible to be exposed to certain things in the house, the cat is less likely to come into contact with them if he doesn’t go outside.

TIP! Get your cat used to a carrier. You cannot train a cat the same way you train a dog because they react differently to punishment.

Adopting a needy cat is something to be proud of. You are offering your love and your home to an animal desperately in need of it. This will most certainly cause a strong bond to form, lasting even longer than the animal is alive. When you love your cat, it will love you back.