A cat is member of the family just like anyone else. You have to keep them from becoming infested with bugs. Your cat’s health will be put in danger by these parasites. There are many more great tips below, so read on.

Make sure that your cat is well groomed. Just like dogs, cats require regular brushing and de-tangling. If you do this frequently you’ll be able to help the cat have clean fur. This will also cut down on shedding and can reduce issues with hairballs. Your cat should be kept groomed so that they look great and you’ll also make your home look good.

TIP! Visit your local shelter if you’re thinking about getting a cat. Sometimes, you may find the cat of your dreams at a shelter.

Cats like sneaking into small spaces. If your cat gets caught on something wearing a traditional collar they could end up hurting their neck trying to break free. A breakaway collar has the ability to release its hold if the cat pulls tightly on it. This can make the difference in whether your cat have nine lives or only a couple of them.

You may want to have a microchip implanted in your cat. Even indoor cats may get out of your home at some point. Tags and collars can help you cat return home, but cats can wiggle out of them or risk injury by snagging them on a tree branch or bush. You can use a microchip instead; you can store your contact information in the chip and it will not bother your cat. Most organizations that deal with animal care can scan your cat for microchips, and because they are implanted, they won’t get lost.

Cats will often devote most of their time to grooming. If your cat is long haired, this may cause hairballs. There are special foods you can give to your cat to reduce this problem. Some cat food out there has a special formula in it that reduces hairballs. This benefits your pet and you.

TIP! Cats can get into even the tiniest of spaces. If you keep a collar on your pet, getting stuck in one of these spaces can be very dangerous.

If your cat constantly meows, you need to try to figure out why. As you develop a relationship with your cat over time, it will become easier to determine why she is meowing. The meows may indicate hunger, happiness, or a desire to go exploring. Be aware of the cues your cat gives you, and the two of you will have a better relationship.

Do you own both a dog and a cat? A dog will take any opportunity they have to eat your cats food. You should keep your cat food away from the dog. In doing so, you prevent spats and spitting over competition for water.

Litter Box

TIP! If your kitty is a female, make sure to plan a spaying once she is of age to breed. Even if your cat is an indoor cat, if she escapes while she is in heat you might end up with a lot of kittens on your hands.

Never try to teach a cat to use a litter box. This should come naturally for your cat. You cannot teach it to do this. Some individuals believe they should carry their cat to the litter box and rub paws into the litter. This actually can be quite traumatic for a cat.

You should give your cat at least three weeks to grow used to the presence of a new animal. They may fight with each other initially. Your cats will grow used to the presence of the other animal and will eventually get along.

A cat’s life isn’t complete without play. Play is necessary for all mammals no matter the age or species. While older cats have less energy than their younger counterparts, they can still play a little. Make sure you spend time doing fun things with your cat.

TIP! Nice furniture and cat claws don’t get along very well. Purchase a scratching post to stop your cat from destroying your home.

Does your home feel inundated with balls of cat fur? Cats shed a ton, so they must be brushed frequently. If your cat sheds often, you will need to brush him more often. This can also prevent their coat from becoming matted or tangled.

If your cat is pregnant, make sure she has plenty of room to give birth. This process can take up to five hours. Once 6 hours have passed, if all the kittens have not been delivered you should seek the help of a vet.

Do not use chemicals around your cat that contain phenol. Pine-Sol and Lysol contain this ingredient. Cats hate the smell, and it can do sever damage to a cat’s liver if left near it for prolonged periods.

TIP! Cats are known for spending inordinate amounts of time grooming themselves. If your cat is long haired, this may cause hairballs.

If possible, make sure your cat is always indoors. Indoor cats live longer and stay healthier. While cats can get their exercise roaming the neighborhood and squaring off against other cats, they can also get diseases and injuries this way. Vigorous indoor play with an owner is a preferable way to get exercise.

Your pet cat, like all others, runs the risk of attracting parasites. When this happen, you should help your cat get rid of the pests. You can take measures to get rid of or even prevent parasites. This will make life happier for your cat and you, too.