Cats are truly very finicky creatures; however, they can make great pets. From specific dietary needs, to grooming needs and behavioral challenges, you must consider many different concerns when you have a cat. This article provides some great advice on a vast array of topics to help you deal with your new furry friend.

If you are planning to get a pet cat, be sure to check with your local shelter. Many shelters have more cats than they can handle and the fees associated with adoption take care of vet visits. You’re literally saving their life.

TIP! Putting a warm tile beneath the bed of an older cat will help it rest comfortably. You can heat a terracotta tile in the oven at 200 degrees for about 15-20 minutes.

Do not allow your cat to be bored frequently. Cats need stimulation. Sadly, this can be easily overlooked. Bored cats can suffer from depression, extreme compulsive disorders, and other harmful issues that can negatively impact their overall health and well-being. Spend time playing with them, and go through a variety of toys to find ones they like and will play with while you’re busy, too. A scratching post is a valuable toy to put in your home.

Cats can tend to be more nocturnal than not. It is likely that they will want to play while you are sleeping. If your cat is keeping you up at night, you should close the door to your bedroom. This will ensure you sleep much better, without cats jumping into bed with you.

Litter Box

TIP! If you have an outdoor cat, make sure he is fitted with a tag and collar. Cats can go far from home and without a tag they could become lost forever.

Keep your cat’s litter box in the right location. Try to keep it away from areas of household traffic and away from your cat’s eating areas. In addition, you should ensure you place the litter box in a well-ventilated area to minimize the smell. Both you and your cat will be happier.

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. Sometimes you might not have time to wait for an online order to arrive however, such as if your cat needs an immediate antibiotic or emergency treatment. But, for routine medications, this can be a budget-saver.

If you’re taking a trip with your cat, be sure to protect its ears. You cat is used to being at home and it might shock him to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. Try turning down your tunes or keeping it off to make your cat’s trip better.

TIP! Spritz a little bitter apple on electrical cords to protect your cats. Most office stores sell a tube that you can stick all of your wires and cords through if the spray doesn’t work.

Why is your cat meowing? Once you become familiar with your cat and its needs, it will become easier to determine what he needs when he meows. The cat might want something to eat, or just to go outside. Be aware of the cues your cat gives you, and the two of you will have a better relationship.

Do you own a dog and cat? Dogs take every opportunity they can get to eat the cat’s food. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. This also ensures that there are no squabbles over the water between the two, when the food is gone.

Your cat deserves a high quality food. Read the ingredient label, and make sure a protein from meat tops the list. Stay way from cat foods made of corn or any other ingredients that aren’t based in protein. Cats are meant to eat meat, and that means that they need to have foods that are high in protein.

TIP! A microchip for your cat is something that you should really consider. Even a house cat may end up lost outside, no matter how careful you are.

Making sure your cat is taken care of can be easy if you know what you’re doing and if the animal behaves right off the bat. But, you have to remember that most cats won’t be that easy to take care of. With the suggestions provided above, you’ll be in a better position to address your feline friend’s needs and even anticipate them before they can cause problems. You’ll be glad you did.