Cats are really mysterious. Though they seem independent, they also appear to be thoroughly needy sometimes. Through all the confusion, you cannot overstate the joy of a purring, happy cat. The following advice will help you care for your pet.

Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. These can cause your cat to choke if they get a hold of it. This accident could trap or injure your cat, or even be fatal. Make sure drapery cords are kept back to avoid this.

TIP! Be sure your cat gets regular checkups at the vet. Your cat should always go to the vet for a check up, especially if they need shots.

You should make sure your cat stays groomed properly. You should comb and/or brush them on a regular basis. If this is done frequently, your cat’s coat will be much cleaner. It’s also helpful in reducing how much cats shed and how often they spit out those dreaded hairballs. A well-groomed feline looks great on their own, but also helps keep a home well-groomed too.

Cats like sneaking into small spaces. If they are wearing a collar this can pose a safety risk, in the event that your cat gets stuck. A breakaway collar will let go if it is pulled on too tightly. It can really be a life saver for your cat.

If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. Even though your cat stays indoors all the time, there might be that one time she slips through the door when she goes into heat, which results in a litter of unexpected kittens. Spaying a cat can prevent this.

TIP! Spray bitter apple on electrical cords to keep cats away from them. If your cat likes to chew cords, hide the cords as best you can.

Make sure your cat sees a vet regularly to maintain their good health. They need a routine check-up every year, maybe more of important shots are necessary. If your cat has any health issues or injuries, you should try and have them seen right away.

Litter Box

The litter box for your cat needs to be positioned in the right place. Do not place it in a busy area or close to where your cat eats meals. It is also advisable to keep the litter box area ventilated to control odor. Not only will your cat appreciate it but you will too.

TIP! Do not allow your cat to stay bored all of the time. It is necessary for them to play and get exercise.

Your cat most likely spends quite a bit of time grooming. If your cat has hair that’s long it could get hairballs. One way to alleviate this condition in your cat is by feeding him special food. There are foods that are made to reduce the frequency of hairballs. It’s a smart move for your cat and your sanity.

If you’re taking a trip with your cat, be sure to protect its ears. They don’t want to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. This means that you should keep your music turned down or off so the cat can relax.

When purchasing a tiny kitty as gift for the kids, it’s best to establish boundaries well ahead of the arrival. Make sure that you let your kids know which areas of the house the cat will be allowed in. Make sure the kids know if your cat is indoors only. Setting rules in advances ensures understanding.

TIP! Cats are frequently nocturnal in their habits. Do not be surprised if your cat is very active at night.

You cannot teach a cat to use a litter box. They will do it on their own and don’t need to be taught. Many people think rubbing a cat’s paws in litter will teach them to use the litter box, but it might actually traumatize them.

Never reprimand your cat for missing the litter box. Many times this occurs because the box wasn’t well maintained. Punishing your cat will just make them afraid of you later on.

Make sure your cat is always wearing a collar with proper identification tags. This is essential, even for indoor cats. Cats can be very curious and they may escape out of a door or a window. Tags should include contact information for you and your vet. This is also important if your cat has special medical needs.

TIP! Cats appreciate all the affection you can give. Think of all the friendship and comfort cats provide to us.

You should give your cat at least three weeks to grow used to the presence of a new animal. They may still hiss and growl when they are in the same room together. Give them a bit more time to begin to get used to each other face to face, too.

Taking your cat to the vet regularly to get proper vaccinations and check-ups will ensure that your pet enjoys a long and healthy life with you. Just like with having kids, young cats need to be checked on to see if they’re doing okay from time to time. It also needs its shots so that you can avoid problems later on down the road. Your cat is a family member, so treat them like anyone else you love in your home.

Your feline friend should always wear a collar and tags with your name and contact information. This should be done even with an indoors cat. The animal could get out. If that happens, you want to be sure that there is a way for them to make it back home.

TIP! Crystals form in urine from male cats. This can be prevented with good food choices.

If the cat has constant hairballs and brushing more isn’t helping, this may help. Mix some pumpkin into your cat’s food. You can also mix in a little water from a tuna can with the pumpkin. There are foods that inhibit hairballs which have fiber in them. They might take care of the issue.

Cats may be somewhat mysterious, but they are able to be loyal friends to you. Use the advice you have just read to give your cat the care it deserves. Cats have a knack for raising people’s spirits, and that goes double when they are cared for properly.