Cats are great pets and fascinating creatures. They are independent, so they do not require you to supervise them 24/7. You can ensure your cat has a rich and healthy life with the following tips.

Contact local shelters if you want to adopt a cat. They have tons of amazing cats who desperately need a home. When you bring home a shelter cat, you will be saving its life and you will be doing your part to help out.

TIP! If you’re thinking of getting a cat for a pet, you should look to the local shelter. Shelters have tons of great cats and their adoption fee will generally cover necessary vet care.

If you own a female cat, it’s crucial to spay it at the appropriate age. You may not think it’s necessary if you have an indoor cat, but your cat may escape. Getting your cat spayed is a great way to stop this from going on.

Being nocturnal is quite normal for cats. The result is that cats prefer to be more active during the night. If your busy kitties are keeping you up into the wee hours, try simply closing your bedroom door. This will ensure you sleep much better, without cats jumping into bed with you.

Cats frequently groom themselves. Long-haired cats often develop hairballs. Special food can help. Some cat foods are specially formulated to help reduce hairballs, which is good for both you and your pet.

TIP! You may want to have a microchip implanted in your cat. You never know when your cat could get away from you.

Why is your cat meowing? After you have lived with your cat for a while, you will come to know what she wants by her meow. A meow could signal anything from hunger to a desire for affection. Be aware of the cues your cat gives you, and the two of you will have a better relationship.

If you’re thinking about raising an outdoor cat, you should strongly reconsider. It can be unsafe. Cats can attract fleas and other parasites. Your cat may be targeted by another animal, or get injured by a vehicle or another person. If letting your cat outdoors is important to you, let them out in a safe fenced area.

Understand that leaving a small kitten together with small children can be dangerous to both. Under five, the child needs to be watched. Their immaturity prevents them from understanding how easily they could hurt the kitten. As a kid ages, they can show maturity with handling a little pet.

Cat Owners

Talk to others when you have a problem with your cat. It can really help to get advice from fellow cat owners. Participate in online discussion boards for cat owners, or pick up the telephone and speak with your vet.

Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. A common misconception is to rub your cats paws into the kitty litter however this isn’t a good idea.

TIP! When traveling on the road with your cat, understand that they are sensitive to sounds. You may love loud music, bit it might be bothering your cat.

Give your cat a good brushing regularly. Brushing spreads natural oils through the fur and also stimulates circulation. You will also decrease the amount of fur throughout your home. Brushing eliminates the formation of hairballs which may choke your cat and lead to buildup of excess hair in the abdomen when the cat grooms himself.

A battered appearance isn’t a good reason to discard a beloved cat condo or scratching post. When it is in this condition, cats tend to like it the most. If you throw it away, you may find your cat scratching on other surfaces.

It is important that your cat always where a collar that identifies them. Even if yours is an indoor cat, this is still an important safety measure. Cats can slip out a door in a flash. Make sure the collars have tags with your contact information and your veterinarian’s information as well. Also make sure to note any unusual medical requirements.

Litter Box

Where did you put the litter box? You may want to place in some out-of-the-way corner so the smell doesn’t bother anyone. The thing to remember is that your cat must have easy access to the box. This will keep your cat as happy as possible. A litter box located in the basement should be placed on a thick mat or rug.

Cats are perfect pets for houses and condos. There are some things you need to learn to keep your cat healthy and energetic, though. Make good use of the advice you have just read to give your cat the care it needs. Educating yourself properly will improve the quality of the time you share with your cat for both of you.