Cats aren’t cheap to keep healthy and happy. Veterinarian bills, cat food, cat toys and kitty litter all add up. For ideas to improve your cat’s health and happiness, read on.

Though things may appear to be fine, you should always schedule regular medical checkups for your feline pet. Not only will a veterinarian give a general physical exam, he or she will also make sure they have necessary vaccinations. For the most consistent pet care, choose one veterinarian and stick with them. This person will be more knowledgeable on your cat’s history.

TIP! Make sure your cat is out of harms way by putting a little bitter apple on all the electrical cords to avoid them getting shocked. If they like to chew on cords, try covering them as much as you can.

Spray bitter apple on electrical cords. Cat can sometimes chew on cords, and they should be covered to prevent this. Hide those loose cords and keep them out of sight in no longer needed paper towel rolls. Store electronics when they are not in use rather than leaving them plugged in.

Don’t let your cat’s days pass without stimulation and excitement! Cats need to exercise and play. But, too many cat owners fail to realize this. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. Make sure your cats have a wide variety of toys and plenty of room for active play. Indoor cats will appreciate having a structure they can climb on or a dedicated scratching post.

When your cat is riding with you in your car, ensure you keep their ears in mind. Although you might enjoy jamming to your music, understand that cats prefer peace and quiet. To ensure your cat’s trip is pleasant, turn off the music or keep the volume low.

TIP! Making sure your cat doesn’t jump on the counters is hard to do. If your cat is high, he can see everything that is going on.

Create a tablecloth that your cats can use. Certain cats prefer removing their food from their bowl and putting it on the side to eat it. This can lead to a big clean-up. Use a placemat under your cat’s bowl or cut some fabric to create a small tablecloth. Shake the placemat or cloth over the garbage regularly.

Cats generally will meow for a reason. As you develop a relationship with your cat over time, it will become easier to determine why she is meowing. It could be she’s hungry or needs to go outside. When you pay attention to the cat’s actions and cues, then may grow to understand the cat all the more.

Do you own both a dog and a cat? Understand that dogs will usually eat cat’s food if they can. This is why you should have a feeding area for your cat that is too high for the dog to reach. Separate eating spaces are a must to avoid fights between your pets.

TIP! Think about putting a microchip in your pet. Even indoor cats can decide to run away at a moment’s notice, escaping through an open window.

You should talk to other pet owners if you have an issue with yours. It can really help to get advice from fellow cat owners. There are many online forums that discuss cats. Most vets will also be happy to help you with some advice.

Consider getting your cat a fountain to drink from. A cat will always drink from running water if possible. A constant stream of water will entice them to stay hydrated. Actually, certain cats like to drink right from the sink faucet as it runs. Also, drinking fountains are more environmentally friendly and gives them the ability to drink naturally.

Canned food is an excellent choice for cats. Dry food can be less costly, but there are quite a few benefits to canned food. Canned food generally provides more nutrients, protein and fat as well as liquids. This will make it easier for your older cats to digest. Speak with your veterinarian before making any major changes, however in general, canned food is better for your cat.

TIP! If you get a cat for your kids, make sure to set clear boundaries in advance. Make sure the children know where the cat is and is not allowed to roam.

Your cat needs good play time. Play is necessary for all mammals no matter the age or species. Older cats do not have the same energy level as younger ones, but they still like to play a little. Enjoy some playtime with your cat.

Aired Cats

There is more care to consider with long-haired cats. While long, silky hair is beautiful on a cat, the same fur appears far less beautiful covering your floor, dark clothing, and furniture. Unless you are prepared to do more cleaning, don’t buy a long haired cat. Long-haired cats also often have hairballs.

TIP! Do your best to determine why your cat is meowing. You need to learn what their meows mean.

Where did you put the litter box? Many people want it in an out of the way spot. However, it is important to keep their litter box in an area they can easily get to. Your cat will use the litter box if it is placed in a quiet place and away from smells your cat does not enjoy. A litter box located in the basement should be placed on a thick mat or rug.

Cats have shockingly sharp noses, which means they can spot changes in their home with ease. This can sometimes cause difficulties when you buy a new scratching post, cat bed or food dish. Don’t let this discourage you. When your cat becomes more comfortable, he or she will adjust.

Despite their independent nature, cats are no less expensive than any other pet. Cats generally need a lot of care which can be considered similar to caring for a child. Now that you read this article, you know what it takes to properly care for your feline.