Cats are very fascinating, and they also are great pets. Being a cat owner is an enjoyable venture in life. Read this article and follow the suggestions it contains.

Keep your cat groomed. Cats must be brushed and groomed frequently. Such practices help keep cats’ coats clean. It can cut down on shedding and spitting up hairballs, too. Keeping a cat well groomed basically helps keep them looking their best, along with your home.

TIP! If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. Even if she spends her time indoors, it is possible for her to escape while in heat, causing an unwanted pregnancy.

You should never allow your cat to be bored all the time. Cats need to exercise and play. A lot of cat owners do not keep their cats busy. Cats that are bored may develop obsessive compulsive disorders, depression, or other issues that can harm their health. You need to give it new toys regularly and make sure your cat has plenty of space to run and play. A scratching post is a valuable toy to put in your home.

Cats are often nocturnal creatures. Your cat will probably be very active during the night. If your busy kitties are keeping you up into the wee hours, try simply closing your bedroom door. Your cat will not bother you in the middle of the night if this area is off limit.

Male cats often develop crystals in their bladder that come out in their urine. This can be prevented with a proper diet. Just like kidney stones, these crystals are painful and vet bills are pricey. Choose foods low in magnesium for your cat. Be sure to read the ingredient label. Cat food with lots of fish tends to have more magnesium, while products with lots of poultry tend to have less.

TIP! Cats love to play on kitchen counters, and it can be hard to break them of the habit. If your cat is high, he can see everything that is going on.

You may be able to find a better deal on your cat’s prescription online instead of purchasing them from your veterinarian. There may be some cases in which you cannot buy online, such as in an emergency. However, if you buy meds for your cat on a regular basis, you can save huge amounts by getting medication via the Internet.

Cat Outside

Don’t let your cat outside. It can be unsafe. Cats can become infected with fleas, ticks and ringworm. Cats can also be hunted by other animals, stolen or hit by passing vehicles. If you must let your cat outside, do so in a very small area of your backyard or lawn.

TIP! Most cats are very nocturnal. Your cat will probably be very active during the night.

Do you have dogs and cats? Dogs take every opportunity they can get to eat the cat’s food. For this reason, you need to place your cat’s bowl in an area that is to high for a dog to reach. The added benefit is that you will prevent fights over the other animals food and water when one of them runs out.

If you’re having an issue with your cat, try to get some input from other cat owners. Although you may feel like you don’t need help, other owners may be able to give you good advice. There are many online cat forums that you can visit and ask some questions. If necessary, you may need to call your veterinarian.

Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. They do this by nature and don’t need to be taught. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.

TIP! Your cat needs lots of affection and love. Your cat will enjoy your company if you pet and play with her.

Regularly brush your cat’s hair. This will help spread the natural oils within their fur while stimulating their skin’s blood flow. Also, it helps manage loose hair. This will help you to avoid hairballs, which may cause your cat to choke. Hairballs are caused when a cat grooms itself.

Your cat should always wear a collar and ID tag. Even indoor cats should have identification on them. Cats are naturally curious and a door or window that’s open invites exploration. You should use a tag with your contact information and the address of your veterinarian. This is particularly important if you have a cat with medical needs.

Litter Box

TIP! Often, the best cat medicine deals are found online. When an emergency strikes, however, you may not have the option of buying medications on the Internet.

Move the litter box if your cat won’t use it. The best place for a litter box is in a secure, quiet area. Cats feel vulnerable when they’re using it, so they want it to be in a place where they feel safe. Basements, laundry rooms and other quiet spots are best.

Place a collar on your cat that has your name, phone number and address. Your indoor pet might even get out if you leave a window open. Should this occur, your cat can be returned to you or someone can contact you with his whereabouts.

A cat can get lonely when your daily routine changes and you are no longer home during the day. To help avoid boredom, consider bringing another cat into the household.

TIP! When your cat accompanies you on a trip, remember to consider the health of their ears. You may love loud music, bit it might be bothering your cat.

Cats can make fantastic pets. Knowing how to properly care for your cat is essential to make sure he has a long and happy life with you. Use all the tips you read in this article and find more sources you can use to learn more about cats. Your furry friend will say thank you in his own special way when you reward him with all your new knowledge!