It isn’t always easy to make a cat happy. They can be very mysterious, even from the moment they enter your home. With the proper advice, however, you can ensure that they are safe and cared for–even if they don’t realize that you’re the boss! The advice below will help you give your pet what it needs.

If you want to have the love of a cat, get one from a shelter. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care. You’re literally saving their life.

TIP! Keep your cat away from your drapery cords. If your cat plays with looped drape cords, they could get caught around its neck, which presents a suffocation hazard.

It can be tough to keep cats off the countertops. Cats love being up high so that they can see. One good way to beat this problem is by giving your kitty some safe, high perches throughout the house. A cat tower near the kitchen will ensure that cats won’t lay on your counter.

You may want to have a microchip put into your car. Even indoor cats get out sometimes. Collars or tags can identify your cat, but cats can wiggle out of those, and they are also at risk of getting hung up on something. You can use a microchip instead; you can store your contact information in the chip and it will not bother your cat. Most vets and animal shelters will have a microchip scanner and because it’s under the animal’s skin it can never become lost.

Most cats tend towards nocturnal behavior. They are often active at nighttime. Shut the door to your bedroom. This helps to muffle the sounds of nighttime play. This will keep them from attacking your toes.

TIP! Cats need a certain amount of grooming to stay healthy and presentable. Cats must be brushed and groomed frequently.

Be sure to show your cat affection as much as possible. They give lots of affection and need some in return. Like people, cats like to socialize and need to feel like they’re an essential part of your life. Make her feel like she is part of your family.

When your cat accompanies you on a trip, remember to consider the health of their ears. You and your cat probably have different ideas about the ideal volume for the car stereo, for instance: Remember that your cat’s hearing is more sensitive than yours. Try turning down your tunes or keeping it off to make your cat’s trip better.

Make a tablecloth that your cat can use. Some cats prefer removing their food from the bowl and eating it on the side. This can result in a mess that needs to be cleaned 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.

TIP! Check-ups are an absolute must for any pet cat. Cats need to get shots so they don’t get sick and a vet can help you make sure your cat is okay.

When getting a little kitty for your kid, set boundaries beforehand. Explain where the cat is and isn’t allowed. They should know that indoor cats can’t go outside. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.

Don’t let your cat outside. It can be unsafe. Your cat could get parasites, or worse. Cats can be gravely injured or killed by eating poisonous plants, flowers or chemicals, hit by a car or even harmed by neighbors who are irritated with your cat on their property. If your cat has to be outside, make sure it is only in a small area near the house.

The advice above will aid you in caring for your cat. Take advantage of what you’ve learned so that you’ll be certain your pet has all that it needs. Your cat will be in better health and much happier if you are a good pet owner. Do not hesitate to get help from your veterinarian if you need to.