Cats are some amazing little creatures. They possess a level of intelligence that is rivaled by few. Caring for a cat takes a concentrated effort. Read the following article for an education on cat care.

If you plan on getting a cat for a pet, try looking into a local shelter. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care. Rescuing a cat can end up making a big difference in both of your lives.

TIP! Move any drape cords out of a cat’s reach. Never let your cats play with drape cords, as they could seriously injure themselves.

Don’t use items on a cat that are meant for a dog. Cats often have negative reactions to dog products. Flea products are a great example of this. These products can be fatal for your cat. You should keep your cats and dogs separated after using a flea treatment.

Give your cat plenty of love and affection. A cat’s companionship should be returned with the same. Cats thrive when treated like part of the household, so involve them in daily activities around the house. A cat can feel that he is a valuable, cherished part of their household.

A proper diet for male cats will help prevent kidney problems that cause them to pass crystals with their urine. It is painful for your cat to pass these crystals and the cost to have this treated by a vet is high. Give your cat foods that are low in magnesium. Look over the label. Fish usually has more magnesium than poultry.

TIP! You should take your cat to the vet on a regular basis to maintain optimum health. Your cat should always go to the vet for a check up, especially if they need shots.

You can often find better deals for cat medicine online rather than buying them from the veterinarian. There may be times when you cannot purchase medication online, such as in an emergency; however, monthly medication, such as flea medicine, can be bought online. But, if you’re having to buy pet medication regularly, you will be able to save up to half the price if you buy online.

If you take your cat with you when you travel, be mindful of their ears. You may love loud music, bit it might be bothering your cat. Spare your cat’s sensitive hearing by keeping the volume down at all times.

Make a tablecloth for your cats. Sometimes cats like to take food out of the bowl and eat it to the side of the bowl. This can result in you having to clean up food outside its bowl if you don’t use a tablecloth. The best thing for you to do is to have a place mat underneath the cat’s bowl.

TIP! Nice furniture and cat claws don’t get along very well. You need to get a scratching post or a cat tower to prevent your cat from ruining your furniture.

Consider all the options before you let your cat be an outdoors cat. There are many dangers to your cat outside. You cat can get fleas and contract diseases. There is the possibility they may get injured by another animal, even people and cars too. If your cat must be an outdoor cat, limit it to your own backyard.

Be cautious when leaving a kitten with children. Younger children, especially under 5, cannot be left alone with your cat. They are just not mature enough to understand the danger they can pose for the kitten. When they mature, they can spend alone time with the kitty.

Cats love heights. Designating a high-up area where your cat can hang out and watch everything from will help him to feel comfortable. You can give your cat on a shelf to accomplish this. Providing a blanket or bed for your cat is an extra treat for them.

TIP! Male cats often develop crystals in their bladder that come out in their urine. This can be prevented with a proper diet.

Never punish the cat if he or she causes a mess outside the litter box. Usually, this sort of thing happens when the box isn’t being tended to properly. Your cat will become afraid of you if you punish it or scold it too often.

Get your cat used to a carrier. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Cats are better trained by using patient encouragement. Place the open carrier in an area that your cat visits often and outfit it with a favorite toy and blanket. Your cat will start to venture into their carrier more often, until they are completely comfortable with it. This takes the hassle out of traveling with your cat in its carrier.

When your cat starts urinating often or in odd places, it may be time to see the vet. This could be a sign that your cat has a urinary infection or another health condition. A course of antibiotics often does the trick.

TIP! Do you have both a dog and a cat? Dogs are known for eating other pet’s food. Because of this, you should keep your cat’s food in a high spot that your dog won’t be able to reach.

Is there cat hair all over every surface in your home? Cats do a lot of shedding, and it helps to brush them. If your cat sheds, it’s important to brush then frequently. This keeps the coat from matting, too.

Give the cat a collar with your contact information. Your indoor pet might even get out if you leave a window open. If this happens, ensure there’s a way they can find home again.

Cats make good pets if you take your time when you are learning about them. Be sure to master the advice that you have just read. Use what you’ve learned to enjoy your time with your cat.