There are so many joys you can get from just having a cat. Having said that, if you are a cat owner, understand that it requires some work. A responsible cat owner is a well-informed cat owner. This article is packed with tips and ideas that make it easier for you to fulfill your responsibilities to your pet. Keep on reading for excellent information on caring for your pet.

Drape Cords

TIP! Take your cat in for regular vet exams. Cats need to get shots so they don’t get sick and a vet can help you make sure your cat is okay.

Any drape cords should be hidden so the cat cannot grab hold of them. Whenever cats jump on these cords, they might get tangled up in them. It may actually cause them some serious harm. Pin back drape cords to avoid this type of issue.

Cats need a certain amount of grooming to stay healthy and presentable. A cat requires regularly brushing and combing. This leads to a cleaner cat. Also, this can eliminate the constant shedding that you will deal with. Keeping a cat groomed properly can help them and your home look great.

Make sure your cat is regularly visiting the vet for checkups. Your cat requires a variety of vaccines and shots to prevent illness, and it is also important to identify health problems before they become too severe. When you find a vet you like, stick with them. This helps make sure your vet knows your cat’s history.

TIP! To safely help an old cat feel comfortable, place a heated tile under its bed. Bake a one-foot tile made from terra cotta in the oven at 200 degrees F for around 15 to 20 minutes.

Make sure your cat sees a vet regularly to maintain their good health. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due. Cats should see a vet right away if any health problems or injuries needing treatment occur.

Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. Cats have very strong, negative reactions to products formulated for dogs. When it comes to flea products this is particularly true. Some products designed for dogs could be harmful to your cat. You should keep your cats and dogs separated after using a flea treatment.

Spray bitter apple on electrical cords. You can also cover your cords under a rug or tape them to walls. Use some paper towel rolls to tuck loose cords. Electronics with thin cords must be put out of reach when they aren’t being used.

TIP! Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. This can irritate your cat or cause an allergic reaction.

Your cat needs lots of affection and love. Cats need just as much companionship as they give out. Cats need a social life with people just like you do with other people. They want to know they are a valuable part of the family too.

Crystals in the urine, an issue many male cats have, can be avoided with the proper food. The cat is in pain passing the crystals, and the correction for this is costly. Feed your cat food that is low in magnesium. Read the ingredient list on the label. Cat food with lots of fish tends to have more magnesium, while products with lots of poultry tend to have less.

Check prices online for your cat’s medication to see if they are cheaper than at your vet’s office. Naturally, some stuff won’t be available online. But if you have to regularly buy pet medicine, you can save 50% or more on some medicines by buying online.

TIP! A cat’s claws can do significant damage to your home and belongings. Purchase a scratching post to stop your cat from destroying your home.

Cats enjoy being high up. 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. Additionally, you can place a bed or blanket in this space.

You may find it is helpful to talk to others about challenges you have with your cat. You can often get great advice from friends and family. There are also forums on the Internet which cater to cat parents.

Take time to train your cat to go into a car carrier. Cats just don’t respond like dogs do when it comes to punishment. Instead, cats are more likely to respond to words of encouragement. Place a beloved blanket or item inside the carrier and let it stay open near the cat’s usual haunts. Soon that cat will walk into the carrier on its own. This takes the hassle out of traveling with your cat in its carrier.

TIP! Male cats may develop crystals in the urine, which usually occur as a result of a poor diet. Passing stones or crystals hurts and can cost you a ton in vet bills if they don’t come out naturally.

Canned food is an excellent choice for cats. Although it is usually more expensive, canned food offers real nutritional advantages. Your cat can get more water, fat and protein from canned food. It’s much easier for older cats to chew it as well. Speak with your vet, however generally speaking, canned cat food is better for your cat.

Litter Box

Be aware whenever your cat suddenly quits using its litter box. There are a number of health issues that can lead a well-trained cat to urinate in places other than their litter box. Kidney or bladder infections may be the reason. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.

TIP! When your cat accompanies you on a trip, remember to consider the health of their ears. You may like music loud and booming, but a cat will prefer lower volumes as their ears are more sensitive.

If your cat is prone to hairballs and additional brushing has no effect, you may be able to resolve the problem in other ways. You can try adding a teaspoon or so of pumpkin to your cat’s food. Flavor the pumpkin with a teaspoon of the water from a can of tuna. Some cat foods have components, such as fiber, that prevent hairballs.

As was stated in the beginning of this article, you can benefit a great deal from owning a cat. You definitely need to take care of the feline so that it lives a great and healthy life. If you’re ready to take the plunge and adopt a feline companion, keep this article’s information handy!