Like humans, cats require many things, even a proper diet. Without these basic needs, you could have an unhappy and unhealthy cat. The following article is full of excellent dietary tips for your cat.

Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. They can have very strong and possibly negative reactions to dog products. This warning applies to products for getting rid of fleas. Your cat can die when exposed to flea prevention items made for dogs. Actually, it is best to separate the cat from the dog once the flea problem has been treated.

TIP! Ensure that your cat goes to the vet often so that they are healthy. They should have a routine check-up once a year or more if important shots are due.

Never let your cat experience frequent boredom. Cats need play and exercise like other pets. A lot of cat owners do not keep their cats busy. Bored cats tend to develop emotional and mental disorders that may negatively impact their health. Spend time playing with them, and go through a variety of toys to find ones they like and will play with while you’re busy, too. Indoor cats will appreciate having a structure they can climb on or a dedicated scratching post.

Avoid bladder crystals and stones by feeding high quality food. 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. This means you should pay attention to labels on food. Fish usually has more magnesium than poultry.

If you’re traveling with your cat, take care to remember their ears. Although you may love singing loudly to your favorite songs while driving, your cat would probably prefer softer sounds. To keep your cat calm and collected over the course of your trip, keep the stereo low – or perhaps off entirely.

TIP! Do not use dog products on your cat. Products designed for dogs or other animals could cause a negative reaction from your cat.

Make a tablecloth that your cat can use. A lot of time cats will take their food from their bowls to eat it on the food bowl’s side. This creates extra work since you must then clean up the leftover loose food. To make clean up a breeze, use a place mat underneath the bowl or a piece of fabric. You’ll be able to pick it up easily and shake the excess food into the trash.

If you’re getting a kitten for your children, discuss this with them before bringing the cat home. You can then teach your kids which areas your cat can go into. Be sure that your children understand that an indoor cat must never be allowed outdoors. Clearly explaining the rules will limit future mishaps.

Are you the owner of a dog and a cat? Dogs often take advantage of dining on the cat’s food. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. This will help you to be sure that the animals won’t fight over the water either after they’ve eaten all their food.

TIP! If you have to travel with a cat you should remember their ears. You may enjoy it, but it could be hurting your cat’s ears.

You cannot teach a cat to use a litter box. This is something that comes naturally and is not learned. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.

Don’t buy cheap cat food. Scrutinize the ingredients closely, and make sure that quality protein sources like chicken, fish and beef are first on the list. Corn and other such protein-free fillers are things you want to stay well away from. Since cats are carnivorous, they require animal protein to stay in the best health.

Ensure your cat is collared and wears an identification tag. This is very important for indoor cats. The lure of an open door or window is very attractive to your curious cat. Those tags can help if someone finds your kitty. Make sure your info and your vets info is on it. Include medical issues if appropriate.

TIP! Be careful as small kids may treat kittens too roughly. Spend time instructing your children on cat care.

When your cat starts urinating often or in odd places, it may be time to see the vet. Cats often do such things when suffering from urinary tract infections or other sorts of health issues. You can solve this problem thanks to some very affordable antibiotics.

Don’t give your cat medicine intended for humans. If you cat suffers from health issues, ask your vet for his recommended treatment option. Providing your cat with a human medication can seriously harm them, and it just might kill them.

Your cat needs a healthy diet. If your cat has a poor diet and does not eat enough good food or eats too much bad food, their life span can be decreased. Do what is best for the cat and provide good food.