Given the chance to do so, would you like to save the life of a cat? Many cats are available for those who can offer a loving home. It only takes some knowledge and commitment to care for a cat. Read here about how to approach the process properly.

Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Many shelters are overcrowded with lovable and adoptable cats. By adopting a cat from your local shelter, you will preserve a life and will do your part in controlling the cat population.

TIP! Small places are spots cats love to get into. A collar can become a liability if your cat is especially adventurous.

Cats enjoy finding small spaces to fit into. A collar can be a dangerous thing to wear in such a place. A breakaway style collar will literally “break away” if pulled too tight. This can keep your cat alive.

Don’t give a cat a dog’s product. Cats don’t like dog products. This is especially true of flea products. Some products designed for dogs could be harmful to your cat. If you treat your dog for fleas, make sure you keep the cat away for several hours following the application.

Cats will be up during the night more often than not. This means nighttime is an active time for your cat. Keep your bedroom door shut if your cats make too much noise at night. This will ensure they don’t pounce on you at nighttime, or wake you up in other ways.

TIP! Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If you find your cat tearing up things around your home, buy a scratching post or cat tower.

Put the litter box in an ideal location. Keep the litter from the cat food, and avoid placing it in a busy area. To prevent a strong stench, be sure this space is well-ventilated. Your cat and you will appreciate it.

A cat generally spends quite a bit of time grooming itself. Hairballs are more common in long-haired cats. Buy your cat specialized food to prevent this problem. Some foods are in fact formulated specifically to reduce hairballs, and that is a good idea for your cat and you too.

Put your cat’s food on a tablecloth. Often cats prefer moving food from a bowl onto the floor to eat. This leaves food on the floor outside their bowl that must be cleaned. To simplify your clean up duties, place a ready made placemat under the dish or purchase some inexpensive fabric and use it like a tablecloth.

TIP! You can also consider outfitting your cat with a chip so you can monitor its whereabouts. Your pet may be an indoor cat, but that doesn’t mean it’ll never dash through your door or slide outside via an open window.

Try to figure out why your cat makes meowing sounds. After you have coexisted with a pet cat for a long while, you are sure to figure out its meowing patterns. The meows may indicate hunger, happiness, or a desire to go exploring. You’ll learn her cues quickly.

Cats like to be up high. To make your cat happier, give him a lookout perch where he can check out the area. If a big cat tree is not something that can easily fit in your home, get a sturdy shelf that can be used as a perch. Make it extra comfortable by adding a blanket or cushion.

Never try to teach a cat how to work a litter box. Cats instinctively understand what to do and teaching is not required. While some folks think you should pick up your cat and place their paws against the litter, this can actually be traumatic.

TIP! A tablecloth for the feeding area can be quite useful. Some cats like removing food from their bowl and eating it beside their bowl.

Purchase a drinking fountain for your cat to get water from. Cats like running water for drink more than water that is just sitting there. A constant stream of water will entice them to stay hydrated. You could even consider turning on your sink a few times a day to let your cat drink from the faucet. A fountain will give them the same effect, and it is more environmentally friendly.

Giving your love and attention to a cat is an admirable pursuit. You’re providing affection and shelter to a create that needs it badly. You will develop a strong bond with your cat that will last a lifetime. If you care for your cat, it will return the favour.