For those who don’t know, feral cats live in the streets. These cats are abandoned and make up almost half of the whole cat population. You can learn how to deal with these cats before they cost you money.

Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Shelters around the country are overflowing, and the cats there need more humans to help. Adoption fees often include things like spaying or neutering them, shots or other vet care. By choosing a cat from an animal shelter, you can do your part to help with overpopulation. Also, you become a lifesaver!

TIP! A heated tile for underneath your cat’s bed can provide real comfort. Put a square foot of terra cotta tile into your oven heated to 200 degrees.

Make sure your cat is regularly visiting the vet for checkups. Cats require special shots to prevent illness and the vet can check their overall health. When you find a vet you like, stick with them. That way, the doctor will be familiar with the history of your cat.

Flea Products

Don’t give a cat a dog’s product. Cats have very strong, negative reactions to products formulated for dogs. This particularly applies to flea products. Flea products that are intended for a dog can kill a cat. Make sure to separate your cat from your dog after spraying.

TIP! When your female cat is old enough, it’s vital to get her spayed. You may keep your cat inside, but she could still slip outside and become pregnant.

If you have an outdoor cat, be sure he or she has a tagged collar. A lost cat is much easier to locate if they are properly tagged. The tag should contain your phone number as well as your cat’s name.

When it comes to litter boxes, placement is everything. A cat’s litter box should be in a quiet spot in the house, away from where your cat eats. Also, minimize the smell by making sure it is a well ventilated area. You and your cat will greatly appreciate this.

Though a veterinarian will almost always have a supply of medications that your cat needs, it can be more cost-effective to purchase them from online venues. If it’s an emergency, buying online may not be an option. It is possible to save up to 50% on certain medications by purchasing them online.

TIP! Spray bitter apple on electrical cords. If your cat likes to chew cords, hide the cords as best you can.

If you’re getting a kitten for your children, discuss this with them before bringing the cat home. Make sure your children know where in the house the cat is permitted to be. If the cat is to be indoors, tell your children not to allow him outside. If you make the rules ahead of time, you can be sure your kids understand them.

Try to figure out why your cat makes meowing sounds. After some time, you’ll understand why your cat purs or meows based on what she wants. A meow could signal anything from hunger to a desire for affection. Pay attention to her cues, and you can understand your cat that much more.

Do you own a dog and cat? That dog will really love stalking (and eating) that cat food. This is why you should have a feeding area for your cat that is too high for the dog to reach. This will ensure they don’t fight over food or water, too.

TIP! Your home furnishings can fall victim to your cat’s sharp claws. If your couch is starting to look like it’s been put through a shredder, it’s time to invest in a nice scratching post or cat tower.

Be sure to carrier train your cat. Punishment affects cats differently from dogs. Cats learn well when they feel encouraged. Put their favorite toy and blanket in a carrier. Leave it somewhere they always go to. The cat will be drawn to the carrier, where it will feel safe and comfy. Once the cat is comfortable with the carrier, you can transport it easily.

After reading this article, you should have a working knowledge on how to care for your cat. They can cause damage to your yard or attack your pets. Cats need to be loved and treated with care. You might even take to one of the feral cats.