Many people brag that cats make unrivaled pets. Cats are energetic and a constant source of information. They’re also excellent defenders against household pests, like mice. It isn’t just rodents, cats can keep other pest animals away.

Groom your cat. A cat requires regularly brushing and combing. Brushing rids your cat’s coat of dirt and helps keep them clean. It also reduces their shedding and hairballs. A well groomed cat will be much more pleasant for everyone and will also help you keep your home clean.

TIP! Any drape cords should be hidden so the cat cannot grab hold of them. Do not let your cat play with these.

Regular vet checkups for your cat are very important. Your vet will provide your cat with the shots it needs to prevent disease. Your vet can also check the overall health of your cat. When you find a vet you like, stick with them. This ensures that your vet will have an excellent understanding of your pet’s medical history.

Cats are curious by nature, which can end up getting them into trouble. Collars can be a safety risk if your kitty gets stuck. Breakaway collars will “break” if they’re pulled too tight. Your cat can preserve a few of his nine lives with this.

If you have an outdoor cat, be sure he or she has a tagged collar. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost. At the very least, you should include your contact info and the name of your cat on the tag.

TIP! Grooming is an essential part of your cat’s care. You can regularly brush or comb your cat.

Microchips are an increasingly popular form of pet protection. Even indoor cats may get out of your home at some point. A collar and identification tags can help bring your pet back to you. But experts point out that collars that do not snap apart quickly if your cat gets it caught on a branch or even a bush can accidentally strangle your cat. A microchip, on the other hand, is inserted near your cat’s shoulder blades, takes only a second to do, and all of your current contact info can be read through the chip. Most vets and animal shelters will have a microchip scanner and because it’s under the animal’s skin it can never become lost.

Do not allow your cat to stay bored all of the time. Cats require physical activity. Unfortunately there are too many cat owners who don’t properly exercise their cats. Cats that are frequently bored may develop OCD, depression or other harmful conditions. 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. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.

The correct location is important when picking a spot for a cat’s litter box. Don’t put it where the cat can’t reach it or near their food. Also make sure the area is well ventilated to keep the smell to a minimum. Your cat and you will prefer this in the end.

TIP! Avoid using dog products on cats. They can have very strong and possibly negative reactions to dog products.

Try not to let your cat go outside. It is dangerous in today’s society. The cat can get fleas or something much worse. They can get in a fight or be hit by a car. When your cats go outside, keep an eye out to make sure they do not wander too far away.

Cats love heights. Elevate your cat so that it can scan the area. If you don’t want a large cat tree in your home, a sturdy shelf cleared of breakables will work in a pinch. Make it extra comfortable by adding a blanket or cushion.

Acclimate your cat to its carrier. You cannot punish a cat the same way you would a dog. They prefer encouragement instead. Placing some of your cats favorite items in the carrier can really help. Your cat will want to inspect the carrier and probably enjoy hiding inside. It will be simpler to transport them using the carrier.

TIP! Male felines tend to have a build-up of crystals that present in the urine, so you need to avoid this with proper nutrition. Passing crystals is very painful for your cat, and the vet’s bill will be painful for you.

Feeding your cat different types of food helps ensure they don’t get finicky. If they eat the same food all the time without changing it, that may be the only one they’ll eat later on.

Cats are great mousers. Cats can provide your home with a peaceful serenity, which dogs rarely do. With so much going for them, the cat’s popularity is easy to see.