Being a responsible cat owner demands a certain level of care and attention. However, you don’t do this like you would for a dog. Extra care must be provided to ensure they stay clean. Consider this article when it is time to groom your feline friend.

When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. Many shelters have more cats than they can handle and the fees associated with adoption take care of vet visits. You really are saving a life and keeping the feline population in check all in one!

TIP! If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters have a lot of cats in them and you can get one adopted for a small fee.

Regular veterinary checkups are important for the health of your cat. Cats need yearly shots and overall health assessments. When you find a vet you like, stick with them. This is because this person will know your cat and the history of the animal.

If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! Spaying your cat is the best way to prevent this from happening.

Your cat needs lots of affection and love. Think of all the friendship and comfort cats provide to us. Cats need social time with the family just like people do so that they know that they are valued. This will increase the love that surrounds the family.

TIP! If you take your cat with you when you travel, be mindful of their ears. You may think it’s a good idea to listen to loud music on your stereo, but cats generally don’t enjoy this.

Check prices online for your cat’s medication to see if they are cheaper than at your vet’s office. In an emergency, this won’t be much help, of course. For more routine situations, saving 50% by buying online is quite possible.

Be especially mindful of your cat’s ears when you take them on a trip. You and your cat probably have different ideas about the ideal volume for the car stereo, for instance: Remember that your cat’s hearing is more sensitive than yours. If your cat seems upset or agitated, turn down the music and speak calmly to him.

When you buy a small kitty for your children, set the boundaries ahead of time. Let your kids know where the cat can go. It’s also important to let them know that outside doors must be kept closed so that the cat doesn’t escape. If you make the rules ahead of time, you can be sure your kids understand them.

TIP! Make sure that you have a good tablecloth for your kitten. Cats often take food from their bowls to eat on the side.

Cats may make a small mess outside their litter box. Most of the time when this happens, it is because you are not taking proper care of the box. Punishing your cat will just make them afraid of you later on.

Litter Box

Think about where you want to put the litter box. Do not hide the box simply to reduce the smell. The litter box needs to be placed in a spot that your cat can reach very easily. Cats are finicky, so you must provide an environment that is not inconvenient or off-putting to the animal. If your litter box is on a cold surface, place a rug or mater underneath it.

TIP! Do you have both a dog and a cat? Dogs will generally try to eat the cat’s food whenever the opportunity comes along. If you’re having a problem with this, make your cat’s eating area high enough that your dog cannot reach.

When your cat is properly cared for, it looks, feels, and behaves wonderfully. With proper care, your cat will enjoy a long and healthy life as your companion. Anything you help your cat with in terms of grooming is going to be appreciated. You should apply the tips you just read to keep your cat happy and healthy.