Wondering Where To Start As A Cat Owner? Read This Article

Cats are amazing to watch and fascinating creatures. Their independence is ideal for busy folks. The following article will teach you sound advice that you can use to keep your cat happy and healthy.

If your kitty is a female, make sure to plan a spaying once she is of age to breed. It is best to spay your cat, even if you want to keep it as an indoor pet. Getting your cat spayed is the best in regards to prevention.

TIP! Don’t try using dog food or products for your cat. It is possible that a dog’s product could cause a serious adverse effect on a cat.

Check out the shelter if you have plans to get a cat. Shelters have tons of great cats and you can get one adopted for a small fee. Adopting a pet shelter benefits the cat population.

You need to take your cat to their vet for a check-up regularly. Cats need to get shots so they don’t get sick and the vet can check their overall health. Try keeping the same veterinarian throughout your pet’s life. This person will have an excellent understanding of your pet’s medical history.

If your cat ventures outdoors, it’s key to get your cat a collar which has a contact tag. Cats can travel far, and a tag will help you find the cat easier if they get lost. The tag should contain your phone number as well as your cat’s name.

Wrap it tightly in a towel and place it under your cat’s bed or blanket. Change it every couple of hours if you feel the need.

Be certain your cat gets regular vet visits.Cats need routine annual check-ups and wellness checks just like people.Cats should visit the vet right away if any health problems or injuries needing treatment occur.

The litter box for your cat needs to be kept in a good place. Try and put it in an isolated area away from the cat bowl. The area should also be well ventilated so that it doesn’t smell too badly. This will make you and your cat happy.

Flea Products

Don’t use dog portions for your cats ever. Cats often have severe negative reactions to dog products. This is especially true when it comes to flea products. Flea products that are intended for a dog can be fatal to a cat.

Watch kittens around kids. A child less than five years old should not be left alone with a small pet. They aren’t mature enough in order to handle the potential dangers of a kitten. When your children age, you will realize when they’re able to deal with a pet.

TIP! Speak with other cat owners about any issues you may be having. Although you may want to go it alone, it can be helpful to seek advice from other people that have experience owning cats.

Make sure your cat has a collar if outside.Cats can range far from your home and without a tag they could become lost forever. The tag should have at least the pet’s name and the number for contact purposes.

Deter cats from chewing on inappropriate things by using bitter apple. If your cat still prefers to chew on cords, make sure you cover the cords. You can hide away any cords inside the cardboard rolls that are used for paper towels.

Get your cat used to a carrier. Cats and dogs do not usually respond the same ways to punishment. Encouragement is more likely to get them to respond. Put a favorite blanket and toy in the carrier and leave it open somewhere the cat frequents. In time, the cat will head inside and be happy. This will make getting the cat inside easier later.

TIP! Cats need to play! All mammals love to play. While older cats aren’t near as energetic, they still enjoy playing often.

It can be hard to prevent your cat off the counter. Cats enjoy going into high places so they can see everyone and everything. You can try to combat this problem by making high places for your cat utilize.

Try as hard as you can to understand the reason your cat is purring. After some time, you’ll start to recognize what some of the noises your cats makes mean. When you pay attention to the cat’s actions and cues, you can improve your relationship.

If your feline just won’t use the litter box, try moving it to a different location. Cats often don’t go to the bathroom when they feel vulnerable, so move the litter box somewhere quiet. Good examples are laundry rooms, basements and other areas away from the hustle and bustle of the home.

TIP! If you can, keep your cat inside and close to you. Free-ranging cats who spend most of their time outdoors have a shorter lifespan than those that are raised and accustomed to indoor living.

Think twice before letting your cat go outdoors. This can compromise your cat in an unsafe position. Your cat may get fleas or even worse than that. Your cat could be injured by other animals, other animals and even vehicles on the road. If you need to let your cat out of the house, limit it to your own backyard.

Don’t throw away your cat’s scratching post just because it’s starting to look haggard. This is the condition that cats most prefer it. If you throw it away, they may shun the new one and go after your carpet and furniture.

Don’t give cats human medication. A visit to the veterinarian will ensure that your pet receives the proper medication. Pets that have taken human medications face serious injury or worse.

TIP! Keep an eye out on panting. Panting is dogs is normal.

Canned food is usually the best option for cats. Dry food is cheaper, but canned food has more benefits. This food is easier for your older cats to digest. Speak with your veterinarian before making any major changes, however in general, canned cat food is better for your cat.

If you just own one cat but are considering obtaining another one, be sure to allow two to three weeks for your resident cat and the new cat to get used to each other. They may swat at each other at first and fight.

Your cat needs to eat dry food most often. As kittens, cats require wet food because of their tiny teeth. As they get older and get adult teeth, they will have stronger teeth by eating dry food. For picky cats, mixing dry and wet food together is a great option.

TIP! Try using sticky tape if you own a cat. The tape can stop your cat from scratching.

Cats can make great pets. All cat owners should know how to care for their cats in the best ways. Keep the information you’ve read in this article in mind as you make sure you’re the ideal cat owner. This way, your cat can enjoy a fun and fulfilling life.