If you're familiar with how to take care of them properly, cats are great pets. If you own a cat and want to give it a great life, you need to do your research. You will love the amount of cat advice that has been provided to you here.
Drape Cords
Don't let your cats play with drape cords. If the cat becomes caught in a loop, they could choke to death. This could hurt or kill them. To prevent this from happening, keep any drape cords pinned away from any eyes.
If you own a female cat, you should have her spayed when she is old enough. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! If your cat has been spayed, however, you won't have to worry about this happening.
You should get your cat a tagged collar, even if it is not legally required. Cats can range far from your home and the tag will help them find their way home. Be sure that the pet's name and also your home number are on the tag.
Keeping your cats away from the counters can be hard. After all, cats prefer to stay high so that they can keep an eye out on everything. You may mitigate the problem by providing designated heights for them to use. A cat tower near your kitchen can give them a place to watch you that is out of the way.
When your cat is riding with you in your car, ensure you keep their ears in mind. You may love belting out your favorite tunes as you drive on the freeway, but your cat probably enjoys softer sounds. Turn down the music and let the cat rest.
Put your cat's food on a tablecloth. Cats often like to remove food from their bowl to eat it off to the side. This habit means you will end up with cat food on the floor to clean up. Simply place a cloth placemat that will grab at the food under their plate and then shaken out over the trash. You can put a vinyl one underneath that can be picked up wiped down easily if you prefer.
Try and figure out why kitty is meowing. After living with your cat for long, it's easier to interpret its meows. Possibilities include that she is hungry or wants to be let outside. When you pay attention to the cat's actions and cues, then may grow to understand the cat all the more.
Litter Box
If your cat relieves itself away from its litter box, do not spring into action with punishment. Many times, this is caused by failure to properly clean or place the litter box. If your punish your car, he or she is just going to become scared of you.
Keep old, worn scratching posts. This is the condition that cats most appreciate. If you throw it away too soon, that cat may look to your furniture for some clawing while it slowly breaks in a new scratching post.
If adding an additional cat to your home, give the cats a couple of weeks to get comfortable with each other. They might have conflict, hide from each other or swat one another. After the initial period though, they should start to settle and begin to get along like old friends.
Understand that all cats need exercise and play time. Playing is a very common activity shared by most animals. An aging cat may not have as much energy as a kitten, however it will still enjoy a little light playtime. Playing with your cat will help you to form happy and cherished memories to look back on.
Litter Box
Pay attention if you cat does not use the litter box. There are many health conditions that can cause your cat to use the restroom in places other than their own litter box. Kidney or bladder infections may be the reason. If your cat stops going in the litter box, a call to the vet is in order.
Put a collar your cat with your contact information on it. The cat may get out if it has a chance to, even house cats do this. It that is the case, you should make certain they have the ability to get back home.
Never allow your cat to be exposed to phenol chemicals. Lysol, Pine-Sol and many other products contain this chemical. Cats hate the smell of phenol, and for good reason. Long term exposure to it can cause cats to have live issues.
Sticky Tape
Put sticky tape on furniture. A bit of sticky tape on your cat's favorite scratching spot can quickly make the act less enjoyable for them. Check a pet store for this kind of tape. You should also give your cat a favorable alternative by purchasing a scratching post.
Cats get sick from many of the same things as humans. Because your pet is a family member, you are around them enough to know when they are not feeling very good. Always take your cat to the vet if you suspect illness. It can be dangerous to avoid taking your cat to the vet when it is sick because there may be serious conditions that need checking. A vet can check for these.
Cats are wonderful pets, but must be properly cared for. If you want your cat to thrive, take the advice here to heart. Keep the tips most important to you in a place you can find later. With the love and care that you provide it, you will make sure that your cat has a happy and healthy life.