Cats make wonderful pets. However, if you’re new to cat ownership, you may want to read the paragraphs below. Here you are going to find some ideas on how to properly care for a cat so he or she can live a happy life.

Keep your drape cords away from your cats. The cats will start playing with the cords and they can easily wrap around their necks. This may hurt them or possibly cause death. Pin the cords of your drapes up where your cat can’t get to them.

TIP! Don’t leave drape cords near your cats. These are not great play toys for cats.

Lessen the chances of your cat becoming harmed or killed by spraying all electric cords with something to keep them from chewing it. Bitter apple is a good choice and can be found at most pet stores. If your cat happens to be a champion cord-chewer, you’ll need to use cord covers to protect your cords. Hide those loose cords and keep them out of sight in no longer needed paper towel rolls. Personal electronic devices should be stored when not needed to keep their cords out of reach.

Making sure your cat doesn’t jump on the counters is hard to do. One thing they like about it is they enjoy being high up. Provide your cat with a few high places it can uses. For example, give them a cat tower nearby.

Look online for cat medicine. You can’t always get it online. But, for routine medications, this can be a budget-saver.

TIP! You should make sure your cat stays groomed properly. You should comb and/or brush them on a regular basis.

Are you the owner of both a dog and cat? Understand that dogs will usually eat cat’s food if they can. Try locating your cat’s food in an area where the dog cannot go. This will help prevent any fights that may occur between your animals.

Do not throw away your cat’s scratching post because it is starting to look very old and worn. You may believe that it’s in terrible condition, but cats typically prefer it this way. If you toss it away in favor of something newer, your cat may look for something older to scratch, and that may end up being your furniture.

Canned food is usually the best option for your cat. Dry food can be less costly, but there are quite a few benefits to canned food. Canned food provides more water content for your cat as well as more fat and protein. For older feline’s, it’s also quite a lot easier to chew. Ask your vet, though canned food is often better for your cat.

TIP! Don’t try using dog food or products for your cat. Cats can have strong negative reactions to a product that is formulated for a dog.

Is there cat hair all over every surface in your home? Cats shed a ton, so they must be brushed frequently. If your cat sheds often, you will need to brush him more often. This will help to prevent tangling and matting.

Litter Box

Pay attention to your cat’s litter box habits. If it stops using the box, medical problems could be to blame. Using the bathroom outside of the litter box is linked to a number of cat health issues. Issues like a kidney infection are often behind such behaviors. You should take your cat to the vet if you think there is something wrong with your pet.

TIP! Making sure your cat doesn’t jump on the counters is hard to do. Cats have a natural predilection for staking out a nice elevated place where they have a good view of their surroundings.

Confine a sanitary area of the house for your cat to give birth. Since there are so many kittens, the birthing process can take a few hours. If the time has surpassed six hours and your cat is not finished, take a trip to your vet.

Happy dogs wag their tail. Cats may wag as well, but the meaning can be quite different. Tail wagging in a cat usually indicates a mental conflict that your cat is mulling over, such as deciding whether to flee or attack. Likewise, if you are holding your cat, and he suddenly starts to wag his tail, you may need to let him down to avoid swats or scratches to yourself!

Outfit your cat with a tag and collar containing your address, phone number, and name. Your indoor pet might even get out if you leave a window open. If your cat does get out, make sure that it can get home.

TIP! Always provide your feline with special attention and affection. Most cats crave the same warmth and companionship they give their owners.

Don’t ever declaw cats that go outdoors. It can’t defend itself with no claws. Only declaw your cat if you are serious about keeping them indoors. If you do decide to declaw your indoor cat, do not remove the back claws. Don’t cut the back claws because they won’t scratch up your furniture or floors.

You want to be watchful regarding panting. Dogs normally do pant. Sometimes when cats are upset or too hot they pant, but there are other reasons they can pant too. Contacting your veterinarian is a good idea, particularly for cats that have built up a history of respiratory difficulties over time.

Getting a feline friend is a great decision. The can offer comfort and stress relief. But, you must understand proper cat care in order to have a happy animal. Make use of this article’s excellent advice to improve the level of care you can provide for your cat.