A cat can make a wonderful addition to your family. If you’re considering adding a cat to your family, read this article. These tips are helpful for all cat owners who want to live a happy life with their cat.

Make sure you keep all the recommended appointments with your cat’s veterinarian. Cats need vaccinations to keep them healthy, and your vet can keep an eye out for any other health issues. For the most consistent pet care, choose one veterinarian and stick with them. That way, the doctor will be familiar with the history of your cat.

TIP! Your home likely has no small spaces a curious cat won’t want to investigate. If they’ve got a collar on, this may put them in danger as it can get stuck.

If you have an old cat, you can help make its bed more comfortable by placing heated tiles underneath it. Heat a fabric covered heating pad in the microwave for a couple of minutes, making sure that is not too hot to the touch. Cover with a small blanket or towel, then place it beneath your pet’s bed. Change it out every few hours if you feel the need.

Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. Tags can save you a lot of trouble if your cat gets lost. You have to be sure you have your pet’s name and number written on the tag.

Scratching Post

TIP! Be sure you have a vet that your cat sees regularly so it stays healthy. A yearly visit for a regular check-up is important, with more frequent visits for shots as required.

Cat’s claws can really put a dent in your furniture. If your beloved feline friend is shredding and damaging parts of your home, try investing in a cat tower or a scratching post. Redirect your cat to the scratching post when they start to go after your furniture. Catnip can be put in the posts or on the tower to help train the cat to use it. It may take some time, but it should eventually work.

It may prove quite a challenge to make your cat stay off counter tops. Cats enjoy high places so they can see what is happening around them. Give them an alternative. Placing a cat tower near the kitchen will help the cats to not lay on the counter.

Your cat should be acclimated to a carrier as a kitten. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Encouragement is usually a much better option. Put their favorite toy and blanket in a carrier. Leave it somewhere they always go to. The cat will be drawn to the carrier, where it will feel safe and comfy. Transporting the carrier with your cat inside makes your next trip out much easier.

TIP! Never use something that is intended for a canine on your feline. Cats are known to have severe negative reactions when exposed to products designed for dogs.

Although you might find its appearance unappealing, don’t toss a scratching post when it’s getting particular worn and frazzled. To your cat the post is just right. If you replace it with something new, your pet might seek out something a little more worn to scratch – like your furniture.

If your cat is urinating a lot or in areas away from the litter box, they may need to see the vet. It could be an indication of a serious health problem. Affordable antibiotics can solve concerns that may otherwise be quite serious.

Keeping your cat up to date on vaccinations and annual check ups can keep your cat in good health and provide a longer life. Your cat needs these periodic checks and particular immunizations in order to stay healthy. When you have a cat, it becomes a member of your family, so you’ll want to ensure that it’s as healthy as possible.

Cat Wags

Dogs wag tails out of joy. When a cat wags its tail, it means something very different. When a cat wags its tail, it can mean that it is conflicted or that it is trying to decide if it should run away from a situation or attack. If a cat you are holding starts flicking his tail, then it is time to put him down.

Put a collar on the cat that lists your name, address, and phone number on it. Even house cats run the risk of getting loose. It that is the case, you should make certain they have the ability to get back home.

TIP! You may want to have a microchip put into your car. Even indoor cats can decide to run away at a moment’s notice, escaping through an open window.

Some food you eat isn’t good to feed your cat. These can include chocolate, grapes, onions and tomatoes. They can really hurt a cat if ingested. Too much milk can also be a bad thing for a grown cat.

Don’t let a cat that’s had its claws removed go outside. The cat won’t be able to fight back if other animals attack it and that could get it hurt or killed. Indoor cats are the only ones that may be declawed. Even so, you will only want to get the claws up front removed. The back claws are left because these won’t scratch your furniture or floors.

Don’t give cats human medication. If you have a sick cat it is best to take them to someone who specializes in animal sickness, such as a veterinarian. Drugs and medicines designed for human consumption can cause serious health problems for cats, and in extreme cases, can even be fatal.

TIP! Cats are usually great for kids, but smaller kids may be too rough with them. Teach your kids the right way to hold a cat.

A cat is an amazing pet to own. They can help you to unwind and can bring you a great deal of comfort. In order to make your cat’s life (and your time as a cat owner) happy and healthy, you have to be prepared to be a responsible owner. Following the guidelines you’ve just read will allow you to improve the quality and quantity of your cat’s years.

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