The poet T.S. Eliot said that a household will depend upon a cat. A cat enhances any household. There are, however, many reports of cats being difficult and temperamental. Have a better time living with your cat through these tips.

Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Shelters usually have many cats who need a home, and the fees typically include their shots and spaying or neutering. Adopting a cat this way helps to save their life and cut down on unwanted animal births.

TIP! Good grooming is important for cats. Cats need to be combed or brushed regularly.

If your cat is a female, be sure to get her spayed when she is old enough. It does not matter if you an indoor cat; if she gets out when in heat, you can end up with many kittens. Having your cat spayed helps to control the pet population and will save you time and trouble.

Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If you have a cat that is wreaking havoc, buy a scratching post. Entice them to scratch those items rather than your belongings. It may take some time, but it should eventually work.

It’s very important to get your cat microchipped. Even a house cat may end up lost outside, no matter how careful you are. While a collar with a tag is useful, remember that your cat may be able to escape from the collar while they are away. Collars can also harm your cat if they get caught. Microchips are as tiny as a piece of rice and will tell people where the cat belongs. These days, pretty much all shelters and vet offices have scanners that can read these chips, and because they’re beneath your pet’s skin, they won’t ever get lost.

TIP! Cats enjoy getting into spaces that are small. Cats that wear collars are at risk should they become stuck somewhere cramped.

Set boundaries for your children when it comes to having a cat as a pet. Explain where the cat is and isn’t allowed. If you want the cat to be an inside cat, let the children know he cannot go outdoors. Clearly explaining the rules will limit future mishaps.

Do you own both a dog and a cat? Dogs take every opportunity they can get to eat the cat’s food. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. This will help you to be sure that the animals won’t fight over the water either after they’ve eaten all their food.

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. There are online cat forums that allow you to ask questions as well.

Litter Box

If your cat dirties the space near his litter box, don’t punish them. If your cat makes a mess, it’s probably because their litter box is not properly cared for. If your punish your car, he or she is just going to become scared of you.

Make sure to give your cats different types of food so that they aren’t as finicky. If they only eat the same food, they may never eat another food in the future.

Aired Cat

Think about the extra work before buying a long-haired cat. Silky, long hair can be stunning, but that fur won’t look as pretty when it’s on your sofa, clothes, and carpet. If you don’t mind cleaning, get a long-haired cat. Also, give them the right food which is anti-hairball.

Have your cat vaccinated as often as your vet prescribes. Cats need regular checkups, just like humans. You have made your cat a family member, and you have to treat your cat accordingly.

TIP! Use bitter apple on your electric cords to keep your kitty away from them. If the cat likes to chew on cords, its best to cover them as best you can.

If you notice that your cat isn’t using its’ litter box anymore, you need to take note. There are a number of medical issues that can cause your cat to suddenly stop using their box. These problems are generally related to the kidneys and/or bladder. If your pet stops using the litter box then see your veterinarian.

Many foods that are fine for humans are not good to give to your cat. Examples of problem foods include garlic, green tomatoes, onions and grapes. If your cat eats these things then it can become ill or even die. Even though everyone knows that cats love milk, this can actually cause a cat to have an upset stomach.

Keep products containing phenol away from your cat. Lysol and Pine-Sol are two examples of products that contain this chemical. The smell is something that cats don’t like, and it also can lead to liver damage if it is used around your cats for a long period of time.

TIP! Being nocturnal is quite normal for cats. This means that they will usually be quite active at night.

Try putting sticky tape on the furniture if your cat decides to scratch it. A little strategically-applied tape can discourage your cat from tearing upholstery and scratching furniture. Check a pet store for this kind of tape. By keeping your furniture covered with tape and getting a scratching post put up, you will get your cat to scratch that instead.

Cats sometimes fall victim to similar illnesses to humans. They’re a part of your family, so you should know when they’re not feeling well. If you notice something, seek the advice of your veterinarian. The vet will be able to let you know if it’s something more serious.

Owning a cat can be hard at times, but it is worth it. Whether you have a cat that has high energy or low, this advice will help you to better your relationship with your kitty. If you have a happy cat, you will probably be happy too!

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