Cats are often curious and temperamental. They can get by on their own but still enjoy the company of humans. They confuse and even infuriate you at times; however, there are other times that you just love them to death. Here are some great ideas to help you with your furry friend.

Cats are curious by nature, which can end up getting them into trouble. If they have a collar on, this can be dangerous. The advantage to a breakaway type collar is that if enough pressure is put on it, it will just let go rather than strangle the cat. This can make the difference in whether your cat have nine lives or only a couple of them.

TIP! If you’re thinking of getting a cat for a pet, you should look to the local shelter. Shelters always have plenty of cats available and adoption fees are usually very affordable.

Cats can really scratch up your home. If you find your cat tearing up things around your home, buy a scratching post or cat tower. Place this device into an area that your cat frequents, and attempt to get your cat to scratch it rather than the furniture. It might not happen overnight, but the problem should eventually stop.

Your cat needs attention and a lot of affection. Cats are looking for a response in kind in exchange for all of the friendly companionship they offer to humans. Cats have a need to communicate with others to show they are part of the family. They want to feel like a contented and satisfied member of the family.

If you’re getting a kitten for your children, discuss this with them before bringing the cat home. Make sure your children know what rooms the cat can go into and what rooms it can’t. If the cat is to be indoors, tell your children not to allow him outside. Make sure your children understand the rules from the get go.

TIP! Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. Cats are known to have severe negative reactions when exposed to products designed for dogs.

Try to figure out why your cat makes meowing sounds. The more time you spend with your cat, the better you’ll understand what its meows mean. They may want outside or may be hungry. By giving her the proper amount of attention you can better attend to her needs.

Litter Box

It’s important to let your cat see where you place the litter box, but it’s not always a good idea to force your cat to learn how to use it. Cats instinctively understand what to do and teaching is not required. Don’t try to force them into the litter box by rubbing their paws or face in it.

TIP! Do not allow your cat to stay bored all of the time. Play and exercise are both important for cats’ well-being.

Brush your cat often. This helps to stimulate blood flow and circulation, and it will also help to evenly distribute the natural oil your cat’s fur has. It’ll also remove all that loose hair. Hairballs can be prevented this way, which often lead to choking. There will be little need for self grooming and hair build up.

If your cat relieves itself somewhere other than its litter box, it shouldn’t be punished. Many times this occurs because the box wasn’t well maintained. If your pet is punished, you won’t do anything but make it afraid of you.

Splurge on your cat’s food. Ensure that the food your cat eats is very high in protein. Stay way from cat foods made of corn or any other ingredients that aren’t based in protein. Cats in the wild are meat eaters, and domestic cats need meat to ensure optimum health.

TIP! If you need cat medication, consider searching online instead of using your veterinarian in order to find a better deal. In some cases you may not be able to buy online, in the case of emergencies, for instance.

Buy your cat a fountain to drink from. Cats like their water to move. Cats respond well to this stream of water. Many cats prefer running water over their water dish. A fountain keeps the water moving without letting any go to waste.

Getting a second cat is usually beneficial to both, but you have to give the two cats a few weeks to get acclimated to each other. They might have conflict, hide from each other or swat one another. Eventually, they become used to each other and are comfortable together.

Don’t send a declawed cat outdoors for long periods of time. They won’t be able to protect themselves against other animals, and they run the risk of getting seriously injured. Indoor cats can be declawed, though. If you do choose to have your cat declawed, only the front claws should be removed. Leaving the back claws is no problem since they won’t scratch your furniture or floors.

TIP! When your cat is riding with you in your car, ensure you keep their ears in mind. You may prefer loud music as you drive down the freeway, blasting your stereo, but your feline friend likes softer sounds better.

You should never give a cat medication that is for humans. A visit to the veterinarian will ensure that your pet receives the proper medication. You can kill a cat by giving them human grade medications.

Cats can be a strange and mercurial breed, but they are most definitely good companions if you get close to them. The above advice will allow you to give them a better life. Owning a cat is a wonderful experience but you need to make sure that your friends is happy and healthy.

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