Cats are definitely mercurial creatures. They might appear to be independent, but they really do enjoy your company. They can be difficult to understand at times, but nothing compares to a cat purring. You should keep reading to learn how you can properly care for your beloved pet.

Cats love to squeeze into tiny spaces. If you keep a collar on your pet, getting stuck in one of these spaces can be very dangerous. A breakaway collar will let go if it is pulled on too tightly. This will help you save your cat’s life.

TIP! When considering a new pet, make sure you visit the area shelter first. Sometimes, you may find the cat of your dreams at a shelter.

You shouldn’t ever use products designed to be used on dogs on your cat. Cats are known to have severe negative reactions when exposed to products designed for dogs. Flea products can be especially harmful. Your cat may die if you use dog flea products on it. In fact, your cat should be kept away from your dog for several hours after the dog has been treated for fleas.

Don’t allow your cat to get bored too often. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. Sadly, this can be easily overlooked. Cats who get bored can actually become depressed or display other undesirable behaviors. Provide your cats with the toys and space it needs. Indoor cats will appreciate having a structure they can climb on or a dedicated scratching post.

Look online for cat medicine. There may be times when you cannot purchase medication online, such as in an emergency; however, monthly medication, such as flea medicine, can be bought online. But for routine medication purchases, you may find a discount of 50 percent online.

TIP! If you own a female cat, make sure the cat is spade when she’s old enough. Even if she spends her time indoors, it is possible for her to escape while in heat, causing an unwanted pregnancy.

When your cat is riding with you in your car, ensure you keep their ears in mind. Although you might enjoy jamming to your music, understand that cats prefer peace and quiet. So, keep your volume down, or turn it off to give your cat a better travel experience.

Litter Box

You shouldn’t be training your cats for litter box use. This is something that comes naturally and is not learned. Some individuals believe they should carry their cat to the litter box and rub paws into the litter. This actually can be quite traumatic for a cat.

TIP! Make sure your cat has a collar and tag if outside. Cats can range far from your home and the tag will help them find their way home.

Get your cat used to a carrier. Cats and dogs do not usually respond the same ways to punishment. Cats are better trained by using patient encouragement. Take their favorite blanket and place it within the carrier. Then leave the carrier with the door ajar in a frequented spot. Soon that cat will walk into the carrier on its own. Transporting your cat inside the carrier will then become much easier.

Give your cat canned food. Although dry food is usually less expensive, canned food is better for your cat. Canned foods are also richer in fat, proteins and will help hydrate your cat. This food is easier to chew for old cat. Go ahead and talk to your vet, but canned food is favorable for cats.

If you just own one cat but are considering obtaining another one, then you should ensure you allow a few weeks for your old cat and new one to become familiar with each other. They may be leery of each other at first and fight. However, cats should eventually learn to co-habitate properly.

TIP! Your house can really get torn apart by a cat’s claws. If you have problems with a cat that shreds furniture, invest in a durable scratching post.

If your cat uses the bathroom more than normal, or if they suddenly stop using the litter box, think about taking them to the veterinarian. Cats may show this behavior if they develop an infection of the urinary tract, or some other health issue. Some inexpensive antibiotics can clear up a potentially dangerous illness.

Think about extra care before you take home a cat with long hair. There is no denying that long-haired cats are beautiful, but that beautiful coat takes a lot of work and also means a lot of shedding. If you don’t mind cleaning, get a long-haired cat. Hairballs are something that you will often deal with if you own a fluffy cat.

You should get a collar with your contact information and make sure your cat wears it all the time. Even if your cat lives in the house, he could always get out. When your cat gets outside unexpectedly, it’s your responsibility to enable others to help your cat find their way home again.

TIP! You may want to have a microchip implanted in your cat. Even cats that live their lives entirely indoors can suddenly escape out a window or door.

Some foods that you like to consume daily might not be good for your cat to eat. Onions, garlic, grapes and green tomatoes are among these foods. If your cat eats these things, they could become very sick. Milk is another food to stay away from.

If you own a declawed cat, do not let it outdoors. It can’t defend itself with no claws. Indoor cats are the only ones that you should declaw. It is important to note that if you are declawing a cat, only the front claws on the cat should be removed. Don’t have the back claws removed, since cats don’t use them to scratch up your house.

Cats are a very difficult animal to understand sometimes. Use the advice you have just read to give your cat the care it deserves. Anyone can benefit from having a cat and when properly cared for, a cat can be someone’s best friend.