Although independent, cats still require plenty of care from their owners. Cats have special needs regarding grooming. There is a little extra work involved with keeping them looking good and clean. Many other tips like this one lie below, so read on.

Make sure your cat is always groomed. Cats require frequent brushing or combing. Doing it constantly can help you keep their coats clean. It also helps to reduce their shedding and can cut down on how many times they are spitting up hairballs. A well-groomed feline looks great on their own, but also helps keep a home well-groomed too.

TIP! Check with your shelter before you purchase a cat. There are tons of loving cats there, and the fees often cover the needed vet care.

If your cat ventures outdoors, it’s key to get your cat a collar which has a contact tag. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost. Have your phone number engraved on the tag.

A cat can do a lot of damage to your furniture with its claws. Buy your cat a scratching posts to focus its attention off your furniture. 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 and some corrections, but it can usually eliminate the problem.

Most cats prefer to be mostly nocturnal. This means that they will be the most active at night time. If you have trouble sleeping because of cats, you may want to close the door to your bedroom. This will ensure you sleep much better, without cats jumping into bed with you.

TIP! Cats really enjoy squeezing into any and all small spaces. If your cat gets caught on something wearing a traditional collar they could end up hurting their neck trying to break free.

Your cat needs lots of affection and love. They usually offer us warm companionship, and they require the same. Like humans, a cat has to be around people in order to feel special. They also like feeling important and a big member of the family.

Do all you can to figure out what’s causing your cat to meow. After you have lived with your cat for a while, you will come to know what she wants by her meow. This could mean that your cat needs to go out or is hungry. By listening to your cat, it will be easier to know what they want.

Speak to other people if you’re having cat troubles. Although you might want to take care of things on your own, advice from other people with cats can be a big help. The Internet has many cat forums where you can ask your questions, or simply speak with your vet.

TIP! If your cat is an outdoor cat, then you should ensure it wears a tag collar. Cats enjoy traveling far away, so a tag can help your cat get back home when lost.

Purchase a drinking fountain for your cat. In nature, a cat prefers to drink from running streams. House cats prefer this as well. Cats react better to a moving water stream. Cats will even drink from the tap if they can! Also, drinking fountains are more environmentally friendly and gives them the ability to drink naturally.

If possible, always choose canned cat food. While dry food is less costly, the canned food has added benefits. Your cat will get extra protein and fats from canned food along with some of the water it needs every day. For older cats, canned food chew easier. Canned food is usually a great option for your cat, but talk with your vet.

A well-cared-for cat is a happy cat. It is your job to do what you can to keep your feline friend healthy, happy, and comfortable. Anything you do to groom it, the cat will appreciate. Remember these tips for a happy and healthy cat.