You probably look at your cat as a family member. It’s important then to keep ticks, fleas and other pests away from them. This can be harmful to the health of your cat. Continue reading for some great tips.

Spay your female cat. You may believe that this is unnecessary if your cat stays inside all the time; however, cats almost always find a way to get outside, especially when they are in heat. When this occurs, your cat could get pregnant. A spayed cat is a safe cat.

Cat Needs

Make sure your cat is not too bored. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. The unfortunate thing is that many owners of cats don’t realize this. A bored cat runs the risk of developing depression and obsessive compulsive disorders that may harm them or something in your home. You need to give it new toys regularly and make sure your cat has plenty of space to run and play. An indoor cat needs a good scratching post.

Be especially mindful of your cat’s ears when you take them on a trip. While you may like some good tunes, your cat is going to appreciate other things. Keep the music turned down or off when taking your cat on a trip.

TIP! Cats like sneaking into small spaces. If they have a collar, this can be a safety issue if they get stuck.

Make a tablecloth that your cat can use. Certain cats prefer removing their food from their bowl and putting it on the side to eat it. This habit means you will end up with cat food on the floor to clean up. An easy solution to this problem is a placemat underneath the food dish, or a piece of fabric you can easily wash.

Make sure your kids know the rules before kitty comes home. You can then teach your kids which areas your cat can go into. Be sure that your children understand that an indoor cat must never be allowed outdoors. If your children know the rules beforehand, mishaps are less likely.

Watch kittens around kids. Children under 5 years of age should not be alone with the pet. Their immaturity prevents them from understanding how easily they could hurt the kitten. As children grow, it will be easier to see if they’re mature enough to handle a cat.

TIP! If your cat is a female, be sure to get her spayed when she is old enough. You may not think it’s necessary if you have an indoor cat, but your cat may escape.

High areas are ideal for cats. For a truly happy cat, provide a safe place for your cat to survey his surroundings. You can use a cleared shelf if you’d rather not have a cat tree. You can even lay down a blanket to give your kitty some comfort.

Litter Box

Don’t stress yourself out about instructing your cat on proper litter box usage. This should come naturally for your cat. You cannot teach it to do this. While many pet owners try to introduce their cats to a litter box by rubbing their front paws in the sand, this can sometimes traumatize your furry friend.

TIP! A cat can do a lot of damage to your furniture with its claws. Purchase a scratching post to stop your cat from destroying your home.

Although you might find its appearance unappealing, don’t toss a scratching post when it’s getting particular worn and frazzled. The cats loves it the most in this condition. If you throw it away too soon, that cat may look to your furniture for some clawing while it slowly breaks in a new scratching post.

Your cat will thank you if you avoid phenol in your cleaning products. Lysol, Pine-Sol and many other products contain this chemical. Not only do cats intensely dislike the smell, the chemical can also cause liver damaged if they are exposed to it for a lengthy time.

Indoor Cats

TIP! Most cats prefer to be mostly nocturnal. Do not be surprised if your cat is very active at night.

Keep cats inside as much as you can, or at least close to you or your home. Indoor cats typically live longer than those who live outside. Indoor cats don’t face the diseases and other risks that outdoor cats do.

Be on the lookout for panting. Dogs pant and that is the norm. While excessive panting may be a symptom of anxiety, it may also be a symptom of something more serious. Talk to a vet right away when panting persists.

Your cat is subject to rabies, fleas and fungus if let to go outdoors. While some of these issues can affect a cat that stays in the house, they are more likely to experience this issues if they spend a lot of time outside.

TIP! Your cat needs lots of affection and love. Cats need just as much companionship as they give out.

Parasites can be a problem for most cats, and that includes your cat, too. When this happen, you should help your cat get rid of the pests. You can eliminate them and prevent their return if you use these recommended methods. You and you cat will both be happier.