Cats have been the companion of choice by many for hundreds of years. Cats have also inspired countless works of art, including songs, plays, and films. So, it’s easy to understand why cats think they rule the world. The following article will show you how to best care for your feline friend.

Groom your cat. A cat requires regularly brushing and combing. Doing it constantly can help you keep their coats clean. Doing this will also help alleviate hairballs and excessive shedding. Keep your cat looking at its best by grooming it well.

TIP! When looking for a new cat for your home, contact a local animal shelter. Shelters have lots of great cats available, and your adoption fee often covers key veterinary services.

If you own a female cat, it’s crucial to spay it at the appropriate age. It is best to spay your cat, even if you want to keep it as an indoor pet. If your cat has been spayed, however, you won’t have to worry about this happening.

Cats are frequently nocturnal in their habits. This means that they will be the most active at night time. Try closing the door if your cats are keeping you awake at night. This will ensure you sleep much better, without cats jumping into bed with you.

Cats and small children may not always mix. Teach your kids the right way to hold a cat. Help them learn how to pick up a cat and care for it. Keep in mind that a cat’s bones are much more fragile than a dog’s.

TIP! A vet trip should happen for your cat yearly. Cats need special shots to keep them from getting sick, and the veterinarian will check your cats overall health.

If your cat constantly meows, you need to try to figure out why. Over time, you will pick up on the reasons why your cat is making this gesture. They may want outside or may be hungry. When you pay attention to the cat’s actions and cues, then may grow to understand the cat all the more.

Acclimate your cat to its carrier. You cannot train a cat the same way you train a dog because they react differently to punishment. They need positive reinforcement. Placing some of your cats favorite items in the carrier can really help. In time, the cat will head inside and be happy. As the cat becomes used to being in the carrier, it will become easier to transport them in it.

If the cats scratching post is looking tired and worn out, never throw it away. While it doesn’t appear clean and new, your cat probably thinks otherwise. For a cat, it is comfortable and familiar. Ditching the structure may alienate your cat, making it more likely to turn elsewhere in your home for its scratching needs.

TIP! Do not use dog products on your cat. It is possible that a dog’s product could cause a serious adverse effect on a cat.

You should feed your cat food out of a can. It is usually more expensive than dry food, but it is more beneficial. Canned food generally provides more nutrients, protein and fat as well as liquids. Aging cats will find it easier to chew. Canned food is usually a great option for your cat, but talk with your vet.

Make sure your cat gets plenty of opportunities to play. In fact, play is a common activity for all mammals, including people and cats, no matter their age. While a senior cat probably won’t be very rambunctious, the right type of toy will get them interested. Make sure you spend time doing fun things with your cat.

Aired Cats

TIP! Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. Cats can go far from home and without a tag they could become lost forever.

Think about how much extra care is entailed in bringing a long-haired cat into your home. Long-haired cats shed constantly, and the fur ends up on your clothing, floors, and everything else in your home. Unless you are prepared to do more cleaning, don’t buy a long haired cat. Long-haired cats usually suffer from hairball problems too.

One way to get a cat to use the litter box is to move it to a different place in the house. The cat instinctively feels vulnerable when using the litter box, so make sure it’s in a location that’s totally quiet and safe. Good examples are laundry rooms, basements and other areas away from the hustle and bustle of the home.

When a dog wags its tail, the reason is because it is happy for some reason. When a cat wags its tail, it means something very different. A cat wags its tail when it is upset. If you are petting your cat and its tail begins to wag vigorously, stay away from the cat. It may be ready to attack you.

TIP! Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. Buy your cat a scratching posts to focus its attention off your furniture.

Any difference in the environment of your home is easily detected by the keen sense of smell that your cat possesses. This may cause some problems when introducing new beds, scratching posts, or food dishes. Be prepared for your cat to be wary of the new item initially. As the item becomes a part of your home’s natural smell, your cat will become more comfortable with it.

Keep an eye out on panting. Panting is quite normal for dogs. Panting can mean your cat is anxious or overheated, but it may also be something very serious. It is important to speak to your vet, specifically if your feline has suffered from respiratory issues.

If your cat has frequent hairballs, and extra brushing hasn’t helped, here are some other tips that may help. Add one teaspoon of pumpkin to your cat’s food. Try also mixing in some water from tuna with the pumpkin. In addition, certain cat foods contain ingredients that are made to prevent hairballs, such as fiber. This may help resolve the issue.

TIP! Pick the right location for your cat’s litter box. Never put the box near your cat’s food, and pick a quiet place away from areas that are heavily used.

Overfeeding your cat can result in serious health issues as he ages. Besides putting your cat at risk for obesity, providing it with too much food can open the door to many other health problems. Keep your cat eating healthy and consistent at all times.

Your cat probably believes that it is the head of the household. But, if you use what you have read here, you may be able to show your pet who the boss is supposed to be. By establishing the ground rules, you can relax and enjoy the benefits of owning a lovable cat.