Smart, graceful, and stealthy are all things cats are. These are the wonderful traits you get when owning a cat. Cats can take a lot of work and this article can help you out. This article has a lot of useful information in good cat ownership. Read on!

Though things may appear to be fine, you should always schedule regular medical checkups for your feline pet. Your cat should have regular well visits, as well as all the recommended vaccinations for his age. Try to keep the same vet during the life of your pet. This also allows the vet to become more familiar with your cat’s unique health needs and personality.

TIP! When your female cat is old enough, it’s vital to get her spayed. Whether or not she typically goes outside, she may escape while in heat and you might have kittens! Your best bet is to have your female cat spayed.

It’s not easy convincing your pet that the kitchen counter is a no-cats zone. Cats enjoy going into high places so that they can see what’s going on around the house. Making a place high-up for your cat can solve this issue. One way to keep your cats from continuously jumping on the counter is to install a cat tower near the problem counter.

You may want to have a microchip implanted in your cat. Even indoor cats can decide to run away at a moment’s notice, escaping through an open window. Tags and collars are great, but they don’t always stay on your cat. They can also be a risk, should they get snagged on something. Microchips are very small, and you can note your name, address and phone number in there. Most organizations that deal with animal care can scan your cat for microchips, and because they are implanted, they won’t get lost.

You may get much better prices on medications online. 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, if your cat is on a regular medication, you can save quite a bit by buying it online.

TIP! Avoid letting your cat get bored. Your cat needs plenty of exercise.

Remember that very young children can be a bit too rough with a cat or new kitten. Make sure that you teach your children the proper way to handle a kitten or cat. Teach them which activities are good and how to properly pick your cat up. Cats have weaker bones than dogs so should be treated carefully.

Do you own a dog and cat? Dogs will eat cat food right up. You should keep your cat food away from the dog. That also means they don’t fight about water after eating the food.

Be careful when leaving your cat with your children. Up until your child is five, children shouldn’t be alone with your pet. They’re not really mature enough to know how dangerous a kitten can be. As they grow, you will be able to decide when it is the right time for them to handle a cat or kitten without supervision.

TIP! Most cats are very nocturnal. This means nighttime is an active time for your cat.

There is no need to spend hours trying to litter train your cat. This is natural to them and does not need to be taught. It’s not a good idea to rub your cats paws in litter. Some people think this is the way to train. It isn’t.

It would be a good idea for your cat to get used to a pet carrier. Understand that cats don’t react to punishment as well as dogs. Encouragement is more likely to get them to respond. Inside the carrier, put a favorite toy and blanket. Leave it open in an area the cat will see. In time, the cat will head inside and be happy. Transporting the carrier with your cat inside makes your next trip out much easier.

Feed your cat quality cat food. Read the ingredients, and make sure a source of protein, like fish or chicken, is near the top. Avoid brands that use non-meat fillers like corn. Cats are carnivores and need animal protein to stay healthy.

TIP! Put the litter box in an ideal location. It should not be placed in a high traffic area, and it should be far away from the cat’s food.

Make sure your cat gets plenty of opportunities to play. Many animals like to play, and that includes humans and cats. While older cats aren’t near as energetic, they still enjoy playing often. Spend some time enjoying your cat.

Think about how much extra care is entailed in bringing a long-haired cat into your home. While the long hair on a cat is beautiful, it doesn’t look so beautiful all over your home. Unless you’re committed to taking care of the furry mess, avoid getting cat with long hair. Not to mention cats that have long hair are more prone to getting issues with hairballs.

Litter Box

TIP! Your cat can take lots of time to groom themselves to what they consider “perfect.” If your cat is long haired, this may cause hairballs.

Place the litter box for your cat in an open area. Your first instinct may be to hide it away out of sight and out of smelling range. Make sure that your cat can get to its litter box very easily. You want your cat to feel comfortable using their litter box. A litter box located in the basement should be placed on a thick mat or rug.

After reading this article, you have some ideas that you can put into practice. You will become an improved owner. A well-cared for cat is much happier where you can both can enjoy a better relationship. Use these tips to see for yourself.