There are some unexpected obstacles that you will face with a cat. When one adopts unprepared, bad things can happen. But, it is impossible to predict every potential issue that may arise. This will ensure you know all you can for a great relationship.

Contact local shelters if you want to adopt a cat. They have tons of amazing cats who desperately need a home. Taking a cat home with you means that a life has been saved.

TIP! Cats love to get into tight, small spaces. There are ways to make sure that their collar does not get stuck.

Cats really enjoy squeezing into any and all small spaces. If they have a collar, this can be a safety issue if they get stuck. Collars designed to release when sufficient force is applied (“breakaway” collars) are a great idea. A collar like this could save your cat’s life.

Cats are partially nocturnal. This means nighttime is an active time for your cat. If your cats keep you up late at night, you should close the bedroom door. They should stay away from you at night and then they will not be able to jump on your feet.

Litter Box

TIP! If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. Simply heat a single foot cotta tile at 200 degrees between 15 and 20 minutes.

You have to place a litter box correctly. The box should be out of the high traffic areas and a good distance from where your cat eats. Make sure it’s properly ventilated to keep smell down. Your cat is certain to appreciate a litter box that is put into a good location.

Cats sometimes will spend hours grooming themselves to perfection. When your cat’s coat is long, it can result in hairballs. If you’ve got a cat with this issue, get it special types of food. Some cat food out there has a special formula in it that reduces hairballs. This benefits your pet and you.

Cats feel safest in an elevated location. To keep your cat healthy, provide your cat with a high place to sit. Placing a shelf or two up high will not take up too much space in your home. The cat will especially enjoy it if you put a blanket on top.

TIP! The litter box for your cat needs to be in a good location. It shouldn’t be put in an area with high traffic and should be far from their food.

Moist, canned food can be a very good option for your cat. Although it is usually more expensive, canned food offers real nutritional advantages. Your cat will get more water and more vitamins and protein. It’s also much softer on older teeth if your cat is getting up there in years. Discuss this with your vet, who may tell you to feed your cat canned food.

Make sure play time is an important part of your cat’s life. Playing is a very common activity shared by most animals. Although older cats won’t be as active as younger cats, they still need a little exercise. Make sure you play with your cat at least once a day.

Be mindful of where you place the litter box. Many cat owners feel inclined to hide the litter box. This litter box must stay in an easy-to-find spot for your cat. Cats are finicky, so you must provide an environment that is not inconvenient or off-putting to the animal. If you keep the litter box on a cold cement floor, put a mat or rug down underneath it.

TIP! Crystals form in urine from male cats. This can be prevented with good food choices.

Your cat should be kept healthy so that it can live a longer life. This can be done by making sure the cat is checked on by a vet and it has its shots. Kids need shots, and so do cats. Your cat is wonderful addition to the family, and must be cared for in the same way that you would treat all members of your household.

Cat Medication

You should never give a cat medication that is for humans. If your cat is sick, take it to the veterinarian and use the medication recommended. Giving the cat medication that wasn’t meant for them can really hurt them or even kill them.

TIP! Though a veterinarian will almost always have a supply of medications that your cat needs, it can be more cost-effective to purchase them from online venues. In emergency situations, buying online may not be a good option.

These tips for training cats can be applied to any breed or age as well as to any location. These tips are the basics concerning cat care, and individual circumstances will apply. More important than anything else is to enjoy every precious moment with you new little kitten.