Cats are one of the most popular household pets for many different reasons. Cats can be terrifically fun, and they can also take care of vermin in your home. It isn’t just rodents, cats can keep other pest animals away.

If your cat is female, then ensure you spay her as soon as you can. Even if she spends her time indoors, it is possible for her to escape while in heat, causing an unwanted pregnancy. Unless you want the hassle of getting rid of kittens, spaying is the best option for your cat.

TIP! It is always important to take your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up.

Think about having a microchip inserted in your cat. One day, your indoor cat might leave through an open door or get outside through an open window. Even if you put a collar or tag on your cat, be careful as they can wiggle out of these very easily and can be dangerous if they get caught on a foreign object like a tree branch. A teeny microchip can hold your contact information. Scanners to read pet microchips are available in every town and they will not come out from under the skin.

Cats will be up during the night more often than not. They are often active at nighttime. If your cats keep you up at night, kick them out of the bedroom. You won’t be able to hear their sounds as they walk around in the middle of the night.

Create a tablecloth just for your cat. Some cats prefer to remove their food from the dish and eat it off to the side. This can result in a mess that needs to be cleaned up. The best thing for you to do is to have a place mat underneath the cat’s bowl.

TIP! If you have a female cat it is important to have her spayed once she becomes old enough. Even if your cat is an indoor cat, if she escapes while she is in heat you might end up with a lot of kittens on your hands.

Think hard before allowing your cat outside. This can be very unsafe for your cat. They can get fleas, feline AIDS or even leukemia. They might get injured by some other animals, vehicles, or people. If you still insist your cat be able to go outside, then do so in the fenced backyard.

Cats enjoy heights. A happy cat is one that has a safe living environment. You should install a cat tree or allow your cat to climb on some shelves. Install a small bed for your cat or a comfortable blanket.

Speak to others about your cat problems. Advice from other people can be very beneficial for you. Use the Internet to share tips with other cat owners and ask your questions or talk with your neighbors, friends or veterinarian.

TIP! You shouldn’t ever use products designed to be used on dogs on your cat. Cats don’t like dog products.

You cannot teach a cat to use a litter box. This is a natural instinct for felines, and it need not be taught. Contrary to what most people believe, it’s actually incorrect to rub a cat’s paw in the litter.

Be sure to carrier train your cat. Cats don’t react to punishment like dogs do. Most of the time, it is better to use positive reinforcement. Place the open carrier in an area that your cat visits often and outfit it with a favorite toy and blanket. Your cat will start to venture into their carrier more often, until they are completely comfortable with it. It will be simpler to transport them using the carrier.

Rotate the variety of food you feed your cat. If they start eating just one type of food without variation, they are sure to grow finicky.

TIP! Cats are usually more active during the night. They get very active at night.

Purchase high quality food for your cat. Always look at the ingredients first. You want to see either fish, chicken or beef noted. Steer clear of food made primarily of corn and fillers. Cats are carnivores and need animal protein to stay healthy.

Let your cat take its time when you add a new cat to your home. They may seem like they’re fighting all the time. But, eventually, they will get used to the idea, and begin to tolerate, and even enjoy, each other’s company.

Make sure that you play with your cat as often as possible. Of course, all mammals like to play, regardless of age or species. While a senior cat probably won’t be very rambunctious, the right type of toy will get them interested. Take time and play with your cat regularly.

TIP! The cat’s litter box should be placed in the right spot. Try to keep it away from areas of household traffic and away from your cat’s eating areas.

Cats and dogs provide two different benefits to a home. A cat will seek out small rodents for you and love to be part of the family. Cats have any number of ways to contribute to family life, from providing love and affection to keeping vermin populations down. It’s easy to see why so many people have fallen for the company of cats.