Similar to people, cats need a balanced, healthy diet which is loaded with nutrients. Without a proper diet, you cat may end up malnourished or overweight. You will learn a lot about caring for your feline friend if you read this article.

A vet trip should happen for your cat yearly. Not only will a veterinarian give a general physical exam, he or she will also make sure they have necessary vaccinations. Try keeping the same vet throughout your cat’s life. This will ensure they know the history of your cat well.

TIP! If you want to add a cat to your family, go to the shelter first to see what is available. Shelters have great pets available for adoption, and the fee isn’t that high.

Part of caring for your cat is taking it to regular veterinarian checkups. A yearly visit for a regular check-up is important, with more frequent visits for shots as required. If there are obvious issues with your cat, it needs to see the vet immediately. Don’t wait!

If you have an outdoor cat, be sure he or she has a tagged collar. Tags can save you a lot of trouble if your cat gets lost. The tag should contain at least the cat’s name and your contact information.

Normally cats are nocturnal animals. It is likely that they will want to play while you are sleeping. If you have trouble sleeping because of cats, you may want to close the door to your bedroom. It also protects your toes from those crafty midnight pounces.

TIP! Take your cat to the vet every year. They need a check-up one time a year, or more if they require certain shots.

Try to figure out the cause if you find your cat meowing excessively. The more time you spend with your cat, the better you’ll understand what its meows mean. This could mean that your cat needs to go out or is hungry. Pay attention to her cues, and you can understand your cat that much more.

Reconsider outside time for your cat. This can be very unsafe for your cat. Cats can attract fleas and other parasites. Cats can be harmed by cars, people and other animals. If you allow your cat outside, make sure you live in a reasonably safe area.

Cats do not need to be taught how they should use the cat litter box. This is the sort of thing which flows naturally. Certain techniques, such as rubbing the paws of your cat in the litter could actual traumatize your cat.

TIP! If you have an outdoor cat, be sure he or she has a tagged collar. Cats can travel far, and a tag will help you find the cat easier if they get lost.

Plan on spending the money for good cat food that contains the nutrients that your cat needs. Check out the ingredients, and make sure meat tops the list. Stay way from cat foods made of corn or any other ingredients that aren’t based in protein. Cats in the wild are meat eaters, and domestic cats need meat to ensure optimum health.

Canned food is an excellent choice for cats. Dry food is less expensive, but there are added benefits to be had in canned cat food. There is more water in canned food and more protein and fat too. For aging cats, it is also easier to chew. Speak with your veterinarian before making any major changes, however in general, canned food is better for your cat.

If you plan to add a second cat to your household, be sure to allow two to three weeks for your resident cat and the new cat to get used to each other. Two cats may fight, hiss, or hide from each other until they become more comfortable. But, eventually, they will get used to the idea, and begin to tolerate, and even enjoy, each other’s company.

TIP! Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If you find your cat shredding your furniture, consider purchasing a scratching post or cat tower.

Frequent or misdirected urination may warrant a trip to your vet’s office. For instance, it may be a sign the cat has a problem with its urinary tract. It could be the sign of other issues as well. Some cheap antibiotics can resolve potential risks for your cat.

Place a collar on your cat that has your name, phone number and address. An indoor cat should also have a tag with this information because he or she can sometimes escape. If your cat were to escape, it’s important for them to get back home safely.

Your diet isn’t necessarily the best thing for your cat; some foods just aren’t good for them. Examples include garlic, grapes, green tomatoes and onions. If your cat consumes these particular foods, it can get really sick. Even though everyone knows that cats love milk, this can actually cause a cat to have an upset stomach.

TIP! If you’re taking a trip with your cat, be sure to protect its ears. You may like music loud and booming, but a cat will prefer lower volumes as their ears are more sensitive.

You should never let your cat use meds that were designed for people. When your cat has health issues, they should be taken to their vet, who will give them any medication they need. When you make the mistake of giving any type of human medication to your cat, it can kill them or cause them some other type of grave medical misfortune.

Try and incorporate dry food into your cats diet. Little kittens need moist food since their baby teeth can’t handle much else. Once they grow up though, dry, harder food will strengthen their teeth and keep them clean. Your cat might enjoy eating more if you mix dry and wet food.

Your cat’s diet is very important to the overall state of his health. When your cat is not properly cared for, its life span decreases significantly. Do what is best for your pet and it will live a healthy and happy life.