TIP! If you want a cat to feel like it’s more comfortable, a heated tile may be able to help. You can heat a terracotta tile in the oven at 200 degrees for about 15-20 minutes.

If you’re not used to cats because you’ve never had one, then you need to learn a few things first. Cats are great to have around and millions of people all around the world are enjoying them as pets right now. Knowing a bit about the care of cats is a useful skill to have, whether or not you intend to keep one as a pet.

TIP! Be cautious about using canine products on your feline friend. Some can be quite dangerous, and even deadly, when used on a cat.

You should always bring your cat to a vet to make sure everything is okay. Cats need vaccinations to keep them healthy, and your vet can keep an eye out for any other health issues. Do your best to keep the same vet for your pet’s entire life. This ensures that your vet knows your cat’s medical history.

TIP! If you have an outdoor cat, be sure he or she has a tagged collar. Cats can roam far, so a tag will ensure you find them quickly when they’re lost.

Be sure you have a vet that your cat sees regularly so it stays healthy. A yearly visit for a regular check-up is important, with more frequent visits for shots as required. If you notice that your cat appears to be experiencing some sort of illness or injury, do not delay a trip to the vet.

TIP! Your cat’s claws can wreck havoc on your furniture. If you find your cat shredding your furniture, consider purchasing a scratching post or cat tower.

Your cat needs a collar and tag if it goes outside. This can help if your cat becomes lost while wandering in the great outdoors. The tag should contain the pet’s name, your phone number and your name as well.

TIP! You may want to have a microchip implanted in your cat. Indoor cats can slip out an open door.

Get a microchip for your cat. You may not have had trouble with your cat getting loose previously, but it can happen at any time by accident. Tags and collars are great, but if a cat escapes them, there’s no guaranteeing they’ll make it home safe and sound. A microchip, on the other hand, is inserted near your cat’s shoulder blades, takes only a second to do, and all of your current contact info can be read through the chip. Many vets and shelters have scanners that can read these chips and since they lie under their skin, they won’t get lost.

TIP! Male cats often develop crystals in their bladder that come out in their urine. This can be prevented with a proper diet.

Cats are generally nocturnal. Your cat will probably be very active during the night. If your cat’s activities are keeping you awake at night, try keeping your bedroom door shut. You can keep them from bothering you at night and getting your feet while you’re under covers.

TIP! Online outlets offer better prices for cat medicine than vets. In an emergency, however, this might not be possible.

Keep smaller children away from pets as they are typically too aggressive. Show your kids the proper way to handle cats. Teach them which activities are good and how to properly pick your cat up. Cats have more fragile bones than dogs so it is important to treat them with care.

Cat Owners

TIP! Try to figure out why your cat makes meowing sounds. As you develop a relationship with your cat over time, it will become easier to determine why she is meowing.

You can tap fellow cat owners for advice if you’re having problems with your pet. You may wish to deal with it alone, but you may need advice from other cat owners. There are online cat forums that allow you to ask questions as well.

TIP! You can tap fellow cat owners for advice if you’re having problems with your pet. You can solve most problems by yourself, but you might benefit from the experience of others.

Feed your cat several different kinds of food if you want to the lower the chances of them becoming finicky. This will ensure that your cat gets a taste of many different foods.

TIP! Do not discipline your cat if it makes a mess outside its litter box. Your cat probably did not use the litter box because it is not well taken care of.

Now you should have no trouble helping your cat to have the best life it possibly can. Cats can get unruly and ruin many things we love. Be wary handling or trying to remove feral cats from your yard. Cats, whether feral or indoor, deserve a loving home.

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