Cats are very interesting and loving pets to have. Cats are so independent, which works out great for you if you’re not home all the time. If you have a cat or are considering getting one, take a look at the handy advice below so that you can be a better owner and give your pet the quality care it deserves.

Prevent your cats from playing with drapery cords. Cats can potentially strangle themselves on these cords so it is important to protect your cat from this potential danger. This can definitely hurt them, and it could even kill them. Pin the cords of your drapes up where your cat can’t get to them.

Make sure you keep all the recommended appointments with your cat’s veterinarian. They should get their vaccinations and have a full check up. Make sure you keep the same veterinarian for your pet throughout its life. Your veterinarian needs to know about your pet’s history, and your cat will feel more comfortable if you always take her to the same vet.

If your cat is older or sick, a heating pad may provide comfort. Simply heat a terra-cotta tile in a 200 degree oven for 20 minutes. Put the tile inside a towel and place it under the cat’s bedding. You can even switch it out every few hours.

If your cat is outdoors, it needs to have a tagged collar. Cats sometimes travel a bit when outside, and a tag prevents any mishaps due to your cat being lost. Ensure that you at least put the name of your cat and your personal phone number on this tag.

Spritz a little bitter apple on electrical cords to protect your cats. Keep your cords covered if you feel like your cat is hellbent on chewing them. Tuck loose cords into old toilet paper or paper towel rolls. Put away electronics that have tempting, thin cords when you’re not using them.

Don’t allow your cat to get bored too often. Your cat needs plenty of exercise. The unfortunate thing is that many owners of cats don’t realize this. If your cat is bored, it might develop a depression, obsessive compulsive behaviors or ruin some of your furniture. Therefore, ensure your cat has enough space for exercising and playing. You need to provide your cats with something they can climb and scratch.

Cats and small children may not always mix. You need to show your children how the cat should be treated. Children need to know how to hold a cat and what sorts of play a cat likes. Cat’s bones aren’t quite as strong as dogs, so they must be treated gingerly.

A tablecloth should be made for your cats. Cats like to make a mess when they eat. That can mean a bigger mess for you to clean. Think about putting a placemat underneath the bowl or make your own tablecloth out of fabric.

You should try your hardest to figure out the reason that you are hearing your cat meow. If you stay around a cat for a period of time you will figure out what their verbal cues mean. She will let you know when her demands are for food or when you need to let her out. Watch their cues to learn more about them.

Be careful if you leave a kitten with a young child. If children are younger than five years old, pets ought not be left with them. You may not have noticed a problem when you see them together, but very kids do not really understand they can accidentally harm or kill a kitten. Wait until your child gets older, and pay close attention to whether or not they’re mature enough to hold or handle a tiny pet.

Cats love high spots. Make sure your cat has a safe place to play. You can have a cat tree or even a strong wall shelf. Install a small bed for your cat or a comfortable blanket.

Feeding them lots of different foods can lower their chances of becoming finicky eaters. When you give the same thing day after day, it becomes boring.

Feed canned food to your cat. It is usually more expensive than dry food, but it is more beneficial. Your cat will get more water and more vitamins and protein. 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.

Keep a breakaway collar and tag on your cat. Even if it’s an indoor cat, this is important. Cats love to explore, and if they see an opportunity to go outside, they will take it. Tags with your veterinarian’s info and your contact number should be worn. This is especially true for cats with medical conditions.

Litter Box

If you notice that your cat has stopped using its litter box, you’ll want to contact your vet. Many feline health conditions can cause a cat to urinate and defecate in random places outside of their litter box. A urinary infection or a kidney problem could be responsible for your cat’s behavior. Speak with a veterinarian if you have a cat that has these issues.

Dogs let you know when they are excited and/or happy when they wag their tails. While cats are also prone to tail wagging, they do it for very different reasons. Tail-wagging in a cat usually means a conflict or that they’re deciding to flee or pounce regarding a situation. If you happen to be cuddling with your cat when the wagging occurs, be prepared to loosen your grip!

A fun, intelligent and loving cat is a great pet for your family. If you want to be responsible with your animal, however, there are things you must learn. This article has provided you with a great base of information. This will help your cat enjoy a high quality of life.