Just like many other types of pets, a cat has needs that the responsible owner must attend to. Grooming a cat is quite different than grooming a dog, however. There is a little extra work involved with keeping them looking good and clean. The following article has some tips for you.

Check out your local shelter if you are thinking about getting a cat. Shelters are filled with beautiful cats, and the fee for adoption will basically cover the needed vet care. Adopting a cat this way helps to save their life and cut down on unwanted animal births.

Cats like to get into all sorts of small spaces. If they have a collar, this can be a safety issue if they get stuck. If your pet is wearing a breakaway collar, it’ll detach if it’s pulled too hard. This could help save your cat if it gets caught in a tight spot.

Older cats will appreciate a heated bed; you can use a heated tile to create one! Use a 12″ terra cotta tile and heat it by putting it in a 200ºF oven for 20 minutes. You should wrap it with a towel and place it under the bed your cat uses. Change every few hours if you like.

Taking your cat to the vet is part of being a responsible pet owner. A routine check-up should happen annually, and more often if necessary shots are due. Cats need to see a vet right away if they have health issues, injuries or conditions that require immediate attention.

Flea Products

Dog products shouldn’t be used on cats. Some can be quite dangerous, and even deadly, when used on a cat. Flea products are a great example of this. When used on your cat, flea products for dogs can be lethal. After your dog receives a flea treatment, keep your cat away for at least a few hours.

Location is key when placing a litter box. Don’t put it in a busy area, and keep it away from your cat’s food. Also, minimize the smell by making sure it is a well ventilated area. Your cat will certainly appreciate your efforts, and you will too!

Cats are great pets, but little ones may not understand that they are fragile. It is important to show your child how to approach and handle a cat. Give them examples of how to be gentle with it and what should and should not be done. Cat’s bones aren’t quite as strong as dogs, so they must be treated gingerly.

Do you have both a dog and a cat? Most dogs will not hesitate before munching on your cat’s food. This is why it is necessary to have two separate feeding areas. This will ensure they don’t fight over food or water, too.

Don’t get mad at your cat if it urinates outside the litter box. Usually this is a sign that you haven’t cleaned the box recently. If you get mad, they’ll never use the box again.

Do not throw away your cat’s scratching post because it is starting to look very old and worn. When a post is worn, your cats may enjoy it more. Ditching the structure may alienate your cat, making it more likely to turn elsewhere in your home for its scratching needs.

Aired Cat

Think about the extra work before buying a long-haired cat. Shedding is a major issue that you will have to face. You should only get a long-haired cat if you are prepared for the extra grooming and cleaning. Long haired cats often have hairball problems.

Does it seem like cat hair is everywhere? Cats can shed quite a bit; therefore, it’s important that you maintain proper grooming habits by brushing them often. If your cat is a big shedder, you definitely want to brush him often. Brushing can help prevent their fur from matting or tangling.

Taking your cat to the vet regularly to get proper vaccinations and check-ups will ensure that your pet enjoys a long and healthy life with you. Not unlike kids, kittens require vaccinations and check ups every so often so that they do not get sick. 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.

If you have a female cat that is in the process of giving birth, make sure you provide her a spacious area. The process generally takes about three hours, so you must exercise patience. If it has been more than six hours and you believe more kittens are still inside your cat, you need to get her to the vet right away.

When a dog wags it’s tail, it’s telling you that it is excited or happy. Cats wag their tail for a different reason. Tail wagging in a cat usually means he is thinking of attacking or running away. If you happen to be cuddling with your cat when the wagging occurs, be prepared to loosen your grip!

If you can, keep your cat inside and close to you. Indoor cats typically live longer than those who live outside. Roaming around the house doesn’t cause as much risk as roaming the wild.

Providing your cat with good grooming will make it shine. You control how healthy your cat looks and feels. Any time you spend improving the health and happiness of your cat will make you a hero. Use all of the tips in this article for a happier cat.