People have had cats as pets since the beginnings of recorded time. Cats have inspired the songs, poetry and visual arts of many cultures. With the provided history, it’s easy to notice why cats feel in charge. The below article will help you take control over your cat’s care.

Move any drape cords out of a cat’s reach. Keep the cat away from these cords as they tend to form loops when the cat is playing around, and it could accidentally go around their neck and strangle them. This could seriously injure or even kill them. Pin the cords of your drapes up where your cat can’t get to them.

Putting a warm tile beneath the bed of an older cat will help it rest comfortably. Just get a tile and heat it up in the oven for a while to place under the cat’s bed. Keep the temperature of the oven at 200 degrees. Cover with a small blanket or towel, then place it beneath your pet’s bed. Change it frequently if you like.

If you own a female cat, you should have her spayed when she is old enough. This is true even if you think your cat is indoors only. One escape can lead to a lot of small kittens around! A spayed cat is a safe cat.

Do not allow your cat to stay bored all of the time. Cats need stimulation. Unfortunately, a lot of cat owners neglect this. Bored cats will quickly wreck your home or become obese. Spend time playing with them, and go through a variety of toys to find ones they like and will play with while you’re busy, too. If they stay indoors make sure they have a scratching post for climbing.

Put the litter box in an ideal location. Try and put it in an isolated area away from the cat bowl. Also be sure that the cat litter area is ventilated so the smell doesn’t linger. Both you and your cat will reap its benefits.

Male cats often develop crystals in their bladder that come out in their urine. This can be prevented with a proper diet. A cat passing the crystals can be very hurtful with an expensive vet bill to boot. Choose a cat food low in magnesium. Take a look at the food’s label. Cat food with lots of fish tends to have more magnesium, while products with lots of poultry tend to have less.

Understand that leaving a small kitten together with small children can be dangerous to both. This is especially true if your child is less than five years old. Younger children cannot fully understand how to properly handle a small pet. As they grow, you will be able to decide when it is the right time for them to handle a cat or kitten without supervision.

Speak with friends and family when you have difficulty with your cat. You may wish to deal with it alone, but you may need advice from other cat owners. You can also go on the Web and ask your question in a forum.

You cannot teach a cat to use a litter box. This skill is something your cats pick up on their own, not something that can be taught to them. A common misconception is to rub your cats paws into the kitty litter however this isn’t a good idea.

Acclimate your cat to its carrier. Cats can’t be punished like dogs. Cats are much more responsive to positive interaction rather than negative. Place a blanket or favorite toy inside the carrier to make your cat more acclimated to the carrier. Sooner or later, your cat will try out the appealing space and learn to be comfortable in it. Once the cat is comfortable with the carrier, you can transport it easily.

It is important that your cat always where a collar that identifies them. This is necessary even for an indoors pet. A naturally curious cat will readily wander out an open door or window. Make sure the collars have tags with your contact information and your veterinarian’s information as well. Veterinary information is essential if your cat needs medication.

If your cat uses the bathroom more than normal, or if they suddenly stop using the litter box, think about taking them to the veterinarian. This behavior may be indicative of an infection of the urinary tract or some other issue. Affordable antibiotics can solve concerns that may otherwise be quite serious.

It’s important that cats get play time. Play is important for all mammals, even people, regardless of their age. Your old cat will not play as much but will still appreciate the excitement. Make sure you spend time doing fun things with your cat.

Litter Box

Pay attention if you cat does not use the litter box. Many feline health conditions can cause a cat to urinate and defecate in random places outside of their litter box. These problems are generally related to the kidneys and/or bladder. Talk to the vet when your cat goes to the bathroom where they shouldn’t.

It is important to designate a big and comfortable area for your cat to deliver her kittens. Labor can last as long as four hours, so stay patient. If you suspect that there are more kittens inside your cat and it has been six hours of labor or more, you should take your cat to the veterinarian immediately.

Cats often feel as if your home is their domain. Using the given tips, your cat will finally learn who runs the show. Cats are great animals to have around; learn more about them so that you can enjoy them even more.