Cats are intriguing animals and can make wonderful pets. Cats are so independent, which works out great for you if you’re not home all the time. You can ensure your cat has a rich and healthy life with the following tips.

If your cat is outdoors, it needs to have a tagged collar. Cats can travel a long way and this will help you get them back easier if they’re lost. Be sure the name of your cat and your number can be found on the tag.

A proper diet for male cats will help prevent kidney problems that cause them to pass crystals with their urine. Passing stones or crystals hurts and can cost you a ton in vet bills if they don’t come out naturally. Feed your cat food that is low in magnesium. Always read labels. Products that contain fish are normally much higher in magnesium over ones containing poultry.

Be considerate of your cat’s preferences while traveling. They don’t want to hear you singing at the top of your lungs. To keep your cat calm and collected over the course of your trip, keep the stereo low – or perhaps off entirely.

Cat Owners

Speak with other cat owners about any issues you may be having. Although you might want to attempt to handle the problem yourself, other cat owners can provide you with excellent advice that may help you to resolve it. You can find several cat forums online where you can ask questions, or you can choose to simply call your vet for advice too.

Provide your cat with a drinking fountain. Cats who are in the wild prefer to drink from running water, and this holds true for domestic cats, as well. Cats will respond more positively to streams of water. In fact, some cats prefer running sink water to their own water bowls. A drinking fountain will be good for the environment and can help the cat to enjoy its water more.

Give high quality canned food to your pet cat. Dry food is less expensive, but there are added benefits to be had in canned cat food. It has water content, which is good for cats with bladder issues. For older feline’s, it’s also quite a lot easier to chew. Discuss this with your vet, who may tell you to feed your cat canned food.

Play is an essential element of a cat’s daily life. Just like playtime is important for other types of pets, the same holds true for your cat, despite whatever their age happens to be. Older cats may not have much energy, but they still like to play. Take time to have fun with your cat.

Do you see cat hair everywhere you look? Cats shed a ton, so they must be brushed frequently. If your cat is shedding too often, you should brush it more regularly. This will ensure your cat’s coat is tangle-free and not matted.

Litter Box

Be aware of your cat stopping their litter box usage. Your cat might have a hard time using the litter box because of a health condition. A potential bladder or kidney infection may be the reason for this. Therefore, whenever you notice your cat not using its litter box, call your veterinarian.

Don’t have an outdoor cat declawed. Your cat may be seriously injured or killed because they are not prepared to defend themselves against another animal who may attack them. Only indoor cats should be declawed. The front claws should be the only ones removed. Don’t cut the back claws because they won’t scratch up your furniture or floors.

Don’t give a cat medicine that is intended for humans. If they have health issues, see a vet and give them what they provide. Giving your cat your medication can actually cause your pet serious harm.

Panting is something that you may encounter with your cat. Dogs love to pant. Panting can mean your cat is anxious or overheated, but it may also be something very serious. It is important to speak to your vet, specifically if your feline has suffered from respiratory issues.

Avoid overfeeding your cat, as that may lead to health concerns in the long-term. Eating a lot more than normal can lead to your cat becoming obese and developing a serious illness. Watch your cat’s portions and make sure that you feed him a well-balanced diet.

Many diseases can be transmitted between humans and felines. Because your cat is always around you, you should know whenever your cat is sick. Therefore, if you notice any signs that your cat isn’t feeling well, immediately take them to to the vet. The veterinarian can rule out any serious conditions.

Check your home for openings that a cat could slip through. Cats have the ability to get through small spaces. This is especially true of kittens. Beware of this as you bring a new kitty into your home. Get holes repaired or covered up as you find them.

Think about keeping your cat primarily inside the house. Outdoor cats die younger and end up sick quite often. Some of the illnesses can actually be passed along to members of the household. Let your indoor cat have a place where it can look out a window so that they can get the feeling of the outdoors from an indoor location.

Cats are great to have as pets because they’re smart and can find things to do on their own. If you want to be responsible with your animal, however, there are things you must learn. Use what this article has taught you if you want to be the owner of a cat that does well in life. Your cat will enjoy a full and comfortable life.