Becoming a cat owner is a big decision. Sure cats have a history of being independent pets, however this doesn’t mean you don’t have to take care of them. There are a number of things to consider when caring for a pet cat. The article below will illustrate what things you need to know.

If you find you cat is harming furniture or other objects, it may be bored. Keep a few safe toys around for your cat to play with. Scratching posts can also deter your cat from scratching your furniture. Or, build a small cat house out of cardboard. Your cat will love having a place to hide, and the cardboard can also be used to scratch on!

Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. If your couch is starting to look like it’s been put through a shredder, it’s time to invest in a nice scratching post or cat tower. Put cat nip on it to attract them to it. It may take some time, but it should eventually work.

If your cat is pregnant, set up a comfortable, safe place for her to have her kittens. A big cardboard box equipped with a pillow and blanket is good. Place it in the back of a closet or other out of the way place. Keep food and water dishes nearby.

Do you have more than one cat? If so, then you should have more than one litter box as well. Having one for each of your cats will give them multiple spots to go. If the odor gets too much you can add a little baking soda to the litter to freshen it up.

If your cat goes outdoors a lot, the chances are good that they come home filthy once in a while. When your cat is especially dirty or smelling like a skunk, you should make an appointment with the local groomer. Groomers will be gentle with your cat, resulting in a less traumatic experience.

When the cat’s litter box starts to become rough and worn at the bottom, it is time to replace it. If you leave it this way, it will cause waste to accumulate in damaged areas. Your cat may be very offended by the odor and decide to use the bathroom somewhere else in the house.

Most cats love to lounge right on your lap. As cozy as this can be, it is not always convenient. If your cat has a favorite spot, such as on your lap at the computer it can be hard to get things done. Getting a pet bed for your cat and perching it right next to your chair can help satisfy your cats need to be near you.

When getting a small kitten to eat dry kitten food, be patient. At first they usually just play with food. It may take a little while, but they’ll eventually learn that they are supposed to eat it rather than toy with it. If the food is moistened first with milk, a kitten may take to it faster.

Cats love to climb trees. This is a natural tendency, that can be hard for some indoor cats to control. If you find that your cat is literally climbing up your curtains, it is time to invest in a cat tower. This will provide your cat a place to climb, in a safer and less destructive way.

Medical conditions and other dietary factors may make it necessary to switch your cat from moist foods to dry formulas. Cats are finicky enough already, and many resist the change. For the first week or so, mix the dry food with a small amount of warm water to soften it up. Gradually decrease the liquid until your cat will eat the dry food. If you try this approach, do not allow the moistened food to sit for longer than 20 minutes; it could spoil.

As you think about the different types of cats you can bring home, ask yourself if you can handle a vocal cat? While each cat is different, certain breeds are significantly more vocal than others. Siamese cats, for example, are known to meow, mumble, and yowl at all hours of the day and night. If you want a companion pet, this chatty breed could be a perfect match.

When disciplining a cat for bad behavior, you must catch him in the act, or discipline is futile. You must also never hit your cat, as this could hurt him and damage the relationship you have with him. Instead, try using a squirt gun, giving him a gentle squirt when you catch him engaging in bad behavior. This will eventually teach him that there is an undesirable consequence for what he is doing, causing him to think twice before he does it again!

Make sure your indoor cat has something to occupy him while you are gone during the day. While your furry friend will spend a lot of time sleeping, he also needs something, or someone, to play with and stimulate his mind. Leaving him without toys or the company of others can quickly turn him into a trouble maker who destroys your house.

Make sure to stay up to date on the required vaccinations for your kitty. Vaccinations can prevent serious illnesses, and they are very important to your cat’s overall health. Take the time to visit your veterinarian annually to make sure your pet is always up to date and remaining healthy.

As was mentioned in the beginning of this article, there are many things to consider when owning a cat. Be sure to use the information provided if you are a cat owner or are seriously considering getting a pet cat. When you take care of your cat, your cat will take care of you.