If you feel like something is missing from your life, consider getting a cat. Millions of cats are out there and need a home. All that is needed is for someone to adopt them and offer proper care. These things can be learned about within this article.

Take your cat to the vet regularly to make sure they remain in good health. They need a check-up and possibly vaccinations. Cats need to be seen by a vet right away if there are injuries or health problems that don't go away.

Make sure your cat has a collar and tag if outside. Cats can range far from your home and the tag will help them find their way home. Have your phone number engraved on the tag.

Spray bitter apple on electrical cords to keep cats away from them. If your cat is especially intent on chewing cords, keep them covered as much as possible. Loose cords can be bundled and tucked inside old paper towel rolls. Personal electronic devices should be stored when not needed to keep their cords out of reach.

Don't allow your cat to get bored too often. They need exercise and they get it through play. 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. Give them toys and things to do. If they stay indoors make sure they have a scratching post for climbing.

Your cat most likely spends quite a bit of time grooming. If the cat has longer hair, it can be the cause of hairballs. If your cat needs assistance with this problem, consider a special diet. Some food are produced specifically for hairball reduction, which will help.

Brush your cat's coat often. Brushing spreads natural oils through the fur and also stimulates circulation. It can help decrease the amount of loose hair as well. This will help you to avoid hairballs, which may cause your cat to choke. Hairballs are caused when a cat grooms itself.

Carriers are great devices for you to have as a cat owner. Cats do not respond in the same way dogs do to punishment. Encouragement is more likely to get them to respond. Place the open carrier in an area that your cat visits often and outfit it with a favorite toy and blanket. The cat will enter it on its own. Once the cat is comfortable with the carrier, you can transport it easily.

Make sure to give your cats different types of food so that they aren't as finicky. If you feed them only one type of food, they may refuse to eat anything else. However, stick with the same brand, and just vary the flavors because cats can have stomach problems if you vary the food too much.

Don't toss your cat's scratching post just because it's starting to look haggard. This is the time when your cats actually most prefer it. When you bring in a new high quality cat perches and wall shelves, the cat may ignore it.

Consider buying your cat a special drinking fountain. A cat will always drink from running water if possible. Cats will respond more positively to streams of water. Many cats prefer running water over their water dish. Also, a cat drinking fountain is better for the environment and allows them to be more natural.

It is important for a cat to have play time. It is pretty normal for all different types of species to have an inner desire to play. While older cats aren't near as energetic, they still enjoy playing often. Take the time to play and have a little fun with your kitty.

If kitty won't use the litter box, try moving it. Just like humans, cats can be sensitive to where they eliminate, so choose a private location if possible. A basement or laundry area might be a good option.

Caring for a kitty is something that is enjoyable and rewarding. You're opening up your home and providing love to a cat that truly needs it. You new little friend will be there for you for the rest of their lives. Take care of him and he will do the same for you.