No matter what type of litter box you buy for your cat, make sure she can easily get into and out of it. Be especially careful when you're buying a box for a small kitten, because high sides, a cover, or a flap over the entrance may make the box too hard

Never feed dog food to your cat. It simply doesn't have enough protein and essential amino acids to meet a cat's nutritional needs.

Never pet a cat on her tummy near the back legs. Cats have a kicking reflex that will cause them to kick out and scratch you.

Cats can get upper respiratory bacterial and viral infections--in other words, colds. But we can't catch our cats' colds and they can't catch ours. If your cat is coughing or wheezing, or has persistent discharge from her eyes or nose, she needs to see a veterinarian.

Always support a cat's hindquarters when you pick her up. A comfortable way to hold her is to rest her against your body with her front paws on your shoulder and your arm under her rump.

A timid cat will feel better if he has a safe hiding place in every room. A covered cat bed or a little kitty tent placed in a quiet corner of each room will help him spend less time under the bed and more time with you.

 Use an artificial tree with a steel pole and VERY prickly branches on the inside of the tree. They can't get their claws into the steel pole to climb it, and the prickly branches on the inside of the tree. They can't get their claws into the steel pole to climb it, and the prickly branches deter them from using the branches as perches.

If your cat likes to chew houseplants, grow a pot of grass for her instead. "Cat grass" kits are available at most pet supply stores.

Many cats like to be picked up and held, but only for a short time. The instant your cat begins to fuss or struggle, put her down.

Feed your cat in a quiet area of the house, where she is unlikely to be disturbed. Cats feel vulnerable while they're eating and appreciate the peace and quiet.

fice

The time to read a cat care book is before you bring your cat home. This way, you'll know just what to do when kitty arrives.

As a courtesy to your veterinarian, always trim your cat's nails before you take her in to the vet's office

A cat in a car needs to be in a carrier. Letting your cat wander free in your car be dangerous for her and for you.

If you keep your cat's litter box in the bathroom, the steam from your showers may make the litter damp. Keep the box uncovered so the litter can dry out quickly.

Cats are tough and will often hide the signs of an illness. When your cat suddenly looks ill, she may have been sick for awhile. Take her to the veterinarian.