PetParents.com has the information you need to care for your cat, from basic care to warm-weather tips.

Warm weather brings everyone outdoors. But extended periods of time in the great outdoors or with other animals means possible exposure to fleas for your cat(s) as well as your house. Get the facts about protecting your pets from fleas, and becoming an expert at parasite patrol.

The right products can protect your cat from fleas.

Basic Care

Good pet care – from kitten to adult cat – is essential to having a happy feline. The following tips will help you start off on the right paw:

• Stay up-to-date on all vaccines.
• After vaccines have been administered, monitor interaction with other pets.
• Protect your pet from harmful parasites including fleas that can irritate your animal. Your veterinarian can recommend the appropriate control such as Advantage^® flea control for cats.
• It is important to spay or neuter your pet (unless you are a knowledgeable and experienced breeder and are planning to breed). Follow your veterinarian’s recommendation for spaying or neutering your pet.

The heat of the moment
Even when it’s not summer, cats can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

• Always make sure your pets have access to plenty of shade and cool, clean water.
• NEVER leave your pet in the car, even for a very short time.
• The American Association of Feline Practicioners recommendation is to keep cats indoors. Indoor cats are often healthier cats.

If your cat becomes overheated, immediately get your pet to a veterinarian or nearby animal hospital as soon as possible.

Pet-friendly gardening
Be cautious when gardening. Plant food, insecticides, and more than 700 types of plants can be fatal if ingested by your cat. If you use fertilizer, keep your cat away from that area until it's been washed into the soil.
 
With safety measures in place, both you and your furry friend can enjoy the long, lazy days of summer. For more tips on summer pet care visit www.nofleas.com.

Keep warm with winter care
Winter's cold air brings many concerns for responsible cat owners. Keep the following precautions in mind:

• Antifreeze has a pleasant taste. Unfortunately, even very small amounts can be lethal. As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze can be deadly to a cat. If you think your cat has consumed antifreeze, contact your veterinarian right away
• Liquid potpourris are popular household fragrances commonly used during the holiday season. Exposure of cats to some types of liquid potpourris can result in severe oral, dermal and ocular damage
• Rat and mouse killers are used more commonly during colder weather. When using rat and mouse bait, place the products in areas that are inaccessible to your cats
• Avoid pet exposure to electric cords and holiday decorative lights. If they are chewed, they could electrocute your cat. Cover up or hide electric cords and never let your cat chew on them
• Lilies that may be found in holiday flower arrangements could be deadly to your cat. Many types of lily, such as Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Easter, Stargazer, and the Casa Blanca can cause kidney failure in cats
• Remember during the holidays that many veterinary clinics have limited office hours. Never give your cat any medications unless under the directions of a veterinarian and keep in mind many medications that are used safely in humans can be deadly when used inappropriately

Source: Cat Fanciers’ Association