Choosing the Best Cat for you

by bailey
Choosing the best cat for you

If you are thinking of adopting a cat or kitten, allow me to suggest some things you should take into consideration.

Don’t bring home a cat or kitten on impulse. Keeping a cat is a lifetime commitment. Your cat will become a member of your family and your new family member may live up to 25 years. Don’t choose a cat simply for its’ look. A cat is not a fashion accessory it is a living, breathing, intelligent being.

Just like people, cats have varied personalities. You should make sure you and your potential pet have similar personalities. It isn’t a good idea to pick out a cat for another person. Take them with you and share the experience of picking out just the right cat for them.

Are their other people or pets in the house that should be taken into consideration? Cats will, after a period of adjustment, get along with other cats and even dogs.

Kittens are adorable and nearly irresistible. They also require a lot more effort and time then most adult cats. If you have small children in the house then you should make sure your new kitten is at least four months old. Any kitten, however should not leave the litter till at least 8 to 12 weeks old. Do you have the time and patience to train a new kitten?

Think about where you will be getting your cat. Humane societies and shelters have just loads of cats that need homes. You will be helping an animal in need. They usually charge an adoption fee. At my local animal shelter that includes shots and spaying or neutering.

If you are looking for a specific breed of cat then you may want to look to breeders. Breeders are generally the most expensive option but frequently that includes the cats first shots. You can also get a full history of your cats ancestery. Ask your breeder.

Pet stores are not recommended. Pet stores may receive their animals from animal factories where the cats are not well cared for. My local pet store doesn’t sell cats but works with the humane society to place cats. At times they have cats on display for adoption but you should ask first.

Free kittens, reads the cardboard sign or a neighbor has a cat that has given birth. This is still a good way to get a cat. You may want to stipulate that you will keep the cat/kitten after an initial veterinarian check up. This is the least expensive way to obtain your pet.

However you go about obtaining your pet, there will be costs involved. Make sure you can handle the expense of bringing your new friend home. Some expenses to think about are bed, scratching posts, toys, food, food bowls, shots, checkups, pet insurance, spaying/neutering, litter, litter box, collar, tags, and grooming supplies.

There is also a time commitment involved. Time will have to be spent feeding, cleaning, grooming changing the litter box, playing with and training your cat. A long haired cat will take much more grooming time then a short hair. Either way daily brushing is a nice way to spend time with and bond with your cat.

Having a cat in your family can be very rewarding. Think about what is involved first and choose carefully. Good luck.

About the Author
Cheryl Wheeler


Source: ArticleTrader.com