What to Considerations Before Getting a Cat
Know what you’re getting into before you get a new cat. Cats despite their reputation as being aloof, are not animals to be ignore. You shouldn’t get a cat unless you’re prepared to spend time with your pet. If you’re new to cats, you may not realize that there are certain things and needs that are specific to cats. First time cat owners may be surprised when they learn their cats regularly will scratch, jump, play and spit up.
- Cats are hard wired to scratch. Instead of trying to prevent them from scratching, you will want to train your cat to use a scratching post.
- Cats will jump on top of furniture or other high places in order to learn and observe human behavior.
- Playing and talking with your cat is important to their well being. Plan to spend time with your new friend.
- From hairballs to vomit, some cats will regularly spitting up or clear their throat of hair balls.
Your Living Environment
If you don’t own your home, then your landlord will likely determine the feasibility of you owning a cat. Some landlords won’t allow a cat, so look for living environment that does. You can go online to search for apartments that do allow cats. As you narrow your search, you will want to consider the landlords specific rules and the physical environment.
Does your landlord require declawing? Are cats allowed outside? Is there room in your rental for more than one litter box and scratching post? Is there an addition security deposit because of the cat? Is it a safe outside environment should your cat be allowed outside or gets out by accident?
Becoming a Cat Parent
Your local animal shelter is one the best place to find a cat. Adoption is a responsible choice given all of cats that must be euthanized due to a shortage of homes to go to. Many shelters put the cats through adoption tests as well as immunize and microchip them.
Kittens that are less than eight weeks old are usually are cared for in a foster home until they are old enough to adopt. These kittens will have become use to people and the shelter may have some insight into the kitten’s behavior and personality. Many smaller shelters will not euthanize and will do all that they can to find homes for the cats they rescue. At shelters, you can find kittens, adult cats and strays that are available for adoption. Even after the ordeal of being captured and caged, stray cats can be trained to be well-behaved.
If you are going to have only one cat, consider adopting an adult cat that is used to being by itself. There are advantages to adopting an adult cat. With an adult, you will have a better chance at knowing the size and personality of your friend.
If you are planning a two cat family, you might think of adopting two kittens from the same litter. Having a sibling as a playmate will lessen the stress for the kittens. You can ask a shelter if they have older kittens and at what age the kittens were taken from their mother. Kittens that were foster cared for in a home with children with frequent handling can make for a more social and loving pet.
