Getting a Cat |
| Written by catsfacts.org |
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There are a number of things to think about once you have decided to get a cat. Where you are going to find your cat? Are you looking for a pedigreed cat from a breeder? A non-pedigreed cat will also make a fine pet. Perhaps you will buy a cat from a pet shop, take in a stray or get a cat from a shelter. Buying a cat from a pet shop or taking in a stray can mean that you do not know much about the cat's history and any medical conditions that it may have. A shelter will provide you with information about the cat's health, give the cat its necessary vaccinations and neuter it. There is also the psychological feeling of satisfaction that you get from the knowledge that you have "rescued" an animal. Many shelter cats will be older cats, rather than kittens. 
If you adopt an older cat, make sure that it is used to living with humans. If you adopt an adult feral cat, be prepared to have a cat that will eat the food you give it, but that will not like being around people very much. When you purchase a cat from a reputable breeder, you will be provided with a full medical history of the cat. You should be able to get an idea of the temperament of a purebred cat. A top show cat will be very expensive; but a purebred cat that is not suitable for showing or breeding will be less expensive and make a great pet. Make sure the cat does not have any hereditary illnesses. Another issue to consider is how much time you will be able to spend with the cat. Are you away from home for a large part of the day? Some cats enjoy being left alone for long periods, while others need lots of attention. It is not a good idea to leave a very young kitten on its own for more than a few hours at a time. If you want a kitten but will have to leave it alone, consider getting two kittens, so they can play with each other and keep each other company. You should make sure that everyone in your family is involved in your decisions. How will tasks like feeding, grooming and cleaning the litter tray be apportioned among family members? Is anyone in your family allergic to cats? People who are allergic to cats are actually allergic to a protein in the cat's saliva. Sometimes this allergy can be alleviated by bathing the cat or wiping it down with a damp sponge. Allergy medications are also available. However, if the cat allergy is extremely severe, it might be best not to get a cat. If you have children, they need to understand how to treat the cat. A very small child will have to be supervised around the cat until the cat and the child are used to each other. Do you have other pets? Think about how they will react to the cat. A dog will usually accept a cat, but be careful when you introduce them and give them a chance to get used to each other. Make sure that your cat doesn't have a chance to get to your birds, fish, mice, hamsters or gerbils. If you get a new cat and do not have its full medical history, be sure to have a veterinarian see the cat as soon as possible. The vet can also give your cat any necessary vaccinations and have it neutered. Your cat should have identification. This can be a tag on the collar or a more sophisticated microchip under the skin. These organizations represent some of the many groups that educate people about responsible pet ownership and can be contacted tor more information: |