Pet Articles
Finding the Perfect Cat or Kitten for You and Your Family
Finding the Perfect Cat or Kitten for You and Your Family
Author: NS Kennedy
Some people say they are exclusively "cat people," meaning they
only want to have a cat as a pet. That doesn't mean that just
any cat will be the right companion. When choosing a cat to be
your companion, be certain to make the choice that will work
best for both you and the animal.
An athletic, highly energetic cat is fun to watch, but a cat can
be a challenge to care for. A shy, sensitive cat probably
wouldn't thrive in a home with lots of hullabaloo. The first
step to choosing a cat is evaluating your lifestyle so you can
find a cat with similar needs.
Some people only want a purebred, while others take great
delight in their basic domestic crossbreed. Hair length is
another decision to be made; long-haired cats require daily
brushing and combing, but tend to shed less than short-haired
cats. Do you have the time needed to raise a well-behaved
kitten, or would a mature, mellow adult be a better companion?
Once you have decided on what the right cat for you will be
like, it's time to start the search.
Where Can You Find a Cat?
* Breeders: you should spend time researching to find a
reputable breeder with years of experience * Animal charities:
these are usually a great source for a first time pet owner. The
experienced and dedicated staff will be able to give you advice
and knowledge * Friends or neighbours: this can sometimes be a
good source, as you will know where your pet has come from. *
Never buy through personal advertisements in papers - you don't
know what you are getting
Whether you look for your feline friend at a local animal
shelter or from a breeder, take your time and ask plenty of
questions. When you find a cat that catches your attention,
spend some time watching her, and watching her watch you. Does
she vocalize to get your attention or act aloof? These behaviors
can give you insight to a cat's personality.
Ask for the opportunity to interact with the cat. Is she shy
around strangers such as yourself, but confident with her
caretakers? Or is she skittish with everyone? Remember that a
cat acts differently when a stranger is present, and that cats
in shelters often act very different than they usually would
because of the stressful environment. Most humane societies and
animal rescue groups gather a history on each animal they take
in. This can tell you what the cat's likes and dislikes are,
whether it is comfortable around children or other cats, etc.
If you have other cats or dogs at home, consider their
personalities when choosing a cat. If your existing cat is older
than 10 years and used to being the only cat in the house, she
might not welcome a newcomer. A dog with a high prey drive will
be provoked by a high-energy kitten. If you have no pets at
home, consider adopting two cats. Many animal shelters have
special pricing for "two-for-ones," and the cats make great
companions for on another when you are not home.
When you bring a cat into your home, you make a commitment to
always meet her needs. Advances in cat nutrition and veterinary
medicine mean that many cats live 15-20 years. If you buy a
kitten for children remember the cat will be part of the family
long after your kids have left home! Before you get a pet, be
sure you can take care of it for life.
About the author:
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