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Pet Medication Home -> Finding a Cat
Finding the Perfect Cat or
Kitten for You and Your Family
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? (continued below)
- 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.
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