Thinking about adopting a cat? Don’t know where to start? In the following sections, we will explore how to pick the right cat for your household, how to introduce it into its new environment, as well as a list of things you will need.
Ask Yourself Some Questions First
Picking a cat is a very personal decision. Some questions to ask yourself before getting one include:
“Do I Want a Specific Cat Breed?”
One of the first things to consider after deciding to adopt a cat is whether you want a specific breed. If you want a specific breed of cat, you may find that you are better off paying a breeder for a kitten.
Although possible to find a specific breed of cat when you go to a shelter, it is extremely rare. If you are not sure you want a specific breed, then the best option is to keep an open mind and check out your local shelter. You may just find yourself falling in love with a kitty you meet.
“Do I Want a Purebred Cat?”
If you want a purebred, you will have to deal with a breeder or a rescue organization. Breeders charge a hefty fee for purebred kittens, sometimes up to $1,000 or more. If you go to a rescue organization, you will have fewer options, but the kittens will often be a little cheaper (or even free!).
“Am I Willing to Adopt from a Shelter?”
The easiest way to find a good cat is to adopt from a shelter. Shelters have limited space, so adopting a cat or kitten addresses the problem of overpopulation. Shelters only charge a small fee, and they ensure your new cat has its shots. Many shelters will also spay or neuter a cat.
“Do I Want a Kitten, Adult, or Senior?”
When getting a cat, it is important to think about their age. Kittens are the most popular but require more work. Depending on their age, you may have to potty train them.
Adult cats (ages 1+) are a great option because they are already trained or housebroken. They are still playful and loving.
Senior cats (ages 10+) are cats nearing the end of their life. Most cats live between 15-20 years. If you are willing, senior cats are a great option for someone who wants a calm, relaxed pet. Senior cats and adult cats are less adopted than kittens but are in need of good homes too. So, if you are not 100% set on a kitten, keep an open mind when visiting shelters.
“Do I Want (or Need) a Hypoallergenic Cat?”
While some cats are better for allergy sufferers than others, there is no cat that is completely hypoallergenic. For this reason, if you are severely allergic it would be better to get a pet that does not have fur or dander.
“Do I Want a Longhaired or Shorthaired Cat?”
When it comes to hair (or fur) length, most people don’t care. However, there are a few things to think about. Longhaired cats will need extra grooming. Cats with shorter fur will need less grooming. Cats with medium or long fur may be more prone to hairballs than cats with shorter fur.
“Do I Want a Male or Female?”
Gender also plays a part in choosing a cat. As with humans and other animals, personality will be different between cats. The biggest difference is that males are often more territorial. However, this isn’t a rule. Female cats can also be territorial.
Understand What Items Your Cat Needs
Adopting a kitten or cat should never be a spur-of-the-moment decision. You should already have purchased certain items to ensure their homecoming isn’t stressful. You should purchase (a):
- Cat bed
- Litter box
- Poop scoop
- Cat tree and/or cat scratching post
- Cat bowls for food and water
- Cat carrier (for car, plane, train, etc.)
- Cleaning supplies
- Cat hairbrush
- Cat nail clippers
- Cat toothbrush
- Cat litter
Here are cat care items to buy as soon as you have chosen your new friend:
- Cat food (kitten, adult, or senior)
- Cat toys
- Cat license tags
- Collar
- Leash (if you plan to take your cat with you out of the house)
Be Patient When Introducing Your Cat Home
Whatever your family situation, introducing your cat to its new home is very important. It is recommended by experts that you start by designating one room in your house for the cat. This room should have a door to keep the cat in and other pets out.
Get to know your cat in their room, their space. Once they are comfortable with you, you can start letting them out into the house for supervised moments. Then, they get used to the house, you can let them explore at will.
If you have kids, it is important to teach them how to treat a cat. Giving your kids cat responsibility, even if it is just an hour of play a day, will help the cat and kids become friends. If you have other animals, start by introducing one animal at a time.
