It can be a thrilling event to welcome a new feline or kitten into your dwelling from a shelter, a breeder, or a cat café. It can represent the start of a lovely companionship. Both of you will go through several transitions when you adopt a cat.
Once you’ve decided to adopt a cat, it’s time to prepare your home and outdoor space for one. Ensure you give yourself enough time to prepare adequately and shop for all the items they’ll need.
The most crucial requirement for your cat is a private, tranquil environment they can call their own. It might be a cozy nook in your living area or a spare bedroom. Such a safe place ensures that your cat spends some time in one area before discovering the rest of your house. This article looks at the factors to consider when getting a cat.
Consider the Cat’s Needs
Do you have the time necessary to care for a pet? Or do you never return home on time? When a cat only lives indoors, they require a lot of attention and love. Most cats prefer traditions and consistency over change. You determine how much time you have to spend with your new cat.
Do you have enough room? A cat requires a secure space and ample outside space to explore. Without an area to call home, a cat won’t feel at ease in its new residence and won’t be able to spend time alone as it chooses without being disturbed.
Another factor to consider is whether you can pay for the cat meals, litter box accessories, and vet appointments. Most importantly, the latter can be expensive, particularly if the cat has a chronic condition.
Consider the Cat’s Personality
Do you like the cat’s personality? Before you choose a cat to adopt, examine the cat, if you can, at different times of the day. A wild, joyful animal might not be ideal for you if you prefer some quietness. The different personalities of cats are comparable to those of people.
Sadly, timid and overly reclusive behavior in rescue cats is rather prevalent. However, with more trust and confidence, this can change into the opposite: a cat who has experienced significant hardship in the past might grow highly devoted.
If you can’t locate your “dream cat” at a shelter, only purchase one from a licensed breeder. If not, give an abandoned cat a new home. The cat will appreciate it.
Consider the Cat Age
A mature cat will require less labor because it is relatively “up and running,” capable of doing things, and knowledgeable about them. On the contrary, kittens acquire their behaviors from their moms and develop their independence early on. However, they continue to master everything from the beginning, notably how to utilize a litter box, just like human newborns.
In addition, kittens are inherently more sensitive to illness. They must be castrated or neutered once they reach a specific age. When you adopt an adult cat, its last owner will have already resolved it.
The starting capital is higher for young cats, and it will take longer to acclimate the cat to your dwelling and teach it the fundamentals of hygiene.
Consider Shopping for Cats’ Necessary Materials
You’ll pick up some crucial items to ensure your cat is at ease and satisfied.
Top of the list are bowls for meals and liquids. Bowls made of metals like stainless steel and ceramic are easier to keep clean and in good condition than ones made of plastic. Ensure that their food and water are in different containers.
Buy a litter box and some kitty litter. Before you discover your cats’ favorite brand, they might need to try a few alternatives. A soft, cozy bed that you can place in a warm area of your house or raised so your inquisitive cat can have an appealing view of everything around them is also necessary.
A pet carrier, plus a harness with a tag to identify it if your cat wanders off, are necessities while taking it to the veterinarian. If your cat is an instinctual hunter, you might want to consider getting one incorporating a bell to help scare away prey. Cats should have access to many toys, such as scratchers and feather teasing devices, to prevent boredom.
Prepare an Exercise Routine
Cats enjoy napping, but also need time to exercise, especially if they live inside. Ping-pong balls or wind-up rodents are entertaining to cats, as are laser guns or toys attached to wands. Keep an eye on your cat whenever it is playing with its toys.
A multiple-level cat tower with treats placed strategically around can promote exploration and provide your cat with a beautiful view of their new house.
Different cat breeds require different levels of excitement and activity. You must understand how much exercise your cat needs.
Get the Cat’s History
Knowing a cat’s history is intriguing and may provide insight into how well the cat will fit into your family and way of life. Many cats available for adoption are homeless or have no known history, but if they do, it’s crucial to find out.
The transition phase will be less challenging if your new pet gets along well with the other people living in your home, including other dogs or cats.
Although most cats are adaptive, it is always advisable to avoid potential problems. For instance, it is better to get a cat that has grown up with dogs and isn’t terrified of them if you already have a few dogs.
Living Happily with Your New Cat Companion
Caring for a cat will provide you with many unforgettable experiences since cats have an enticing way of grabbing their caregivers’ attention. It’s not a coincidence that people address cat owners as “door openers.” The way cats successfully train their humans is remarkable, and they have been accomplishing it for numerous years.
However, it should surprise no one since the human-feline relationship is usually enviable. The cat appreciates the attention you give it, and this can be a wonderful experience for you when this wild animal has such complete faith in you that it sleeps on its back or side (a defensive posture) and beckons you to pet it.