Are you thinking of getting a cat or kitten? Whether you are a newcomer (a person that has never had a cat) or an old cat person (age does not matter) let’s explore life living with a cat.
A cat is not a dog. A cat will never react as a dog would when greeting you on your arrival home. However, that does not take away from the sincerity of your cat’s feeling for you.
Did you know that cats have been around for about 50 million years and have lived everywhere on earth except Antarctica? There are more than 65 million cats living in American homes. Cats out rank dogs as the number one domestic pet.
Cats are considered to be one of the most intelligent of all domestic animals. Granted they do not do “dog tricks,” but with patience you can teach a cat many tricks.
Cats are carnivores, which means they are meat eaters. A cat cannot be a vegetarian, as vegetables do not provide the protein and other vitamins a cat needs to survive.
Having a pet, be it a cat or dog, is rather like getting married. First you sphynx cat for sale get engaged (getting to know one another) then you get married (sharing your everyday life) and then hopefully live happily ever after. That statement gives you an idea of the commitment necessary when you decide to get a cat. This “long term” obligation deserves serious thought.
Cats live a long time. My Mr. Whiskers lived for 18 years. A normal life span for a cat can be from 12 to 20 some odd years. So commitment has to be one of your first thoughts.
Can you commit? Granted no one knows what the future may bring and there are circumstances that may alter your life’s plan. The question here is, barring anything unforeseen, are you willing to make the commitment?
If you are looking for a “short term” relationship forget it. The animal shelters and streets are filled with unwanted cats that people have left to fend for themselves.
Having made the decision to get a cat or a kitten. You need to take some time to consider your lifestyle, finances and how much free time you will have to devote to your cat. Yes, cats do sleep a lot, but they need playtime and your time.
Do you have regular business hours or are you on a schedule that is erratic? Cats like routine.
Does your job or current lifestyle cause you to travel a great deal? If you do travel, do you have someone reliable to become the second caregiver for your cat?
Do you currently have another pet? Have you taken into consideration the time it will take to introduce the new arrival to your current pet? Are you on a tight budget? A cat or kitten costs money. There are vet visits, food, toys, grooming supplies and litter to buy.
No matter how tired you are when you come home from work your cat or kitten will need care and some of your time. Remember that your cat has been home all day by itself. I have 3 cats and I work plus I have a husband (all of whom require a great deal of time and care.) I know the value of available time and how it can be frustrating when time seems to be fleeting. Keep this in mind as you mull over your decision to get a cat or kitten.
You have made your decision and you are really going to get a cat/kitten. Where do you go to find your cat? Shelters are a good source, especially if you are looking for an older cat. Shelters usually have a surplus of kittens, too. Breeders are also a great place to look if you are looking for a particular breed of cat. Friends and neighbors often have kittens available.
Do not under any circumstance go anywhere on the “spur of the moment” or on an “impulse” to get a cat or kitten.
Right here and now take a deep breath and make this promise to yourself: ” I will take my time, I will not be impulsive. I will visit with each cat or kitten to see which one likes me and which one I am attracted to.”