Finding the Perfect Cat or Kitten for
You and Your Family
- By Niall 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.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Niall_Kennedy
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