Adopting A Cat

So you want to adopt a cat? They can be entertaining, loveable, company and independent. Less than 10 per cent of the world's cats are purebred - most just common house cats.

There are different places to look for your kitten or cat. Check out http://www.petfinder.com, your local animal shelters or rescue groups.
Many shelters will vaccinate, deworm, test for feline leukemia and spray/neuter before adoption. However, ask because they all don't do all of these things.

Before you go out and look for your kitty or cat, first consider your needs, expectations and lifestyle. Ask yourself these things:

1. Are you home during the day? If not you might want an adult cat that is low-key, kittens need more attention.

2. Can you afford a cat? You need to pay adoption fee, food, litter and vet care.

3. Do you have time to devote to your cat/kitten? They need attention and love.

4. Are you ready for a long-time commitment because cats live to be 15-20 years old.

5. Do you have time to take care of your cat/kitty? Like feeding, exercise by playing, clip nails and change litter daily?

6. Do you have adequate living space for a cat?

7. Are you allergic to cats?

Now kittens versus cats. Kittens need to be house-trained and socialized.They will most likely scratch furniture, taste your plants and knock things off counters, tables and anywhere they can climb. However, they are cute and adjust quickly to their surroundings.

Adult cats usually have outgrown chewing and other behaviors but may have existing behavior problems like separation anxiety, scratching furniture and spraying.

When looking at kittens/cats at a shelter observe them first. Watch their activity and attitude. If a kitten with other kittens, he should be playing with them.

Put your finger in the cage, does he come up to you? Is he friendly and outgoing? Does he nuzzle and purr when you hold him?

Check these things out too.

1. Does he have bright eyes and clear expression?

2. Is his nose clean and slightly moist?

3. Are ears clear?

4. Is fur shiny and clean?

5. Do you see any fleas?

6. Does he purr and have a playful meow, not a long pleading meow?

Well this should get you going to look for that loveable kitten or cat. Good luck!

Sandy has a blog on cats with cat quotes, amazing facts about cats and information.