Owning a cat can be fun and rewarding for any age group. However, bringing a cat into your home does require some forward planning. When he/she arrives they will want to explore their new surroundings and get acquainted with everything as quickly as possible. You can help to speed up the settling in process by preparing your house before their arrival. Apart from purchasing all the necessary equipment, you will need to cat proof your home, check out your local boarding facilities and choose a veterinary surgeon.
There are several basic and essential items that you will require for your new cat.
Litter tray, cat litter and litter scoop - This will always be required if your cat stays indoors.
A covered tray will prevent any spillage.
Cat food - It is probably a good idea to find out what food your cat has been used to, so that you can feed the same. This will help with the settling in process.
Basket and bedding - Make sure it is as warm and comfortable as possible.
Pet carrier - This will make visits to the vets or boarding kennels easier and safer.
Collar and tag - even if your cat stays indoors, there is still a chance of it getting out and becoming lost.
Brush and comb - It is important to keep your cat's coat in good condition.
Toys and scratching post - These are important for your cat's health and well-being.
Many of these items, along with food, neutering or spaying, annual inoculations and pet insurance, can be costly. You must, therefore, consider the cost involved in owning a cat before rushing out to get one. As cats can live for over twenty years, your decision should not be made lightly.
Not buying a dog for Christmas, should also apply to cats. As well as expense, it is important to consider your present circumstances before purchasing a cat. Any major upheavals in your home such as building work, decorating or large gatherings of family and friends could be frightening for your new arrival. It makes much more sense to wait until everything has quietened down and everyone is more relaxed.
Deciding on the type of cat you wish to purchase - pedigree or non-pedigree, kitten or adult cat - and where you are going to purchase it from, is something else you must decide. As well as personal preference, your decision should also be based on your circumstances. For example, a young kitten may not be suitable for an elderly person, just as an older cat may not be suitable for young children. However, with the right person, both can make extremely rewarding companions.
If you spend a large amount of the day out of the house, then it might be an idea to consider two kittens or cats. Two will be company for one another, especially when you go away on holiday. Having more than one may be additional expense and work, but in the long run, they will be more content and less destructive around the house.
Non-pedigree Cats/kittens - come in all shapes, sizes, patterns, colours and coat lengths. There are obviously plenty of rescue organisations looking for homes for unwanted cats and kittens so, unless you know someone with some kittens that are looking for good homes, this could be a good place to start. Although the right kitten can make a wonderful companion, one of the downsides of purchasing a non-pedigree kitten is that you will not know exactly how it is going to turn out - as with all animals, every breed has its own characteristics.
Pedigree Cats/kittens - These are obviously more expensive and with over a hundred breeds to choose from, your research could take a little time. Apart from reading through books on cat breeds, you could always visit a cat show, which will give you the opportunity to view as many breeds as possible and provide you with valuable links to breeders. Buying a pedigree kitten also gives you the opportunity to view the parents and see the final size, fur length and characteristics of the breed.
When choosing your cat, particularly if you have young children, make sure that it is used to being handled and is not frightened. It is also best to check your cat/kitten over for any signs of ill health. Check the eyes; they should be bright and free from any discharge. The ears should be clean and free from waxy deposits, as this could be a sign of ear mites. Your cat's coat should be clean and soft with no signs of parasitic infestation. Finally, the stomach should be plump and soft, as any hardness could be a sign of worm infestation.
When you bring your new companion home, it is also very important to introduce her/him to all members of the family and that includes other pets. Any existing pets could begin to feel neglected if the new cat gets all the attention, so you must ensure that everyone gets their share. Once your cat settles in to its new life he/she will hopefully become a much loved and valued member of the family.
By Ian White ©2007 cat-breeders.biz
Author Ian White is founder of cat-breeders.biz [http://www.cat-breeders.biz] Those seeking cats can locate and match with Pedigree breeders. cat-breeders.biz automates the matching of Cats for sale with kitten wanted entries, with daily email notifications to all parties. Matching cat lovers with pedigree breeders worldwide [http://www.cat-breeders.biz]
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