Choosing a Perfect Cat, continued

And Keeping Your Perfect Cat Healthy and Happy

Time Considerations When Choosing a Cat

Although there is a popular belief that cats are independent and don’t need much attention, making them good pets for busy people, this simply isn’t the case.   Many cats may not be as attention seeking as most dogs, but cats are social animals and crave human attention.  If you don’t spend time playing and petting your cat you will likely have to deal with problem behaviors. 

Of course choosing a cat that is full-grown rather than a kitten will make a difference in the amount of time you will need to spend with your cat for the first few months and choosing a cat breed that is more independent may work best for your lifestyle, but all cats need some attention.  They are after all, a living breathing creature. 

There are other time requirements that should be considered: cats must be fed, groomed, possibly walked (more about this at >>cat care link, and last but not least everyone's favorite - litter box maintenance (see article - Litter Box & Your Cat)

Cost considerations when choosing a cat

Of course you expect there to be costs involved with choosing a family cat.  But if you make the mistake of the “impulse buy” and bring that adorable “free” kitten home you may not have thought this part of cat parenting through.  There are some inexpensive ways to make sure your cat has what he needs link>> but in general there are expenses that are unavoidable.  The very basic things your cat will need:

1. A good quality cat food;
2. to be spayed or neutered (this is an absolute, unless you have a pure bred you are planning on breeding);
3. vaccinations;
4. emergency care if necessary and a veterinarian you trust;
5. litter box and a continual supply of clean litter;
6. grooming tools - yes even a short haired cat needs brushing to prevent hair-balls.
7. Toys to combat boredom and to prevent damage to your furniture, a scratching post.

Space Matters When Choosing a Cat

There’s a couple of ways to look at what is meant by space.  Let’s talk about space in the sense of two very important things for cats.  First, your space and cat claws and fur.  Cats whether they are considered a “long-haired” or a “short-haired”  will shed some on your clothes, furniture and carpets and in the air.  Cats also have a natural need for scratching to sharpen claws.  If they are not provided with something to "scratch" -- a scratching post or other acceptable place -- they will use your furniture and possibly your window coverings.  All of this can be minimized by regular brushing and nail clipping, cover cloths on favorite sleeping areas and a proper scratching post.

The next space issue is how much room is required.  A cat can get along in a studio apartment as long as they are provided with enough toys and activities to keep them stimulated.  I am a very strong believer in “indoor only” cats, >>link  for their safety and the safety of the bird population. ( And this can work well with a well placed window seat (inexpensive at your local pet store/online) or a more elaborate window box etc. 

No doubt there are many questions running through your mind as you consider choosing a cat: “male vs. female,” “pure bred or rescue kitty,” “kitten or adult cat?” and finally “what is the best breed to choose for my family?”  

For information to answer these questions and more go to: Choosing a Cat Wisely  - What breed? Male or Female? Cat or Kitten?