A lot of consideration and responsibility goes into adopting a cat, but it’s all worthwhile having a furry buddy! Numerous joys come with owning a cat, from hugs to playfulness.
But make sure to conduct your research before you buy cat food and cat toys. There are several things you need to be aware of regardless of where you want to adopt from.
1. Lifestyle Changes
Before introducing a cat into their home for the first time, owners should decide whether they are prepared to make changes to their regular routines. People may believe they lead carefree lifestyles, but having young kids in the house, for example, might make a new cat anxious.
Cats also need routine, so humans should consider whether they are prepared to adopt that schedule, which may involve being awakened at 6 a.m. every day. In light of this, prospective cat parents should look for a cat with a temperament that will fit in its new residence.
2. Adopting Two Cats is a Good Idea
Get two kittens if you intend to become a first-time owner. Both don’t have to come from the same litter, but a couple that is around the same age will suffice.
Even though nearly everyone aspires to own a cat, people aren’t always capable of teaching kitties how to play and use the toilet.
By playing with kittens with their hands, people may unintentionally educate them that biting and swatting are acceptable behaviors.
Cats can experience the single-kitten syndrome on their own, which can result in biting and clawing issues. Both cats are being taught how to use their fangs and claws appropriately by a pal.
Adopting two kittens or cats is simple. Pairs are frequently kept together in shelters, and if they get along, they are adopted out as a unit.
3. Consult a Reputable Veterinarian
Try to find a vet with either separate waiting areas for dogs and cats or one with a large single waiting room with adequate space for both while looking for one, since you’ll need one straight soon.
Look for a cat-friendly clinic with a kecding of how to lessen the stress that cats experience while visiting the doctor. Look for one with qualifications such as from the American Association of Feline Practitioners or Fear Free.
You’ll also want to select a vet that favors praise and encouragement as a training approach and one who will propose nonsurgical treatments to any worries you might have about clawing.
However, science has proved that declawing is bad for cats and harms their joints, it was once a prevalent practice.
4. Financial & Logistical Considerations
You should make sure you can afford the items on the first-time cat owner checklist, adoption expenses aside. Once you take your cat home, you’ll have a ton of things to buy, including toys, food bowls, high-quality scratching posts, litter boxes, and cat trees.
Then there are the ongoing expenses, including food, veterinary checkups, and possible charges if you lease your home.
Resourceful parents can care for their cats for as low as $50 per month. However, that differs according to the region of the nation you reside. Additionally, it excludes expensive veterinary appointments like invasive procedures or chronic illness care.
costs may change with the age of your pet. Many vaccinations are required for kittens, and further blood testing may be necessary for older cats.
Owners may consider clinics or charitable organizations as less expensive healthcare choices, however, a veterinarian might still be required for specific conditions.
Cats will also cost more than ten years of investment. Indoor cats typically live for 15 years, while some are increasingly surviving closer to 17 or 18.
Be ready and patient once you bring your cat or kitten home. The transfer will likely cause the cat to become unhappy and anxious. In addition to a litter box, cat tree, and scratcher, new parents should have food and drink available.
Block off any places the cat may hide if it tries to escape by starting by exposing the cat to the small bedroom or portion of the house.
Place the cat carrier on the floor then open the door when you get home. It’s preferable to leave the cat alone and allow her to travel at her own pace even if she might not depart immediately away.
The cat can view more and more of the home as the days pass, although some cats may spend a week or two at “base camp” before continuing their exploration.
You’ll be putting yourself in the best possible position for years of contented companionship if you adopt your new cat with great thinking and deliberation.
5. Make Sure to Fully Understand the Adoption Process
Before allowing you to adopt, the majority of shelters need you to apply. The requirements for this application are often rather simple. The goal is to confirm that you are capable of caring for your cat and have the means to do so.
You’ll be asked whether you own or rent your house, among other things. The cat will feel disoriented and uncomfortable if you move from place to place frequently since cats prefer a stable and familiar environment.
Another top responsibility for shelters is making sure the environment you live in is secure. In rare instances, they could even dispatch a representative to check on the security of your house.
You might be asked for references during the application process who can attest to your moral character and sense of responsibility. If you’ve ever looked after a pet or pets for someone else, they’ll probably be a valuable resource.
Another reason to establish a rapport with a vet before adopting a cat is that the application may ask you to mention one.
Conclusion
Be patient and kind when adopting a cat. Be patient and understand that cats, like people, require time to adjust to a new environment.
Be considerate and provide a cozy, welcoming atmosphere for your cat. You may be sure that you will be a great pet parent if you keep this in mind.
