If you’re thinking about adopting a new cat, there are many factors to consider when choosing the perfect pet for you. Do you want a kitten or an adult or a senior? Do you want an active and playful cat or one who is more mellow? One who is super cuddly or one who is more independent? Are you home most of the time or always out and about? Are you experienced with cats or will this be your first pet?
There are so many cats in shelters and rescues awaiting their forever homes so you have plenty of options, but it’s helpful to think about what kind of cat would best suit you and your lifestyle before adopting your new best friend.
Time
Cats enjoy the company of other people and do not particularly enjoy spending too much time alone. Cats need enrichment and stimulation and sitting home alone gets boring fast. Daily feedings, litter box cleaning, playtime, and companionship are essential for a cat’s well-being. If your cat doesn’t get adequate attention, they may develop behavioral issues due to stress or boredom.
If you have a busy lifestyle and aren’t home much, consider adopting two cats so they have a friend around when you are out of the house. They will keep other company and tire each other out.
Commitment
Adopting a cat is a lifelong commitment. Cats can live 15-20 years and adopting an animal is promising them a good life for the rest of their life. Cats require daily care, twice daily meals, routine vet visits, and a substantial amount of financial resources. Ask yourself if you’re truly ready to take on the responsibility of feeding, grooming, providing medical care, and offering a safe and stimulating environment with toys, scratchers, cat trees, and all other cat related accoutrement for your cat throughout its entire life.
Personality
Different cats have different personalities, energy levels, and care needs. Kittens require more playtime than seniors, but seniors may require more medical care than kittens. Some cats are more independent and enjoy their alone time, while others crave constant attention and will cry when left alone. Consider whether you’re looking for a playful kitten - or two - or a calmer adult cat. If you have a busy household with lots of family members, kittens or young adults may be happier with all the excitement and noise than a senior cat just trying to sleep. If you work a lot outside the home, a young playful cat may get bored alone and keep you up at night trying to play whereas an older cat will love to cuddle up and fall asleep together. If you lead a quiet life in a calm home, a mellow adult cat might be your best bet.
Experience
If you’ve never had a cat before, an easy-going adult could be a good option. If you’re well-versed in all things cats, a sickly senior, a cat with ongoing medical issues, or a very shy cat might be a very rewarding experience. A cat who has been waiting a long time in the shelter getting overlooked due to medical or behavioral issues would really appreciate a loving home.
Finances
The adoption fee is just the beginning of the money you will spend caring for your pet. You’ll need to budget for food, litter, toys, enrichment, and regular veterinary care. Unexpected expenses, such as emergency medical treatments or pet sitters if you have to leave town unexpectedly, can also arise. Make sure you’re financially prepared for both the routine and unexpected costs associated with pet ownership.
Other Pets and Children
If you have other pets or children, consider how a new cat or kitten will fit into your household. Some cats are more social and adapt well to living with other animals, while others prefer to be the only pet. Careful and slow introductions over the course of a week or two can ensure a smooth transition when welcoming a new pet into the family. Properly integrating a new into the home takes time and patience.
Consider whether your family is ready for the responsibilities of cat ownership and has enough time to care for a pet. If you have small children, you’ll need to teach them how to approach a cat and read their body language. You would also need to ensure they always close the doors and windows so the cat doesn’t run outside. If your cat has a special diet, you’ll need to make sure everyone knows not to feed them anything else. If you travel often, you’ll need to find a reliable pet sitter to care for your cat when you’re away.
Adopting a new pet is a big commitment and there is a lot to consider. Finding the perfect cat for you and your lifestyle may take some time - shelters and rescues are always full of so many wonderful cats and kittens in need of homes - but once you find The One, you will know it and you and your new pet can start a beautiful life together.
Love, Nala
