Choosing a cat
Are you considering getting a cat?
Cats are very clean and can make good companions for those with the time and energy to devote to them, but remember that they are generally independent and don’t always like to be handled or stroked. If you are looking for an affectionate pet, then a cat may not be for you.
If you’re thinking of getting a cat, then it’s worth doing your research before hand to make sure that a cat is the right pet for you, and that you are aware of what a cat needs from you emotionally and financially.
What do cats need?
- Companionship - to be with other cats or people for at least part of the day. If you are out of your house or flat a lot, it may be worth considering getting two cats so they can keep each other company
- A balanced diet – remember to make sure there are no bones in your cat's food as these can be very harmful
- A constant supply of fresh, clean water
- A cat flap – your cat needs access to a garden or safe place to play, climb, exercise and hunt away from busy roads. Cats need to come and go as they please
- A litter tray – they will need to be trained to use it, and it needs to be kept clean otherwise your cat won’t use the litter tray
- Somewhere comfortable and warm to sleep
- Regular vets’ treatment – injections and vaccinations, worming, flea treatments, teeth checks and neutering, and to be taken to the vet if they are ill or injured
- Regular brushing – daily for a long haired cat
- A scratching post
- A collar with a bell so birds are warned if your cat tries to attack, an identity tag, and to be micro-chipped
- To be looked after when you are away on holiday
- Cat insurance – find out more
Warning: Cats have a tendency to jump from heights so make sure that if you have a balcony, that it is enclosed and secure. Make sure that you keep upstairs windows closed.
If you are ready for a cat, then you need to think about what type of cat breed is best suited to you, and where you should get your cat from. You should also consider getting cat insurance for your pet which will help with any vets’ fees arising from accidents or illness.
What type of cat should I get?
Different breeds of cat can have very different personalities and temperaments. Birmans are generally placid, and both Siamese and Maine Coon can be very vocal.
If you have young children, then it’s worth researching which breeds of cat are comfortable around active children, and which breeds have quieter or more jealous temperaments. It could be sensible to get an older cat rather than a kitten. Abyssinian, American and exotic short hair, Birman and Burmese are known to be child friendly, whereas American wire hair, Bengal, Bombay and Cymric may be unpredictable or jealous, and can prefer to live in a quieter, more laid back environment.
Where should you get your cat from?
If you are getting an older cat, then it’s worth going to your local rescue centre, RSPCA or Blue Cross, where you can offer a good home to an unwanted cat. Rescue animals are checked and vaccinated, and are re-homed with people and families whose needs best suit each other.
If you are looking to get a kitten, then make sure that you get it from somewhere where you are able to see it with its mother. This way you can assess the temperament, and you will know that it is being properly weaned.
- A kitten should not leave its mother before it is eight weeks old
- The kitten should be well cared for
- It shouldn’t be nervous of humans
- It should be curious when you approach it, not scared or aggressive
- There should be no discharge from the kitten’s eyes, nose or mouth
- Think about getting two kittens if you are out of the house a lot – two female cats will be better together
Note: On average a cat will live for 12-14 years, but they can live for up to 20 years
Bringing your kitten home
- Try to bring your kitten home when someone will be at home with it for at least the first few days
- Leave the kitten to explore its new environment, or to hide and sleep. Wait for it to come to you to be stroked and talked to
- Provide an area for the litter tray away from the feeding area. Ensure the litter tray is kept clean
- If you have other pets, introduce them to the kitten gradually. Allow an area for the kitten that is theirs and they feel safe in
- Feed your kitten four to five times a day. Try to continue with the food that your breeder has been feeding it. This will eliminate any undue stress for your kitten and ensure that its stomach is used to the food. If you want to introduce a different diet, then do it gradually
- Register your kitten with your local vet
- Insurance – get cat insurance for your new pet
Cat Don’ts…
- Don’t pick a cat up by the scruff of its neck or the front of its body as you can cause injury
- Don’t leave upstairs windows open when your cat is in the house as they are keen jumpers
- Don’t allow children to pull the cat or kitten around. Teach them to handle and stroke it properly
Useful websites about cats:
www.rspca.org.uk
www.bluecross.org.uk
www.pdsa.org.uk
www.cats.org.uk
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