What To Look For When Adopting A New Cat

So you have explored local pet adoption centers and cat shelters and scoured numerous pet listings to find the perfect cat you can love for the rest of your life! Well, adding a new pet to the family is an exciting and rewarding experience. But, are you really ready to adopt a cat?  Adopting a cat isn’t just about completing adoption formalities but a lot more. It comes with a lot of change for you and the cat, making cat adoption challenging. If you are new to cat adoption, you must reflect on some crucial aspects to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your feline companion. Take note of these considerations for a smooth and successful journey of adopting a cat. 

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First Time Cat Owner Checklist - Key Things to Consider When Adopting a Cat 

Committing yourself to a pet is a major decision and needs to be thoroughly contemplated. Here are a few important things you need to know to help your cat feel safe and happy with his new buddies:

1. Evaluate your lifestyle 

It’s important to understand that cats are a significant responsibility and commitment. They have varying needs and personalities. So before you bring the furry home, consider your lifestyle and living situation. If you have a busy schedule, you would want to choose a cat that is more independent. Similarly, a more social cat would be a good fit if you have a quieter home and lots of time for companionship. 

2. Make sure everyone in the family is prepared for the cat

Adopting a cat should be a family affair and not just a personal decision. It’s important to prepare the entire family for the new feline member. Discuss responsibilities and educate everyone on the cat’s needs and general behaviors. Remember, a united and informed family will create a safe and supportive environment for the cat, promoting a strong bond among all. 

3. Compatibility with other pets

If you have other pets at home, consider their personality and how they might interact with their new buddy. If you have a dog, will it accept and adapt well to a cat mate? This also applies to the cat you are bringing home. Some cats are more social and like being around other animals, while others prefer to be the only pets. 

4. Age matters 

One of the most important considerations worth pondering over is whether to adopt an adult cat or a kitten. While both are good options, you should choose according to what suits your home environment. Since kittens are still growing and highly active, they need socializing to be safe. If left alone for long, they can get into trouble. But when it comes to training, it’s easier to train kittens when compared to adult cats. 

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On the contrary, adult cats, being more responsible, can be left alone. Even if there’s no one at home, an adult would keep himself entertained. Also, the personality of an adult cat will be more evident from the beginning. However, you might need to retrain them if they have formed any unwanted habits over time.

5. Health conditions

When adopting a cat, inquire about their health history. Ask about their vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and any existing medical conditions. If it exists, do your homework on how you will be treating it, and meet its special needs and treatment expenses. 

The Final Say 

And that’s not the end! There are several other considerations, such as grooming needs, personality traits, breed, and supplies and preparations, that you need to think about before adopting a cat. Take time to assess these aspects in advance and prepare well before bringing the new companion home. 

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