Thinking about adopting a new cat this holiday season? Adoption is a fulfilling experience that can bring joy, companionship, and love into both of your lives and it would be great to give a cat a home for the holidays. However, it’s also a long-term commitment that requires careful thought and preparation and it isn’t a decision that should be taken lightly.
Before welcoming a new pet into your home, there are several important questions to ask yourself to help ensure that you are ready to care for a new pet and that you and your new cat are a good match for each other. By asking yourself these important questions, you can ensure that you’re ready to provide a loving, stable, and lifelong home for your new best friend.
Why Do I Want to Adopt a Cat?
The first question to ask yourself is why you want to adopt a cat. Are you looking for companionship? Do you want to give a cat in need a loving home? Do you have a big home and even bigger heart? Understanding your motivations can help you figure out the type of cat that would best suit your lifestyle and expectations.
Am I Ready for the Responsibility of Having a Cat?
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.
Can I Afford to Care for a Cat?
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.
Do I Have Enough Time for a Cat?
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 you have a busy lifestyle and aren’t home much, consider adopting two cats so they have a friend around when you are out.
What Type of Cat Suits My Lifestyle?
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.
Will a Cat Be a Good Fit for My Family?
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. 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 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.
What Will I Do If My Circumstances Change?
Life is unpredictable and anything can happen. Job loss, family emergencies, or financial changes can change everything in a heartbeat. Consider what you would do with your pet when your circumstances change. Do you have someone who could care for them at least temporarily? Having a plan in place for your cat’s care is an essential part of responsible pet ownership.
I’m Prepared to Adopt. Now What?
If you decide you’re ready to adopt, congratulations! What an exciting time. You are giving a home to an animal in need. Now you just have to find the right animal for you. Animal shelters, and rescue groups are bursting at the seams with cats and kittens yearlong. Adopting frees up a cage or a foster home and allows them room to save another cat. Research local shelters and rescues to find an organization that aligns with your values and offers support throughout the adoption process. The adoption fee typically covers spay/neuter, microchipping, and vaccines so you will know your cat has been well taken care of and is up-to-date on their medical care. Once you choose the perfect cat for you and your lifestyle, you can relax and enjoy your time together knowing that you saved a life and are giving your new pet a second chance at a loving home.
Love, Nala
