A new pet can be a welcome addition to any family, even one with small children and babies. Cats make fantastic family pets, but they are often overlooked, with preference given to dogs; but cats can give back so much affection and love that you will wish you had gotten one sooner. Of course, before rushing out and getting any pet there are some points you need to consider. Read on for more information.
Think About Where You Live
If you live in a busy, built-up area it is probably wise to get a house cat—one that will live indoors, and never venture outside; or if they do, they should not leave your perimeters/boundaries. Cats can be very streetwise but accidents do happen and you definitely don’t want to have to deal with a cat that has been involved in a road traffic accident. So, think about where you live and how you can keep a cat safe and protected from danger and harm.
Think About Your Family
If you have a young family would a kitten be ideal for you, or do you think you are more suited to an older cat? Kittens are fantastic bundles of energy and joy, but they can also be little troublemakers if you give them chance. Kittens require just as much time and care as a baby does, so if you have babies in your house a kitten is probably not the best pet to have around. Slightly older cats that can take themselves out of the way may be better suited to your family, providing you have an area for them to retreat to. Whether you choose a kitten or an adult cat you know your family and you know your wants and needs. Remember that kittens are playful and possibly easier to integrate, whereas older cats are more independent and less reliant on you for attention.
Be Mindful of Food and Vet Care Costs
Cat food costs money, especially if you end up with a fussy cat (more common than you think) that will only eat a certain brand or type of food. In addition to food you need to think about vet care for both now and as your cat gets older. You need a handy and convenient vets such as walkin vets Madison, AL, whereby you can get high-quality and affordable vet care even at short notice. As well as planning for emergency care and treatment it is also important to get your cat regularly checked over by a vet and it is just as important that they have regular boosters and immunizations, even if they are an indoor-only cat.
Consider a Rescue Cat
Before rushing out and spending money buying a cat from a breeder, think about getting a rescue cat. There are lots of kittens and cats all needing a good home and quite often they are purebred cats that are just no longer wanted anymore. Rescue cats and kittens can give you so much back, so don’t rule them out.