Thinking of Getting a Cat? 10 Things You Should Know First
Many women who find themselves alone after the age of 50 often adopt a pet. Cats are excellent companions. Different cat breeds possess diverse personality traits and mentalities. Some cats might prefer to cuddle and sit on our laps, while others choose to lead somewhat independent lives spending their time outside and don’t want too much human interaction.
How each individual cat interacts with you can depend on its inherent characteristics and early experiences (or rather lack of experiences), which can make it confident or scared around humans in general. Make an informed decision and ensure that you’re ready to provide a loving and caring home for your feline companion.
Commitment
As is the case with any pet, long-term commitment is the most important thing we should be prepared for before getting a cat. A cat can live for 12 to 15 years or even longer. Even though cats are considered fairly independent, they would still need plenty of care and love throughout their entire life.
Financial Aspects
It might make sense to get a rough estimate beforehand about the monthly cost associated with getting a cat, and this would ensure that we are not overwhelmed or taken aback after we get a cat and instead are able to budget for it wisely. Cats require regular grooming, vaccinations, health check-ups, and preventive care such as neutering.
Other areas for expenses would be cat toys, cat food, grooming supplies, litter box, and litter. Additionally, unforeseen medical expenses may come up, so be prepared for potential costs.
Care and Attention
While people might think that cats are quite independent and do not need human interaction, it is quite intriguing to note that many breeds of cats do enjoy human interaction and some cuddle time. Cats need daily playtime and interaction. They are social animals and might start to feel stressed or lonely if left alone for long.
It is essential to carve out some time daily to dedicate to your cat.
Training
While it is natural to think that cats can’t be trained, it is interesting to note that they can be trained to follow basic commands, respond to their names while giving them food, walk on a leash, or use a scratching post.
Learn about cat traits and training techniques to be better equipped with the best ways to establish a healthy and harmonious relationship with your feline friend.
Indoor vs Outdoor
Figuring out whether to keep your cat indoors or outdoors is an important consideration. Some cats do not enjoy outdoor time as they feel more safe and secure in the usual space they are comfortable with. Having said that, there are some cats who are trained well to feel at peace even outdoors.
Moreover, outdoor cats are subject to more risks, such as predators and exposure to diseases. Keeping them indoors can ensure their safety.
Allergies
Cat allergies are also an important factor. If you or someone in your household has allergies, it is advised to spend some time with cats before bringing one home. Some people are allergic to cat dander and may experience allergic reactions, so it’s crucial to ensure everyone’s well-being.
Litter Box Clean-Up
Cats are naturally pretty clean and hygienic animals and require a clean litter box. It is important to scrape the litter box daily or at least every alternate day and change the litter regularly to maintain a hygienic environment for your cat.
Pet-proofing
Cats are curious and agile creatures, so take steps to cat-proof your home. Secure loose wires, remove toxic plants, and store chemicals or medications out of reach. Ensure windows are properly screened to prevent accidents.
Mental and Physical Enrichment
Cats need mental and physical stimulation to prevent monotony and damaging action. Most popular cat toys serve this purpose: scratching posts, climbing frameworks such as cat trees, and interactive play such as laser toys to keep them engrossed.
Bird watching through windows is a favorite pastime for cats to keep them happily engaged.
Adoption
If you are thinking about getting a cat, adoption is a recommended option. Various rescue organizations and animal shelters have cats of all breeds and ages in need of caring families. Adopting a cat not only saves a life but also brings endless delight and gratification to your own life.
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