catmando.blog

I’ve been wanting to write a blog about cats for quite some time.  I love cats and I know many of you out there in the real world like cats too.  Our last cat, “Zoey,” had to be put to sleep about two years ago and I have to admit, I am still not quite over it.  (I know my wife and youngest daughter are not over it yet either)  Unless you have had a cat in your life, it is difficult for others to understand the attachment and bond you form with these beautiful animals.

I guess that is why I am writing this now.  I know I am not alone in this world.  I know there are probably many people who have had a cat they didn’t know they loved and may be looking for a new, replacement cat.  Well, there are a few considerations that a person must take into account before arbitrarily going out to pick up a cat from the pet store, humane society, or from the kids trying to sell or give away their over-supply of kittens in front of the grocery store.

Let me break these considerations down into just a few thoughts.

First, consider your living situation:

Cats can usually survive almost anywhere and in any living condition, but do you have enough room for a litter box?  Is there a safe and quiet place for your new friend to eat and sleep?  What about room to play?  Is there room for a scratching post?  If not, they will tear up your furniture, doorways, or anything else they can get their claws into.  Do you have the room to play with your new friend?  Laser pointers are great, but if you don’t have the room, they are not safe for your cat.  Don’t forget to consider any hazards that could cause them harm.  Do you live above the first level where jumping out of a window or off a deck or balcony would cause them injury?[1]  What about toxic substances or plants?  Are there any of these that you need to consider before turning your beautiful new friend loose to roam and explore?  Remember, cats are naturally curious and will inspect everything, oftentimes without realizing it may be harmful or dangerous.

Consider your lifestyle and schedule:

Fortunately, cats are fairly content being by themselves or left alone.  They are independent animals, but at the same time, most do need routine care and attention.  This could include feeding and water, cleaning their litter box, or simply just entertainment.  What does your schedule look like?  Are you able to be there for your new friend?  Several times over the years, I placed an infrared wifi camera in our living room and have been able to “talk” to our cat while we were on vacation.  (It always made us feel bad when she immediately recognized our voices and ran to the camera)

Life is busy, but once you bring a new member, even a furry one, into your house you have the responsibility to nurture it.

Consider your financial situation:

Owning a cat is not always cheap.  There will be expenses such as food, kitty litter, toys, grooming supplies, and even veterinary care.  There will be regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention.  You must also count on the possibility of a potential emergency medical issue.  These can be expensive.  There are even companies out there now offer pet insurance to help cover some of the unexpected costs of these emergencies.

Consider your household dynamics:

I would say this consideration is crucial.  Consider whether or not you are bringing a new cat or kitten into a house with other pets or even small children.  What impact will this have on those already in the house or on the new members of the family?  We always found that we had to educate our children about the proper care and handling of new kittens.  If we did not, the poor kitten would be mauled and handled roughly to the point, the kitten would strike out at our children, causing both to hate each other.  We need to remember that cats and kittens need their space and most live on their own terms.  Cats love attention, as long as it is the right kind of attention.

Consider the long-term commitment:

Cats can live anywhere from twelve to twenty years.  That is a long time to be taking care of an animal that will go through several life-changing stages in your house.  Will you be able to give it a stable living environment?  How will the cat adapt if you have to move?  If you are planning a move in the near future, is the timing to get a new cat right?  What will it hurt to wait a few more weeks or even a month?

After all these considerations have been weighed, then the final consideration is to decide where you are going to obtain your new housemate.  Consider the ethical aspects of cat ownership.  Adopting from a shelter or rescue organization gives a homeless cat a second chance at a loving home.  Consider the responsibilities of pet ownership, including spaying or neutering your cat to prevent overpopulation.  This also contributes to the overall welfare of all animals.  And, lastly, please have your local veterinarian implant a microchip into your new friend.  If he or she is ever found running loose, it is a simple process to have almost any veterinarian or humane society, read the chip to hopefully return your friend to you.

Some final thoughts about having a new cat in the house.  Before bringing a cat home, prepare your space and supplies.  Set up a cozy sleeping area, provide a variety of toys for mental stimulation, and ensure you have essentials such as food and water bowls, a litter box, scratching posts, and a carrier for trips to the vet.  Create a safe and welcoming environment to help your new cat adjust smoothly to its new home.

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[1] If you have window or sliding glass door locks, please make sure everybody in the house or apartment has the knowledge and ability to get out in an emergency!