5 Things To Keep In Mind Before You Plan On Getting A Cat

Getting a cat will mean different things to different people. While some of us want a cat to cuddle and sit on our laps, others may want to live with an independent one. Independent cats like to spend most of their time outside and aren’t fond of too much human interaction.

A person should try to find a cat that interacts. However, aspiring cat owners must keep in mind that not all cats are the same and how the individual cat behaves with you depends inherently on its personality and early experiences. Depending on this, the cat is fearful or confident with people and in life.

The kind of environment you keep your cat in is also highly significant. For example, you can think of creative ideas, like getting quality and appealing Cat Harnesses.  

Cats are amazing creatures that make for a beautiful companion for all age groups. Bringing a new pet into your home and introducing it to your family is an exciting event. Unfortunately, people often go out and get a cat without considering the long-term commitment they are making without considering the financial aspect of providing it with excellent care. Here is a list of the most important things you need to consider before deciding to get a cat. 

1. Involve your Family

Before getting a cat, make sure that everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat, and all of them equally agree on adding a new member to your family. You also have to make sure that no one in your family is allergic to cats. Then, moving on, consider other factors like who will take care of the cat? Are you prepared for the chores of grooming, feeding, and litter box duty daily? Therefore, always think twice before getting a cat and giving it as a gift. 

2. Prepare for the commitment.

The average lifespan of a normal kitty is 15-20 years, but some tend to live for 20 years. Getting a cat is a long-term commitment for you and your family members. Often people run out of patience and abandon their cat in less than a year. Know this; cats are not disposable pets. So before getting a cat, ask yourself, not once, not twice, but thrice: Will you be a responsible cat owner?

3. Cat Budget

If you haven’t already started researching the cost of owning a cat, do it now. Owning a cat is expensive, so can you afford it? Significantly, the first year of getting a kitten is quite costly. You have to pay for the spaying and neutering, additional cost for vaccinations, deworming, and other veterinary care routines from time to time. A cat adopted from a shelter is quite a bargain as facilities are always available, along with microchipping the cat for permanent identification. 

The older cats will need more veterinary care. Additionally, prepare yourself for any costly medical emergencies that might occur at any moment. Pet health insurance plans can help you afford the best medical care for your cat. The cost of pet insurance varies depending on numerous factors.

4. Your Lifestyle Matters

Cats are more independent in comparison to dogs, yet they still require both companionship and love. Cats, too, need quality time with people to be happy. Bringing home a cat means committing to it. If you work full time and travel a lot, owning a cat will undoubtedly change things around you.

5. Your Location

Where you put up is another essential factor you have to consider before getting yourself a cat. Do you own your place, or will you need permission from a landlord to get a cat? If you have rented a place, can you afford the deposits and monthly fee for the cat? Cats like us need to stay in a forever home. So, be sure you can relocate your cat along with you if ever the need.

But before that, answer one last question. Do you want a cat or a kitten? Kittens need a lot of time, attention, and energy, and their playful nature gets them into more trouble. Kittens don’t prefer being left alone, and one should adopt kittens in pairs. Also, kittens don’t get along very well with children or seniors. 

Adult cats, on the other hand, are less destructive, and since their personalities have stabilized. Existing cats often consent to have another cat in the house if it is similar in age. So carefully consider how it may react before adding a new cat to the family and think about whether the new member of the family will get acceptance.

Conclusion

Adding a new cat is similar to adding a new family member. It is rewarding, but you must do your homework first. Don’t simply rush with the adoption process. If and only if you are ready for the commitment, you can help ensure a long and loving relationship with your new feline companion for many years to come.