Read an Excerpt
Preparations for Lifewith a Cat
Choosing The Right Cat
The big moment has arrived. You've decided that a cat or kitten will brighten your life. What could be better than the company of such a companion? But should you get a cat or a kitten or one of each? What do you do? Why not visit a nearby shelter and see how the cats and kittens interact with you? Make several visits to form a realistic opinion of which you prefer.
If you're sure a cat is really for you, I congratulate you. The love of a cat or kitten will be a treasure. You've always admired the exquisite sensitivity and sensibility of cats. Now you're ready to reach out and choose a cat that's right for you.
Purebreds versus Domestic Cats
You may have heard that it's better to adopt a purebred cat because you can be sure of its disposition, whereas the disposition of an ordinary, mixed-breed cat is an unknown. That's partly true, but, although there are characteristic temperaments that are usually associated with a particular breed, there's no guarantee that the purebred cat you adopt will match your expectations. While most Siamese cats have a very distinctive meow, not all Siamese are alike. Similarly, most Persian cats are low key, but there are exceptions.
If you have your heart set on a particular coat color, coat length, and general temperament, though, your most likely option is the specific breed you've identified. You can also refer to books on cat breeds and perhaps visit breeders of the type of cat that interest you. But unless you're captivated by a particular breed, don't rule out a domestic short- orlonghaired cat.
If you're not sure which to choose, do what a cat would do: take time before you make your decision. A cat washes when in doubt. You could take a cat nap for clarity.
Shelters
You may want to adopt a cat or kitten from a shelter. Most shelters are private nonprofit organizations and have their own bylaws. They are unlike city or state shelters that usually must accept any animal brought to them. Because of the large unwanted and stray population of domestic cats and dogs, the numbers of animals brought to these shelters are staggering and many don't make it out alive. Though a private shelter can be a no-kill facility, it is nearly impossible for a municipal shelter to adhere to such a policy.
Most shelters welcome volunteers to spend time with the adoptees. This may be an ideal way for you to choose a new cat or kitten and/or a fine way to increase your cat friends without a commitment.
Cats versus Kittens
If you're obsessed with neatness, must have everything in its place, and prefer a low-energy companion, a cat, rather than a kitten, would probably best suit you. A neutered cat who appears to be mellow and people-oriented would be a good match for you. Gender can be based on your preference, but remember each female and male has his or her individual catsonality. (I've coined the word "catsonality" to avoid the anthropomorphism inherent in "personality.") If you're not a neatness freak, you're not bothered by mischief and high energy, and you've never had a cat before and you want to help influence and develop its disposition, try two kittens, at least eight weeks old. They would be buddies for each other and won't be tempted to trash your belongings out of loneliness.
Single Cat versus Two Cats
If you spend a lot of time at home and prefer one cat, try to locate a cat that lived in a one-cat household and adores the role of "only" cat. Frequently, cats rescued from the street, who have had to battle other cats and harsh elements for survival, prefer to live without feline companions.
If you spend a lot of time away from home, you might want to consider two cats instead of one. It's not difficult to locate two cats that are buddies who need a home together.
You could even adopt two cats from different sources and separate them initially so they can view each other without physical contact. Chapter 8 explains how to introduce one cat to another.
Kitten or Adolescent Cat
You might consider adopting a kitten and a young adolescent, or even a kitten and an older cat, so the kitten will
have an in-house tutor. This arrangement is also attractive economically, because you save on vaccinations and cost of spaying or neutering the adolescent or full-grown cat.
I consider an adolescent cat to be in between six to fifteen months old, a young cat from fifteen months to two years, and an adult cat from two years and up. But there's many an adult cat who has the look and spunk of an adolescent.
Child-oriented Cat
Suppose you and your husband have a six-year-old daughter and a four-year-old son who desperately want a kitten, but you're not sure that you can cope with another youngster. The ideal match would be a young cat that has formerly lived with children and is tolerant of and pleased by their attention.
But if it must be a kitten, don't adopt one that is less than eight weeks old so the kitten can retreat from your children when desired. A spunky kitten would welcome your children's playfulness. Opt for a shorthair so grooming isn't a major issue.
Cat for Senior Citizens
Your parents have always loved cats but haven't had one since their last cat passed on. They would like to adopt again and are perfect candidates for an adult cat that is at least six years old and prefers to be the only cat. If your parents are high-energy people, you can help them select a vivacious cat. Otherwise, you'd probably want to opt for a mellow lap cat.
A kitten would be appropriate only if your parents could take a part in the early upbringing and enjoy the antics and high-activity level of a kitten. I would try to
