Cat Adoption 101
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1 min read
Looking for your purrfect match? Cats are wonderful companions, known for their mischievous personalities and low-maintenance grooming requirements. If you’re considering adding one to the family, here are some helpful tips.
Let’s Talk Budget
Getting a cat is a long-term commitment, both emotionally and financially. You’ll have a few upfront costs, such as adoption fees, pet supplies, and initial veterinary procedures (vaccines for kittens, potential extra bloodwork for older cats), but you’ll also have continuing costs. Make sure you have room in your monthly budget for cat food, kitty litter, and veterinary bills (both expected and unexpected).
Finding a Vet
You’ll need a vet that both you and your cat trust. Here are a few tips for finding the right match:
Word of mouth:
Talk to fellow cat owners (preferably ones that live close by) to gather recommendations for local veterinary clinics.
Read reviews:
If you don’t know other cat owners, research veterinary clinics near you and always read the reviews left by clients.
Local is better:
If you can, opt for a nearby veterinary clinic. In case of a medical emergency, you’ll be able to get your fur baby help sooner rather than later.
Cat-friendly:
Not all clinics are geared towards cats. Clinics with separate waiting rooms for cats and dogs will help reduce your cat’s stress during appointments. These kinds of clinics will often have a certification from the American Association of Feline Practioners or from Fear Free.
What Supplies Will You Need?
Here are a few basics every cat owner needs:
- Litter box and litter
- Food and water bowls (automatic is most convenient)
- Nutritious cat kibble
- Treats
- Scratching post(s)
- Toys
- Claw trimmers (unless you take them to the groomers)
- Cat carrier
- Fine-toothed comb
Consider a Pair
Cats may be known for their solitary habits; however, they can develop what’s called single-kitten syndrome if left entirely alone. This syndrome defines a lack of socialization, which may lead to biting and clawing problems. Another cat their age will help teach them how to use their built-in weapons playfully instead of painfully.
Heads Up—You Might Feel Better
Cats provide a unique sense of comfort for their owners. Not only will you get cute entertainment and cuddles, but they will likely cause very little ownership anxiety because, for the most part, they take care of themselves. One ten-year study even found that owning a cat may reduce the risk of a heart attack by almost one-third.
Keeping Your House Clean
Cats come with laughter, cuddles, and adventure—and a lot of fur. Here are a few sidekicks that will help you keep your home clean with ease: Vital 200S: This air purifier uses 3-stage filtration to keep pet dander, pet fur, dust, pollen, and odors out of your air. Plus, the additional U-shaped air inlet helps protect the system from clogs caused by airborne pet fur. LVAC-200: This all-in-one vacuum comes with powerful suction levels and handy attachments to ensure spotless cleaning in every corner.
Where to Adopt
This is where the magic happens. Choosing to adopt a cat not only costs less but saves a sweet kitty from a life in the shelter. Here are some options:
Good luck—we hope you find the purrfect match!
Sources:
Cat Owners Have Lower Heart Attack Risk, Study (medicalnewstoday.com) Single-Kitten Syndrome - MEOW Cat Rescue
