The decision has been made - you’re going to adopt a new kitten! The excitement level is high but have you really thought this through? Newborn kittens are so cute and fluffy that few people can resist giving them a home but their lifespan can be as long as 15-20 years and you will be responsible for their health and well-being throughout the entire period. Are you prepared to take on that responsibility?

In addition to the general welfare of your new pet, there is a financial consideration to be aware of too. Your kitten will very quickly grow into an adult cat and there will be ongoing expenses to meet.

It’s obvious that you will have to meet the cost of food but have you factored in the expense of annual vaccinations and veterinary fees? Taking out pet insurance can help mitigate the cost of unexpected bills but be careful to read the small print first - many policies reduce the amount of cover available as your pet gets older but without reducing the cost of your premiums.

Also, as with people, the personalities of cats are many and varied and you really wouldn’t want to end up with a standoffish cat when what you really want is an affectionate one.

To avoid any problems in matching your cat’s personality to your own, you should take the time to study a few of the many excellent guides available. This way you will be able to learn which breed of cat is associated with which type of character and choose appropriately.

Indoor cats will require significantly more attention than those able to spend time outside and you will have to be happy to give them this. Will you also be willing to keep a litter box clean on a daily basis? Do you have a suitable place in your home to accommodate this box? All these questions must be answered before you can take on the responsibility of a new kitten.

What about grooming your pet? Have you the time needed to keep the fur of your cat in good condition? Long-haired cats naturally need much more attention than short haired ones and you should also consider your attitude towards your pet shedding its fur. Can you put up with hairs all over your clothes and furniture? Confirmed cat lovers will see this as just another aspect of cat ownership but many people will not be able to deal happily with the constant need to de-fur their possessions.

Should you need to be away from home regularly, you will need to make arrangements for your cat to be cared for. There are several solutions available and each has its own advantages and disadvantges. You may be fortunate enough to have a friend or neighbor who is willing to call in twice a day and feed your cat. There are also professional pet visiting services or you may prefer to book your pet into a boarding cattery. Whichever you choose, the happiness of your cat should be your main consideration - not the financial cost.

Once you aware of the downside as well as the upside of taking on a new kitten and feel that you are happy to take on that responsibility, you can really start to enjoy your new family member.

There is nothing better in this life than coming home after a long day’s work and sitting contentedly with your gently purring feline companion on your lap. Owning a loving and loyal cat has been shown to have positive health and life benefits but for me, just sharing my home with my cat is reward enough.

Popularity: 66% [?]

Bookmark to:
         

If you're new here, you may first want to get a copy of my information and resources jam packed handbook on your right. Thanks for visiting!