Cats are great pets to have. Several people have them in their families. They are not loud and big like dogs and can curl up to take a nap in your lap. It can help you relax after a hectic or long day.
However, owning a cat or any animal is a great responsibility. It is not just cuddles and love. You might need to take care of food, space, litter, vaccines, grooming, and more.
You can consider these things before deciding to adopt a cat or kitten.
1) It Is No Joke; It Is a Lifetime Commitment
Cats can live up to 15-20 years, depending on several factors. So, you need to remember that it will take a lot of hard work and sacrifices if you decide to raise a kitten. You might need to recalculate the time, finances, and energy it will take.
2) Find a Nearby Vet
It is an essential step before you decide to own any pet. You should find a nearby vet clinic to examine the cat’s health, routine, diet, and more. You can also take notes of the clinic’s opening and closing hours and days.
You can find an emergency clinic or hospital with 24*7 services for your cat. You can also visit a vet to know more about cats and what to expect from them.
3) Have Your Cat Spayed or Neutered
Adopting a cat is not just about imagining good things like
- A cat will curl up to your lap,
- You will keep petting and loving it,
- You will get a companion for a lifetime,
- It will come running towards you as soon as you call its name.
You can think of its name and a space in your home you will give it, but nothing more. On several occasions, people only look at the good things but get delusional about the responsibilities, hard work, and commitment it takes.
One of the most challenging choices a cat owner has is to neuter their cat. However, it is necessary because the breeding can result in several cats in your basement, garbage cans, and other similar places.
4) Collars and Name Tags
A registered name and collar for a cat older than six months are essential to track it everywhere it goes. You can also implant a microchip on it if you want. You also need to give a name to your cat and register it in a vet clinic if not done already.
Naming a cat is also necessary because it establishes a stronger emotional connection. Also, you can avoid going to a vet without thinking of a good name because a vet will give it the most random and common name.
You can also search the internet for black cat names, white cat names, cat names like superheroes, savage cat names, etc. You can use several other filters to search for unique cat names you like.
Make sure to register the same cat name in the vet clinic and the microchip or its name tag.
5) Buy a Scratching Post
Cats love to keep their paws in good condition, and it is your responsibility to buy a scratching post for them. You don’t want your cat scratching your furniture, mattress, and similar things.
You can also use catnip to encourage your cat to use it. You might also need to buy a tall scratch post so your cat can fully stretch out using it.
6) Set Up a Feeding Schedule
You need to set up a feeding schedule; so your cat knows when it is feeding time. You can also take a vet’s advice on the food you need to give to your cat.
You might never know about the unhealthy foods for your cats without talking to a vet. For instance, grapes, raisins, and milk are not healthy for your cat. A vet can also give you a proper diet chart per your cat’s health.
7) Investment in Litter Boxes
You should invest in a large, good-quality litter box for your feline friend. You can place it in a quiet and easily accessible spot. Kittens are messy, and you are the one to guide them properly to use a litter box.
You might also need to clean the litter box daily. Most kittens do not know how to use a litter box. However, they have an instinct to use it. You can ask your vet for a guide on how to train your kitten to use a litter box.
There should always be an extra litter box than the number of kittens or cats you have. For instance, you should have three litter boxes if you own two cats. Pelleted litter is a good choice if you want to adopt a kitten.
Conclusion
Adopting a pet the first time is not easy, but the feeling of accomplishment and responsibility it gives is unmatchable. You can also talk to a friend or colleague who owns a pet before making this big decision.
