Bringing a cat into your home can offer boundless joy and affection, but it’s a decision that requires some serious thought. Keeping a cat will be a long-term commitment, which means providing love, care, and finances for anywhere between 12 to 20 years. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure the adoption process is seamless for both you and your new feline family member.
Cats, and especially indoor cats, have a long life expectancy. You should think about the long-term responsibilities well in advance. If you’re interested in getting an outdoor cat, keep in mind their average life expectancy of 3-5 years due to many dangers such as injuries and illnesses.
If you have other pets, especially other dogs or cats, it is advisable to speak to an adoption counselor first. They can assist you in finding a kitten that is compatible with your existing pets as well as advise you on how to gradually acclimate the new cat to your home.
When to Get Kittens
Most kittens remain with their moms until they are at least two months old. By this point, they have been weaned and are beginning to eat solid food. Shelters usually allow adoptions from 8 to 16 weeks. It is advisable to wait until the kittens are spayed or neutered before bringing them home, or discuss with your veterinarian about the timing of permanently altering them.
Creating a Safe Home Environment
Cats will usually do fine living indoors for the rest of their lives. If you are thinking of allowing your cat to go outside, think about the chances of contracting diseases, dangerous encounters, and other risks involved. In case you decide to let your cat out, make sure they are spayed or neutered and microchipped, and bring them inside during very hot or cold weather.
Provide your cats with a variety of toys that mimic natural activities like trees for climbing, beds, scratching posts, and houses for hiding. Cats do best when there are designated areas within the home where they can own. For tips on setting up an enriching home space, check out our blog on Designing the Perfect Indoor Environment for Your Cat
Kittens need dry or wet Kitten Food until they reach 10-12 months. Use the instructions on the packaging to know how much to feed them. While transitioning to adulthood, cats are given adult food. Consult your veterinarian to know the right time to make this change.
Ensure to change the water every day. If your cat goes outdoors, make sure they have clean water available for them to drink. This is even more crucial during extreme weather conditions.
With proper health, most kittens know how to use a litter box since they learn from their mothers. If you notice your kitten struggling to use the litter box, it is recommended to reach out to your veterinarian as this may be a sign of a health issue.
For homes with multiple cats, the rule of thumb is to have one extra litter box than the number of cats. This means if you have two cats, then you should have three litter boxes. Young kittens are best cared for with pellet litter as it has a lower chance of respiratory issues and ingestion risks.
Veterinary Care
It’s best to have a veterinarian choose before you adopt your new cat. It is also wise to have a vet visit after two weeks of adoption for a thorough health check-up. Discuss vaccinations, preventative medications, and spaying or neutering(if not done already).
Domestic cats should have their rabies vaccination up to date for indoor cats and regularly scheduled vet visits for health and booster vaccinations. Prepare financially for the potential costs of veterinary care throughout your cat’s lifecycle as routine checkups and booster vaccines will require an investment.
For more guidance on choosing the right vet, read our blog on Choosing the Right Veterinary Option
Enrichment and Playtime
To stimulate their natural response, kittens and even older cats need constant engagement through various toys. Cat trees and scratchers offer added benefits as your cat can climb, hide, and play For creative ideas, explore these interactive games and activities to keep your cat entertained
Your cat can easily be encouraged to use their designated scratcher instead of your furniture using positive reinforcement such as praise and treats. Cats are trainable! Regular gentle training sessions combined with play strengthen the bond with your cat and help keep them active.
Grooming Essentials
Cats excel at grooming themselves; however, some management is needed. Regular grooming, like trimming your cat’s nails, can also prevent scratches on your belongings. If you have a young kitten, it may help to gently play with their paws so that they get used to the sensation of nail trimming over time.
With regards to grooming, be on the lookout for dirty ears, runny eyes, tender skin, or other potential hygiene-related health problems. These may indicate the need for veterinary care.
Building a Support Network
Family, friends, and fellow cat owners all make great sources of information when gathering advice prior to adoption. Furthermore, counselors at shelters are extremely helpful sources of information and advice, especially in regards to a cat’s temperament and health history.
Preparing for a Lifelong Friendship
When adopting a cat, you are not only inviting a new furry friend, but also pledging to nurture and safeguard their wellbeing for the years to come. In return, you will enjoy their company and unwavering loyalty for many years. Carefully think about the entire spectrum of cat care, starting from the adoption phase and considering their long-term welfare.
With these tips, you are ready to create the best environment for your new kitty and build a relationship that will last a lifetime.
Click to Read: 25 Weird Cat Facts That Will Blow Your Mind
EXTRA:
> Are you curious about the benefits of cat ownership? Discover how a feline companion can boost your well-being, reduce stress, and add endless joy to your life in our latest blog post.
