Feeling ready to adopt your first cat? Here’s what you need to know.

If you’re hoping to adopt a cat, you want to make sure that both you and the cat are a good match. Shelters have endless options when it comes to cats’ personalities, ages, and even appearances, and it is important that you find the one that matches your personality, lifestyle, and family. 

Here are a few things to consider:

Be Responsible

Like the wand chooses the wizard, our pets choose us. But that doesn’t mean the decision is one-sided. We need to be aware of our feelings and capabilities and be cautious about our choices. What are you looking for? What is your lifestyle? Do you spend a lot of hours away from home? Do you travel? Do you have someone that will be able to take care of your cat? Do you have small children? Have you talked with your family or roommates about adopting a pet?

A pet is a responsibility, and you want to be sure that you are willing to provide for any animal you welcome into your home.

Age Range

When people picture adopting a cat, they almost always picture a kitten — but there are plenty of amazing adult and senior cats who are waiting for a new home! If you decide to adopt a kitten, know that they will require a considerable amount of attention and preparation. First, you need to kitten-proof your home. You also need to be willing to supervise the kitten at all times. Being so young and tiny, kittens can get into anything and everything — and they won’t waste time doing so! While kittens are a wonderful addition to our family, bringing us joy, entertainment, love, and fun, they do require a higher level of responsibility from all members of the household. Be sure that you have both the time and attention to commit to raising a kitten.

On the other hand, adult and senior cats have already outgrown having endless energy and curiosity; this allows you to have a better chance of knowing their personality before you bring them home. If you’re looking for a calm, relaxed cat over an enthusiastic one, you will be able to tell that in the shelter.

While some shelter cats may come from a harsh past that has made them skeptical of humans, the moment you choose each other is the beginning of a wonderful, new relationship that will continue to grow every day. With patience and compassion, you and your new cat companion will be able to shape each other’s lives and adapt to this new world together.

Are you considering adopting a feline friend? Let us know and share your beautiful story of you and your cat below!

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