How To Choose The Right Cat
Do you find yourself daydreaming about relaxing at home and having a sweet little kitty curled up with you? Then it’s probably time to get yourself a cat. Choosing the “purrfect” feline friend is not a decision that should be rushed because there are so many different breeds to choose from, each with its temperament and features. To help you choose the cat that suits you best, here’s a quick guide to the most important considerations you should make before becoming a cat parent.
1. Consider your lifestyle
The first thing that you need to understand when you’re going to get a cat is that you are committing to looking after a pet that can live up to 20 years in most cases. So, they need to be a pet that suits your lifestyle. Certain breeds tend to be more energetic than others, which means that some are better suited to being indoor cats that will lounge around with their owners. In contrast, others might need more active families.
Some questions to ask yourself to see what cat breed would suit your lifestyle are:
Do I want an indoor or outdoor cat?
Do I want a cat that likes to cuddle?
Do I need a cat that gets along with dogs?
Do I want a cat with an exotic look?
Do I want a smaller or bigger cat?
When looking for the right cat for you, take your time and compare different cat breeds so you can find the one that best suits your lifestyle.
2. Do you have allergies?
Many people suffer from cat allergies and completely rule out the possibility of owning a cat. However, certain breeds, referred to as hypoallergenic cat breeds, are less likely to trigger allergic reactions. There may be no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic cat, but these cats don’t shed as much fur as other breeds and might make it possible for people with minor allergies to own a cat.
3. Do you want a kitten, or would you adopt an adult cat?
Another important consideration to make is whether you should get a kitten or adopt an adult cat. When you choose to raise a cat from kittenhood, you need to be aware that it can take up to six months for their balance and vision to fully develop, which means for the first year, they are very dependent on their owners. Alternatively, you could make the perfect home for a slightly older cat, which can be significantly easier, as they likely won’t demand as much attention, training and time.
4. Do you want a pedigree?
When choosing a cat, you can either go for a purebred pedigree or a mixed moggy cat. Pedigree cats have distinct features like coat types, color patterns and character traits, while moggy cats can be a mix and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Some believe that pedigree cats tend to be friendlier and more affectionate than moggies as they have been specifically bred for their desirable traits. However, moggies may have less risk of health problems due to the variation of genetics.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a cat, take your time and really consider what you want because they do require a long-term commitment. It’s easy to find a cute kitten and bring them home but then find that their temperament doesn’t really suit your lifestyle and preferences. Hopefully, this guide will help you choose the right cat for you.
This content is provided for informational purposes. Always consult a veterinarian for medical advice regarding your pet.
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Until our next cat convo
-MARTIN