Are you thinking about adopting a cat? If so, June is the best time to do so, with it being national adopt a cat month! Cats make wonderful companions, and they can bring a lot of love and happiness into your life. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few tips to help you find the perfect cat for you.
Kittens vs Adults
When deciding which cat to adopt, consider your lifestyle and how much time you can devote to a pet. Kittens are full of energy and love to play, but they require more supervision and may be more expensive due to several factors.
Firstly, kittens require extensive care and vaccinations during their early months, which contributes to their higher initial cost. Additionally, there is typically high demand for kittens, especially during certain seasons, which drives up their price. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the cost of adopting a kitten can range from $75 to $300 or more, depending on the shelter or breeder.
On the other hand, adult cats are generally less expensive to adopt, with fees typically ranging from $50 to $150. These figures may vary depending on location, breed, and the specific organization or breeder. It’s important to note that while the initial cost of a kitten may be higher, they can bring many years of companionship and joy.
Additionally, adopting an adult cat can also be a rewarding experience as they often have established temperaments and may require less training. Older cats may be more independent, but they can still be loving and affectionate companions. Unlike kittens whose personalities are still developing, adult cats have fully developed traits, temperaments, and preferences. This means you can have a clearer understanding of their individual characteristics before bringing them home.
By adopting an adult cat, you can choose a companion whose personality aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a calm and relaxed cat or an active and playful one, you can find an adult cat that matches your desired traits. This makes it easier to create a harmonious bond and ensures a better fit within your household. Ultimately, the best way to choose the right age cat for you is to visit a shelter or rescue organization and meet a few cats of different ages.
Temperament
When choosing a cat, it is important to consider its temperament as well as its breed or appearance. Some cats are more active and playful, while others are more relaxed and cuddly. A recent study published by the National Library of Medicine has shown that different coat colors may indeed be associated with specific temperamental traits. For instance, gray cats had the highest score for being as shy, aloof and intolerant, while orange cats had the highest scores for being trainable, friendly and calm. Tabbies had the highest ratings for being bold and active, tricolor cats for being stubborn, and bicolor cats for being tolerant. White cats tend to be classified as “aloof” in various surveys, but that trait may have a physical defect behind it. White cats, especially if they have blue eyes, have a high risk of deafness, which could make them seem to ignore you, but they really can’t hear you.
Among purebred cats, some breeds have been selected for sweetness and others for being clever. Think Persians or Ragdolls vs. Siamese. Longhaired cats in general have a reputation for being mellow or lazy, working as excellent “lap cats.” Siamese and domestic shorthairs are known for being easy to train and for mastering complicated behaviors, not always to their owners’ delight. You can read more about these findings in this cat newsletter.
Health
It is important to make sure that the cat is healthy and up-to-date on its vaccinations. You can do this by taking the cat to the vet for a checkup. The vet will check the cat’s overall health and make sure that it is up-to-date on its vaccinations. Healthy cats generally require less immediate veterinary care and may have fewer ongoing medical needs compared to cats with pre-existing health conditions. This means you can focus on building a strong bond and providing them with a loving home.
According to ASPCA, adopting a healthy cat can provide an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years or even longer, depending on factors such as breed, genetics, and overall care. This statistic highlights the potential for many years of companionship and cherished memories with a purr-fect companion.
If you are adopting a special needs cat, it is important to be aware of the cat’s specific needs and be prepared to provide the cat with the care it needs. Some special needs cats may require more frequent vet visits or special diets. It is important to be prepared to provide the cat with the care it needs to live a happy and healthy life. Adopting a special needs cat is a wonderful opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
These cats often face challenges in finding homes and may have longer wait times for adoption according to ASPCA. By providing them with love and care, you not only give them a chance at a fulfilling life but also experience the joy of witnessing their resilience and unique abilities. The bond formed with a special needs cat is incredibly rewarding, bringing immeasurable love and inspiration into your life.
Once you’ve found the perfect cat, it’s time to bring them home! Here are a few tips to help you make the transition as smooth as possible:
Adopting a cat is a wonderful way to add a furry friend to your family. By following these tips, you can find the perfect cat for you and make the transition to your new home as smooth as possible
Related: Your Public Library Can Change Your Life, Here’s How!