Owner Qualifications

Should I Own a Kitten or Cat?

People frequently are so concerned about finding just the right kitten they may not stop to answer this question:

"Is a kitten or cat the best companion for me at this point in my life?

Here are some considerations to examine before looking for a feline companion:

Can I afford the costs?
- Feeding
- Veterinary exams and shots, neutering.
- Extra security deposits, problems with landlords, etc.
Do I want the responsibility?
- Will it interfere with travel plans?
- Will you have the time to spend petting your pet?
- Do you travel for work frequently without someone to "stand in" for you?
- Litter boxes fill automatically :-), cleaning them is "hands on work".
Do you like indoor activities or outdoor activities? While you're on your ski weekend, who's going to be with the cat?
While scratching can be minimized with a scratching post and training: Are you willing to risk your $5,000 leather sofa?
Indoor cats live 15 years, or more . . . will you be there for your companion for that span of time....are you going away to college?....going to travel extensively after your retirement?
Do you or family members have allergies to cats? If so, can you live with the inconvenience?
Do you live with other animals that may have conflicts with "the new kid on the block"?
Adult Ragdoll cats, gratefully, are very quiet; however, kittens like to romp. Is your house "romp proof." Can you live a "romp proof" lifestyle for a year or more?
Do you enjoy the independence of the feline temperament? This can vary considerable from breed to breed, so do your homework and select a breed matches your and your kitten's expectations.
Many animals end up in animal shelters every year because people did not adequately think through their decision to adopt an animal. The solution to this problem is simple, when in doubt--delay your decision. When you are truly ready, that special companion will be ready and waiting for you.

If your answer is "Yes" to the question that opens this page. Then get ready for a trusting companion that will always give you more than it takes and we hope you have many happy years together.

Should I Own a Kitten or Cat?

People frequently are so concerned about finding just the right kitten they may not stop to answer this question:

"Is a kitten or cat the best companion for me at this point in my life?

Here are some considerations to examine before looking for a feline companion:

Can I afford the costs?

Feeding

Veterinary exams and shots, neutering.

Extra security deposits, problems with landlords, etc.

Do I want the responsibility?

Will it interfere with travel plans?

Will you have the time to spend petting your pet?

Do you travel for work frequently without someone to "stand in" for you?

Litter boxes fill automatically :-), cleaning them is "hands on work".

Do you like indoor activities or outdoor activities? While you're on your ski weekend, who's going to be with the cat?

While scratching can be minimized with a scratching post and training: Are you willing to risk your $5,000 leather sofa?

Indoor cats live 15 years, or more . . . will you be there for your companion for that span of time....are you going away to college?....going to travel extensively after your retirement?

Do you or family members have allergies to cats? If so, can you live with the inconvenience?

Do you live with other animals that may have conflicts with "the new kid on the block"?

Adult Ragdoll cats, gratefully, are very quiet; however, kittens like to romp. Is your house "romp proof." Can you live a "romp proof" lifestyle for a year or more?

Do you enjoy the independence of the feline temperament? This can vary considerable from breed to breed, so do your homework and select a breed matches your and your kitten's expectations.

Many animals end up in animal shelters every year because people did not adequately think through their decision to adopt an animal. The solution to this problem is simple, when in doubt--delay your decision. When you are truly ready, that special companion will be ready and waiting for you.

If your answer is "Yes" to the question that opens this page. Then get ready for a trusting companion that will always give you more than it takes and we hope you have many happy years together.

Copyright © 1996, 1998, 2007

by

Steven J. Hart Web Designs,

All Rights Reserved.