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Choosing Your Pet Cat
Cats may seem fiercely independent, but the fact is your cat will depend on you its entire life (which, with proper care can be 15 years or longer).
When deciding whether to adopt a kitten, think about whether you will be willing and able to take care of it for that long. An older cat might be a better choice, depending on the circumstances.
Does anyone in your household suffer from allergies? It might be a good idea to find out before you bring any pet home. Skin types and coats vary among breeds. Some may be easier on allergies than others.
Here's something else to consider: two cats are often better than one. A single cat can get bored and lonely, especially when you're away. Two cats can keep each other company, and watching them play together can be a great source of entertainment for you, too.
Kinds of Cats
There are around 40 recognized breeds of cats. Even so, about 99% of all cats are mixed breeds. Mixed breeds are sometimes referred to as domestic shorthairs and domestic longhairs.
Mixed breed cats cover a wide range of appearances and personality types; some may look and act exactly like purebreds. Remember though, that even if you know its parents, a mixed breed kitten may not grow up to be what you expect.
Purebred cats are a little more predictable. Each breed has its own look and personality, and if you are familiar with the breed, you can be fairly sure what your pet will be like.
How to Adopt a Cat
Animal Shelter
Because they are usually sadly overpopulated, animal shelters are good places to choose a cat. Some shelters display adoptable pets at local pet supply stores, so you might look there, as well.
Playfulness is a good quality to look for in a cat, but don't overlook the benefits of tamer adult cats. Perhaps the people at the shelter can tell you something about the cat's personality or history.
Expect to pay an adoption fee. There may be other costs involved such as spaying or neutering, which is often required before adoption.
Individuals
Check the classified ads of your newspaper or pick up a free shopper/trader newspaper at the grocery store. Community bulletin boards are another good place to look. See if you can get a feel for the kind of environment the kitten was brought up in.
Kittens should not be separated from their biological families until they are at least 8 to 10 weeks old. You might consider looking for a kitten that is at least 14 weeks old, when its immune system is more fully developed.
Breeders
If you're looking for a purebred, check the listings in popular cat magazines. Talk with people who know cats. Visit a cat show and ask around. The Cat Fanciers' Association is one good source of information about cat breeds and breeders:
http://www.cfainc.org
When talking with breeders, use your intuition, inspect the facilities, and ask questions about how they raise their kittens
A good breeder will ask you "qualifying" questions to make sure you are a good match for the kitten.
Stop off at the Vet
Be sure to have your new pet examined by a veterinarian, preferably before you take it home. This is especially important if you have other pets. Ask about tests and vaccinations that are recommended (or required by law).
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