I Want a Cat: How Do I Choose One?

Having a pet is a wonderful experience, and cats are great companions for humans. Their breeds, personalities, and quirks will continually make your day, but it’s necessary to ask yourself a specific question: how do I choose my feline companion? We’ll give you some tips on picking out a cat below.

Adopting a feline

Adding a new member to the family is always a great reason to be happy. When it comes to pets, people usually think very carefully before making a final decision. Don’t worry if you’re having troubles deciding. This decision is just as important as having a child, so it should be treated equally.

Whether it’s a dog or a cat, the decision to get a pet must be a unanimous decision by the entire family. Once you have decided if you want a dog or a cat, the next question is: which breed should I choose? Well, when it comes to felines, there is a lot to consider.

You should ask yourself why you want a cat instead of a dog. You have to take their needs into consideration, and the pros and cons that adopting a cat will bring.

The cat breed you get plays a huge role in your decision because some breeds are more playful and friendly than others. There is also the dilemma of whether to adopt a cat from a shelter or from a breeder, or whether you should get an adult cat or a kitten. It’s a bit of a complicated issue.

So, how do I choose my cat?

Let’s say you decide to visit a shelter to give one of those animals a better life. There, you will find all types of different personalities and breeds. 

Some experts on the subject recommend playing with all of the cats at the same time. This will help you get to know the cats better than you would by looking at them while they’re locked up in cages. While you’re with them, you should analyze their personalities, their way of playing and how they relate to you and other cats. 

If you have a child at home, we recommend that you bring them with you to visit the shelter. Have them do the same that in the previous paragraph. All of this will help you find the cat that fits your family best.

Just like when a baby born, the arrival of your cat changes your lives and you will have to adapt to it. 

What if I decide on a cat from a breeder?

Well, the process is almost the same, but instead of going to a shelter, you have to go to a trustworthy and responsible breeder — never a farm.

Don’t choose a cat based on their looks. A feline may look very cute on the outside, but remember you need to consider the qualities of a life companion. You should know about the personality a particular breed may have, so you should do your research on the different breeds before making a decision.

And, just like in a shelter, you should try to play with all the cats at the same time. As mentioned earlier, the goal is to find the cat that touches your heart and that’s compatible with your entire family.

I have a dog: is it okay to adopt a cat?

Friendships between dogs and cats are more common than you may think, so don’t worry too much about combining the two. What you should ask yourself is if your dog is ready to have a cat by his side.

Your dog’s behavior should be appropriate enough to have a cat at home, since they will be your family’s companions for the rest of their lives. So, you don’t want them to be running around all of the time like Garfield and Odie.

That’s why your dog has to know how to live not only among humans, but also among other pets. And, of course, you shouldn’t just immediately add your cat into your home.

Also, keep in mind:

• Kittens adapt to new homes easier than adult cats. After three months of age, cats acquire basic notions of their body that will prevent accidents in your home and allow you to train them.
• Vaccines and other healthy tests are a must, especially if you are adopting one from a shelter. The idea is to have a companion that lasts a lifetime. 
• If you have another cat at home, be sure that he will accept your new companion. Cats are territorial animals by nature, so adding another one to their environment means violating their space and comfort zone.