Picking the Perfect Cat for Your Family

A new pet can be exciting, but if you want to start things off on the right foot, you have to plan ahead. Ask yourself these questions:

• What’s your lifestyle and home environment like? Are you constantly on the go, frequently taking off for hours at a time? Is your home usually loud and chaotic? If your life is already hectic, you might not have time to care for a cat.
• Can you look beyond appearances? Are you willing to compromise? Maybe a kitty only has one eye or lacks the coloring you wanted. Maybe they were the runt of the litter or their tail is permanently bent from an accident. That doesn’t mean they wouldn’t make a great pet for you and your family. Don’t judge a book by its cover. Picking the “odd” feline could be one of the best decisions you ever make.
• What kind of relationship do you want with your new buddy? Do you want a cat that wants constant attention from you (scratches, play time, lap time, etc.), or would you prefer a pet that spends their waking hours hanging out on furniture or windowsills? Some people prefer their “space” and only want the occasional interaction with their pets. If this isn’t the case for you and you don’t want a cat that seldom comes to you for attention, talk to a shelter or breeder about your adoption options. Keep in mind that, while certain cat breeds have certain personally traits attached to them, every individual cat is different.
• Do you want a kitten or adult? While kittens can be a lot of fun, they’re also endlessly energetic, sure to destroy things and get into trouble on a daily (if not hourly) basis. You have to train them to use the litter box. Adult cats already know how to use the litter box. Their personalities are already out on full display, leaving no room for surprises that could cause issues later down the line. For the elderly or those who prefer calm, quiet households, older cats tend to be more appropriate because of their laidback demeanor. It all comes back to your lifestyle and what you’re looking for in a pet.
• Do you already have a cat (or even a dog) in your home? If so, you’re going to have to think about clashing personalities and potential fights. Cats with prior exposure to other animals are your best bet.