Cats are among the most popular pets in the world, attracting attention with their beauty, gentleness and intelligence.
However, choosing the right cat is a decision that must be carefully considered.
In this article, we will offer you a journey through the world of choosing the right cat, explaining the factors that must be considered when choosing a cat, tips for visiting a cat shelter, and how to deal with a new cat in the house.
Factors to consider when choosing a cat:
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Lifestyle:
- Do you have enough time to play with the cat and take care of it?
- How much time do you spend at home?
- Do you travel a lot?
- Do you have children or other pets?
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Cat type:
- Do you prefer an active or quiet cat?
- Do you prefer a short-haired or long-haired cat?
- Do you prefer a small or large cat?
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Cat age:
- Do you prefer a kitten or an adult?
- Do you have the patience to handle a kitten?
- Do you prefer a calm cat with a stable personality?
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Cat health:
- Would you prefer a healthy cat?
- Do you have the time and money to care for a sick cat?
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Cat care cost:
- Do you have enough budget to cover the costs of food and medical care?
- Do you prefer a cat with low or high needs?
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Cat personality:
- Do you prefer a friendly or independent cat?
- Do you prefer a playful cat or a calm one?
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the color:
- Do you have a favorite color for cats?
- Does the color of the cat suit your home decor?
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Gender:
- Do you prefer a male or female cat?
- Are there behavioral differences between males and females?
Tips for visiting a cat shelter:
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Before the visit:
- Determine what type of cat you prefer.
- Make enough time to interact with cats.
- Make sure the shelter is open to the public at the time of visit.
- Wear comfortable, washable clothing.
- Bring tissues or a small towel to wipe their hands.
- Make sure no other pets are with them during the visit.
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During the visit:
- Act calmly and respectfully towards cats.
- Ask shelter staff about the cat's history and personality.
- Make sure your cat is healthy.
- Do not hesitate to ask the shelter staff for help.
- Do not feed cats any food without approval from shelter staff.
- Do not disturb cats that appear frightened or agitated.
- Think about volunteering at the shelter or donating to help it.
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After the visit:
- If you have made the decision to adopt a cat, be sure to bring all the necessary supplies.
- Provide appropriate medical care for the cat.
- Give the cat time to adjust to his new environment.
Cat Secrets: The journey of dealing with a new cat in the house
Welcome your new cat!
Here are some tips for dealing with your new cat at home:
1. Providing a safe and comfortable place:
- Designate a quiet place for your cat to sleep, eat, and drink.
- Make sure the place is away from noise and other pets.
- Provide your cat with a cardboard box, cat bed, or other place where he feels comfortable.
2. Providing scratching toys and tools:
- Help your cat have fun and exercise.
- Provide your cat with interactive toys that will attract his attention.
- Place scratchers in different places around the house.
3. Be gentle and patient:
- Talk to the cat in a calm, friendly voice.
- Allow your cat to adjust to his new environment at his own pace.
- Avoid disturbing the cat or making him feel afraid.
4. Play and interaction:
- Start with short periods of play (5-10 minutes) and work your way up.
- Use interactive toys that attract your cat's attention.
- Stop playing if your cat gets tired or bored.
5. Providing food and water:
- Provide your cat with cat food from a pet store.
- Make sure water is always available to the cat.
- Replace the water regularly.
6. Veterinary care:
- Visit the vet to examine your cat and make sure it is healthy.
- Register your cat at a veterinary clinic.
- Get the necessary vaccinations for your cat.
7. Educating family members:
- Teach family members how to handle a cat.
- Make sure that all family members follow the same rules when handling the cat.
8. Enjoying the presence of a cat:
- Enjoy having the new cat in your life!
- Give the cat lots of love and attention.
References:
Websites:
- “Cats” website from the Humane Society of the United States: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care
books:
- Book "Cats: A Comprehensive Care Guide" Written by Dr. Pamela Johnson
- Book "Cat Training: Step by Step" Written by Jackson Galaxy
- Book "Cat Behavior: Understanding Your Cat's Needs" Written by Dr. Deborah Flood
Video clips:
- "The Dodo" channel on YouTube
- "Jackson Galaxy" channel on YouTube