5 Things to Consider Before Adopting a Cat

June has arrived and Adopt-A Cat Month has begun. Adopt-a-Cat Month is brought to you by American Humane, the country's first national humane organization. It is celebrated each June, which coincides with prime kitten season. During this time millions of kittens are born, and shelter intakes increase tremendously, putting a huge burden on already limited resources. American Humane is proud to encourage pet lovers to adopt a cat. 

In celebration of Adopt-A-Cat Month, we will have a three-part series on the blog this month with information on adopting a cat. Today’s post discusses five things you should consider before adopting a cat.

5 Things to Consider Before Adopting a Cat

Commitment

Cats, like all pets, are a commitment. They are forever pets, a lifelong commitment, not temporary companionship. Cats can live a long life, with many cats reaching the ripe old age of 20. They require love and attention, medical oversight, good food, and access to enriching activities. 

Potential adopters need to honestly answer the question “why do I want a cat?” while keeping the idea of commitment in mind. Do you need help with a mouse problem? Are you looking for a companion to share your life with? Are you a cat lover and have missed having a cat for some years? Are your kids begging you to get a cat and you are finally giving in? Do you want to help save a life? Or is this something new you want to try? Some of these are excellent reasons to adopt a cat, while others are not. Think about why you really want a cat. 

Lifestyle

What is your current lifestyle like? Do you work many hours a day? While your cat will be okay at home while you are at work, they will be happy to see you walk in the door and will want your attention. Every cat has a different personality, but chances are your cat will want cuddles and some quality playtime. Preventing boredom prevents behavioral issues, so you should be prepared to pay lots of attention to your cat. (In my opinion, spending time with Lola and Lexy is the best part of my day!)

Lexy's first day at home

Do you travel frequently? Many people believe the age-old myth that cats are independent and can be left alone for days at a time (or longer.) This could not be farther from the truth! If you think that you can set your automatic feeder and leave your new furry family member at home alone for several days you are mistaken, because cats need daily supervision and oversight. They need fresh water, fresh food, a clean litterbox, company, and stimulation. Someone should check on them to make sure they are not ill or have not gotten injured while you are away. A responsible pet parent has a cat sitter, family member, or friend check in on their cat when they are away. 

Financial Responsibilities

Any pet is a financial investment. In addition to food, treats, toys, beds, cat trees, etc., your cat will require regular, routine medical care. Younger cats will need annual checkups which can include vaccinations, bloodwork, and possibly other testing, and older cats may need to be seen by your vet at least twice yearly. 

Costly emergencies can happen, and pet parents need to be prepared for this. There are several different insurance plans on the market that can pay for medical bills and may be something to consider investing in. 

Lola's second day at home. 

Space

In general, cats don’t need a huge amount of space but they do need room to run and play. And they need hiding spaces and places to explore. They also need an enriched environment that is safe, stimulating, and allows your cat to perform their natural behavior. Enrichment doesn’t have to be expensive, and I have some budget-friendly ideas that will make your cat happy.  Keep in mind your new family member will need more than a catnip mouse to keep them happy and engaged. 

Other Animals in Your Household

Do you have other pets? If you have dogs you want to make sure they are cat friendly, and if there is another cat, make sure that the resident cat and the adoptee cat have lived peacefully with other cats before. Do some research on introducing new pets to help the transition go smoothly. 

Lexy and Lola face to face for the first time.

If you're adopting a cat for the first time, or you're adding another cat to your family, I hope some of these tips are helpful in making the decision that is best for everyone.  Stay tuned for the next post in this series for information on eight essential supplies you'll need for your new cat.

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Do you have additional tips? Share them in the comments below. 

Dawn