Adopting a new cat is not a decision to be taken lightly. There are many factors to take in consideration before making the commitment. When it comes to raising a cat, you need to think about factors such as age, veterinary and food expenses, and the emotional and material needs of the animal. To assist you in this process, follow these helpful tips.
Summary
Kitten or Adult Cat?
Choosing between adopting a kitten or an adult cat requires careful consideration of the pros and cons. These insights will help you make a good decision.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Adopting a Kitten
Who can resist a litter of adorable kittens? Their charming appearance easily melts hearts, leading many to consider adopting one. However, before making the decision, it's important to clarify several points.
Advantages of Adopting a Kitten:
- It's easier to introduce two kittens.
- Kitten training is more straightforward.
- Kittens can adapt well to living with dogs or puppies.
- As they grow, kittens develop unwavering trust in you.
Limits of Adopting a Kitten:
- Kittens require more care as well as attention than adult cats.
- Their health is still fragile, necessitating frequent vet visits.
- Raising a kitten demands a considerable amount of time, which you may not have due to other responsibilities.
- If you adopt a kitten, you need to ensure it has constant company during the day. Leaving a kitten alone at home during its early stages can be dangerous.
Why Adopt an Adult Cat?
Adopting an adult cat offers several advantages. Typically, adult cats are already vaccinated, dewormed, and have better overall health than kittens. Leaving them alone at home when you go to work poses no problem. Simply provide them with food and water. Moreover, you can anticipate their healthcare needs.
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Adult cats are usually well-behaved, avoiding urinating throughout the house. This saves you a significant amount of time compared to teaching a kitten proper hygiene. However, it's important to note that an adult cat's temperament can be unpredictable, depending on their previous experiences.
Adopting a cat that has endured past hardships may be challenging, as the animal may struggle to trust you and might display defensive behavior. Therefore, take your time when selecting the origin of your future pet.
Where to Adopt a Cat?
When it comes to adopting a cat, you have several options:
- Animal Shelters (SPA)
- Through a Friend
- Rescue Centers
- From a Breeder
At the Animal Shelter (SPA)
The Society for the Protection of Animals (SPA) takes in animals that have been mistreated or are in need of assistance, including dogs, cats, and other species. To adopt a cat, you may need to pay an adoption fee based on the breed, age, and health of the animal. The cost to adopt a cat or kitten typically ranges from 150 euros and up.
Related: How To Prepare Your Home For A Cat
Through a Friend
Depending on your relationship with the person, adopting a cat or kitten from a friend can be free or involve a fee. If you decide to adopt a kitten from a new litter, wait until the animal is at least 2 months old. If someone entrusts you with their adult cat, ask to keep some of the cat's belongings to ease the transition to a new home. It's also important to learn about the cat's habits, such as its diet and schedule.
At Rescue Centers
Rescue centers account for nearly 35% of cat adoptions in France. You can find adult cats, kittens, and senior cats at these institutions.
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They encourage visits to the animals available for adoption, allowing you to get to know your chosen cat better before bringing them home. This facilitates a smoother transition, and you'll already have an idea of how to make your new furry companion comfortable in your home. Additionally, shelter staff can guide you in selecting a cat that best matches your lifestyle and habits, helping you avoid any unpleasant surprises.
From a Breeder
There are several advantages to adopting a cat from a breeder:
- Assurance of a healthy cat.
- If you adopt a purebred cat, you'll receive a certificate from the (Official Book of Feline Origins).
- You'll benefit from professional advice on welcoming your new companion properly.
Note that adopting a cat from a breeder can be expensive, especially for purebred cats, which can cost several thousand euros. It's also advisable to research the breeder's reputation to avoid scams.
When to Adopt a Cat?
If you wish to adopt a kitten, consider their age. Kittens should have acquired certain life skills before being separated from their mother and introduced to a new home. The mother cat teaches the kitten how to groom itself and eat properly.
Separating a kitten from its mother too early can lead to various behavioral issues, some of which can be quite serious. To prevent these problems, it's essential to adopt a kitten that is at least 8 weeks old.
If you're not familiar with the weaning process, it's best to adopt a kitten that is already weaned. This will prevent you from making mistakes when it comes to their diet.
Regardless of the cat's age, it's strongly recommended to schedule an initial vet visit as soon as you acquire the cat. The veterinarian will provide guidance on ensuring a healthy life for your new pet.
To increase your chances of finding a kitten quickly, it's advisable to search for one during the spring. This season typically corresponds to the peak of kitten births.
How Much Does a Cat Cost Per Month?
Adopting a cat requires some preparations. It's not just about providing them with a new home; you must also consider all their needs:
Food: Monthly food costs for a cat can range from 10 to 100 euros, depending on the type of diet you choose. Veterinary-recommended cat food brands, for example, can be quite expensive. If you also want to provide wet food for your furry friend, budget an additional 15 euros per month.
Related: The 12 Factors To Choose The Right Cat To Adopt
Medical Check-ups: Even a healthy cat needs regular vet visits. Cats should be examined once or twice a year, in addition to vaccination boosters and deworming. This totals an average of 150 to 200 euros annually, or about 17 euros per month.
Pet Sitting: Cats, like dogs, need exercise and socialization. If you don't have time for these activities, or if you'll be away for an extended period, consider pet sitting. The cost of this service can range from 8 to 25 euros, depending on the agency you choose.
Grooming: While grooming services are optional, if you don't know how to trim your cat's claws yourself, you may need to rely on a professional. Full grooming can cost up to 105 euros, and it should be done at least once every three months.
Welcoming a New Cat
Entering a new family is a stressful period for a cat. Each member of the household should try to acclimate the cat as smoothly as possible. To do this, everyone should spend as much time as possible with the cat. However, avoid rushing or forcing interactions. Allow the cat to come to you naturally. It's also advisable not to pick up the cat in your arms initially, as this can frighten them.
To gently engage your new pet, use toys like balls, sticks, lasers, or plush toys. Avoid intruding on their territory. If they decide to hide, don't force them out. Eventually, they will come out and explore their new living environment.
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If you already have a cat at home, you can find solutions to help them coexist in our article on "How to Introduce Two Cats" and learn how to manage jealousy in cats in our article "Dealing with a Jealous Cat."
To ensure your feline companion's comfort, provide them with a dining area, a relaxation space, and a play area.
Essential Care for Your Cat
To monitor your cat's health, plan for up to two annual vet visits. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
It's also important to provide various vaccines for your cat. Some of the diseases that require vaccination to protect against potential dangers include:
- Feline Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
- Feline Rhinotracheitis
- Rabies
- Feline Chlamydia Infection
- Feline Leukemia
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis
In addition to vaccination, regular deworming is essential. This should be done up to three times a year for your cat's well-being. There are several types of deworming options available, including:
Tablets: Ideal if your cat is cooperative. Otherwise, you may need to crush the tablet or hide it in a meatball to administer it more easily.
Pipettes: These are easier to use. Simply apply them as close to the skin as possible, typically on the cat's back.
Cat Supplies and Accessories
Apart from food and healthcare, cats also need entertainment. Toys are important as they prevent your pets from getting bored and potentially becoming depressed. To keep your cat active and healthy, consider providing the following:
- Cat Toys: Balls, sticks, lasers, plush toys, etc.
- A Cat Wheel for exercise indoors.
- A Cat Tree for scratching and exercise.
- A Comfort Toy for companionship when you're not at home.
If you're frequently away from home and unable to tend to your cat during the day, consider providing an automatic feeder and a water fountain. These accessories allow your cat to eat and drink without relying on your intervention. Of course, a litter box is essential for your cat's bathroom needs.
Adopting a Cat: Our Conclusion
In summary, when considering how to adopt a cat, take your circumstances into account. If you live alone and have to work constantly, it's advisable not to get a pet. It may be difficult to meet their needs. For first-time cat owners, we recommend adopting an adult cat. They are already experienced and easier to care for.
Related: What Does My New Kitten Need?
Keep in mind that the needs of a kitten are greater than those of an adult cat. Raising a kitten requires some experience. Regarding the breed, you have free choice according to your preferences. If you don't have much time for grooming, consider avoiding breeds that shed excessively.
What about you? Which cat breed have you adopted? Do you have any anecdotes to share? We would be delighted to hear from you in the comments.