Here's some answers to your frequently asked questions from Pet Shop owner Steve's daughter Rebecca....
Should I get a cat?
Before you commit to a cat or kitten you need to decide if you have the time. Cats are more self sufficient than dogs, some sleep for up to 18 hours a day, so they may not notice you going to work! Nonetheless cats require companionship, and the level of human engagement varies from cat to cat. Cats can live up to 20 years so think carefully, and don't forget, the cost of purchasing a cat will be considerably less than its ongoing care – food, shelter, toys and regular trips to the vet.
Kittens are adorable, but require more attention than an adult cat. Rescue centres are often looking for new homes for adult cats looking for a second chance. An adult could be perfect if you don’t have time to devote to litter training and curbing bad habits.
Purebred or moggy?
Before you choose your cat or kitten you should consider what their role will be in your home. A companion or household pet doesn’t need to be purebred, a cat or kitten from your local rescue centre will give just as much love and affection. Purebreds are considerably more expensive than mixed breed cats.
How do I choose a cat or kitten?
Whether you choose a cat or kitten, purebred or moggy, it is important to understand the animal’s background. Consider your home life and the environment the cat has grown up in. A kitten raised in a family environment is likely to already be socialised.
Regardless of where you choose to acquire your new pet, check that the animal looks alert and is interested in its surroundings. Its eyes should be bright, and its fur clean. Where possible look at the kitten's mother and father to get an idea of how big they will become and what it may look like. Ask what vaccinations the cat has had and if you are acquiring an adult cat ask if it has had any historic health problems.
If you are buying a pedigree cat or kitten ask to visit the cattery where the kitten was born.
If you are looking for a moggy there are lots of options open to you, adverts in the local paper, notices in shop windows, or your local rescue centre. Cats and kittens obtained from an animal shelter will often have had their jabs and a full medical check up.
What should I feed my new pet?
Kittens require specially formulated food. Most brands of cat food have a kitten alternative. Before you bring your new pet home find out what she likes to eating, changing her food can upset her stomach and the same variety will offer familiarity. If you don’t know what your pet has been fed, opt for a good quality chicken based food. If you want to change your cat's diet, do so gradually by mixing a little of the new food with the food she is used to over a few days.
Cats and kittens can be fed dry or wet food, or both. Don’t offer your kitten cows milk as it may upset her stomach; kitten milk is available if you would like to give your new friend a treat. A wide range of special foods are available for house cats, overweight cats, senior cats and those with sensitive stomachs. Cats can be fussy creatures with their own favourite brands. All manufactured cat foods contain vitamins and minerals cats needs. Where possible opt for a good quality brand with a high meat and low fat content. This will help to stop your cat from becoming over weight.
Cats and kittens require a freely available supply of clean water at all times.
What will my cat or kitten need when I bring her home?
The basic items your new pet will need are: food and water bowls, food, a bed, litter box, cat litter and scoop. In addition to these items, you may also like to have a travel crate to bring your cat home in and for subsequent trips to the vet, a grooming brush or comb, and cats toys including a scratching post. There is also a wide range of cat care books available that you may find useful.
It's a good idea to get your cat a collar and ID tag even if you have had your pet micro chipped. Your cat’s collar should have an easy release mechanism to ensure your cat doesn’t get caught up in any tree branches.
All cats need to scratch so a good sized scratching post will encourage your pet not to scratch your furniture! Get the biggest scratching post possible within your price range to enable your cat to stretch to full height. A wide range of scratching posts are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Before you bring your new pet home move anything that could prove dangerous. Kittens are very inquisitive and can jump, climb and chew. Certain house plants and cut flowers can be poisonous to cats - lilies are particularly dangerous.
How do I settle my new cat or kitten in?
Bringing your new pet home can be a stressful time. If you have bought a kitten this could be the first time she has been away from her mother and the rest of the litter.
Cat or kitten, your new friend will be nervous and should be given time to settle in. If you have children, keep them away from your new pet to begin with. Children should be supervised with any pet and taught to be gentle; if they pull your new pet's tail or play roughly your cat may scratch or bite.
If possible set up a 'quiet place' your kitten’s bed and food in and let her settle in. Play with your kitten gently and talk to her calmly, avoid loud or sudden noises. As your cat or kitten settles in she will become more inquisitive and explore the rest of your home.
Indoor or outdoor cat?
There are differing views on whether cats should be indoor or outdoor pets. This is a personal choice that depends largely on your own opinions, your cat’s temperament, and the risks of your local neighbourhood. If choose to keep your cat indoors ensure she has a variety of toys to play with and lots of scratching opportunities.
If you choose to let you cat go out side, consider fitting a cat flap so she can get in and out when she wants to - this will avoid early morning meows, and will also ensure she is able to get to the safety and warmth of your home.
Kittens should be kept inside until they have had their vaccinations and have been neutered or spayed.
Can I leave my cat alone over night?
Cats are usually independant creatures and will not pine too much if you leave them alone over night provided they have clean water, food and a clean litter box.
If you have a friend or neighbour willing to drop in ask them to check on your pet. If you don’t have a handy nieghbour consider buying an automatic feeder to ensure your cat has a good supply of food while you are away.
If you will be away for longer than one night, and don’t have some who can drop by, consider putting your cat into a reputable cattery. Alternatively you could hire a pet sitter.
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