Cats make wonderful pets, but just like any animal it’s important to know as much about them as you can before you commit to getting one as a pet. It’s a well-known fact that cats are extremely independent animals and with this come a number of important things to be aware of, such as giving them the space they need to live comfortably, as well as knowing what medication they may need and much more. Continue reading to find out the things you should know and understand, before you bring your beautiful new cat home to the family.
Full Time Commitment
Every year you see the heart-breaking adverts on the television from animal rescue shelters asking people to donate and rescue poor abandoned cats and dogs and this is often because many people rush into buying a pet cat without thinking it through properly. Having a cat is a full-time commitment and one you have to take on with full responsibility. Cats That Dont Shed can live for a long time, so you need to have the ability to care for them and keep them healthy and happy for many years to come. If you’re concerned or aren’t sure whether you are able to commit to caring for a cat from kitten through to adult life, you may want to look at rescuing an older cat, which you can do through the RSPCA, and caring for them through their later years, it’s all dependent on your personal life and routine, but never commit to getting a cat unless you can take on the full time responsibility.
Cat-Proofing the Home
Another key thing to consider is whether or not your home is suitable for a cat. Cats love to roam around, explore and scratch so you must be prepared for those sharp claws to work their way around your home. By investing in some essential equipment, such as scratching post (to prevent them from scratching through your sofa and dining room table) you can give them something to enjoy without wrecking your home. You should also look at making sure your home is safe for your cat, with no loose cables hanging low or dangerous items that they could come into contact with. If your home is full of items that you worry your cat could hurt themselves on, you need to remove these and provide a safe environment for your cat to live in. Take a look online at pet retailers like Petwell to find a selection of cat scratchers and other essentials to ensure your space is ready for your cats arrival.
Neutered or Spayed
By having your cat neutered or spayed you can ensure they live a healthy life without the risk of picking up infections. If your cat explores your local neighbourhood, you should ensure they’ve had the necessary injections to ensure they don’t pick up anything from other domestic cats or stray cats, as you’d be surprised how many they’ll come into contact with whilst they’re out and about doing what cats do. You can find out more about the necessary steps to take with this online through the Blue Cross website for professional advice and guidance.
They Need Space
Similar to the above point about cat-proofing your home, you need to ensure your cat is going to have enough space to live happily. Cats need space to explore and be themselves and if cooped up in a small area they will become restless and uncomfortable. Having plenty of space enables your cat to have quite time to themselves, just like us humans need from time to time. Dedicate certain areas of your home to your cats litter area, sleeping space and eating zone and then give them free reign over the rest of your home to let them go off and do their own thing for a while.