Are You Ready for Your First Cat?
Are you starting to think that a cat or kitten would be a lovely addition to your household? Perhaps you’ve finally got the house you dreamt of and a cat makes a home doesn’t it? But a few words of caution before you go skipping down to your local rescue centre! Make sure you’ve thought it through properly. Here are some things to consider:
Finances
Owning a cat brings with it new responsibility. You’ll need to budget for food, vet bills and vaccinations, you’ll need a litter tray, food and water bowls, a bed and bedding, a scratch stick and toys. Do the maths and make sure it fits in with your budget.
Children Under 3 Years of Age
If you have very small children its not a good mix. Toddlers can literally squeeze a kitten to death! You might be better waiting or alternatively getting an older cat.
Valuing Your Belongings
How would you feel if your new kitten sharpened its claws on your velvet chaise longue or made a puddle on your cream carpets? If you don’t think you’ll be able to cope with accidents then a cat is not for you. It will take some time to train your new arrival so be prepared for a bit for the odd pluck or scratch.
Time
Will you have the time to supervise and care for your cat? Cats are very sociable animals and covet attention. They will soon get lonely and bored if left alone too often…and a bored cat can get up to all sorts of mischief! You don’t have to be a slave to your cat (although your cat may disagree on that) but make sure you put aside 15 minutes a day to play and pet him or her.
Some things I've noticed
| Internal Auditor Course available here |