Are you thinking of getting a new cat now that the lockdown is over?
Having a furry companion is great for your mental and physical health. They help you reduce your stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, risk of developing heart diseases, etc.
Isn’t that amazing!
In this blog post, we would like to go through everything you need to know about getting a new cat and how to take care of your furry friend!
Let’s get started!
Adopt or Shop: Which Route to Take?
This is one of the biggest debates of our times.
While thousands of cats remain caged in animal shelters to find a new, loving home, thousands are bred across the nation to be sold at premium prices (depending on the breed).
Adopting a Cat
The chances of you finding a purebred kitten at a rescue shelter are low, but you’ll be saving a life if you choose to adopt a furry friend.
They’re just as loving and fun as purebred cats.
Rescue and older cats have low chances of getting adopted at shelters as people prefer getting kittens. So, these poor babies don’t get the love they need and certainly deserve. You should consider rehoming a rescue cat if possible.
Buying a Kitten
If you’d like a purebred kitten, you should choose a reputable breeder who can provide you with the breed certification and a family tree.
While kitten mills are illegal, it isn’t uncommon to find suspicious ads on social media and forums posted by these illicit facilities. Try to stay as far away from them as possible!
Preparing Your Home for the New Kitty!
Are you thinking of getting kitty supplies on your way home after collecting your furry friend?
That may not be a good idea!
You should have a safe and comfortable space for your new cat ready and set up before you get her home. Let’s take a look at a few things you should have at your place.
Cat Food or Kitten Formula
Buy some cat food or kitten formula for your new kitty–you can ask the shelter or breeder about the kind of food they’d recommend. We recommend getting a small packet of the food–in case your cat doesn’t like the taste, you won’t waste too much of it.
Food and Water Bowls
Most people forget to get bowls for their cat when they first get them!
Don’t make the same mistake and invest in a high-quality food and water bowl for your kitty. We recommend getting stainless steel bowls as they’re easy to clean and don’t break if they fall.
Comfortable Bed and Toys
You should create a cosy, safe, and comfortable environment for your kitty. Changing homes is often stressful for cats, so they need a safe space that they can call their own. Getting a bed, a comfortable blanket, and some toys is a great idea.
While we’re on the topic, try to create a human-free corner for your kitty–a place she can go to when she wants to be left alone without getting disturbed by people!
A Durable Cat Flap!
Cats love to have their freedom of movement, for which getting a cat flap is a great idea. Having one installed before bringing your kitty home is even a better idea!
Cats have a mind of their own, and sometimes, want to be let out at unreasonable hours–like, at 3:00 in the morning! I remember a game my cat loved to play with me before I got my flap installed—he would constantly meow at me to let him out until I got up and opened the door.
Of course, by that time, he would change his mind!
Getting a cat flap is also for when you leave your cat home alone for extended periods of time–like when you’re at school or work.
Getting a New Cat Post Lockdown
Getting a new cat is fun, but it also comes with several responsibilities.
You’ll have to stay on top of the vet appointments, pay the bills, consider getting pet insurance for your kitty, making sure you have someone to cat-sit if you leave town, etc.
Think hard and think twice before bringing a kitty home!
