How to Select Just the Right Cat
Go to the pet store/neighbor's house, or wherever there is a litter of kittens that need adoption., Ask the owner how they have been treated, and if they have any medical conditions., Watch the cats or kittens play and interact with each other for a...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Go to the pet store/neighbor's house
If the cat is old enough, ask to see documents confirming that it's had its shots and tested negative for FIV and other such viruses.
Depending on the cat's age, you should also ask whether or not it's been spayed or neutered, and if not and you're adopting from a shelter or rescue, whether or not they will do so before placing the animal.
Most good reputable organizations will not adopt out a "whole" animal that still might reproduce and create more unwanted pets. , You should get an idea of which ones are mellow, and which ones are friendly.
Enter the area where they are kept and sit down.
Again, the friendly, curious ones will probably come up to you, and the shy, mellow ones will hang back.
A tail between the legs is a sign that a cat or kitten is afraid
- if so, don't push things.
Try playing with them with a simple toy, and see which ones are energetic and playful, and which ones look like their future will consist of long naps in the sun.
While hyperactivity may be cute in a kitten, consider what kind of cat you will want 10 years in the future. , If they are, pick the one that seemed to like you the most, check its gender, and pay for it (or maybe you don't need to pay for the kittens).
Kittens are usually best adopted out after 12 weeks of age, although there's no upper limit on how old a cat can be when you bring it home (shelters are often full of adult cats, and they're usually already litter-trained, too!). , Cats sometimes come into shelters with another cat with whom they have already bonded, or form a bond while in the shelter.
If separated they may suffer emotionally and have difficulty forming future bonds with other pets.
If you are looking to adopt two cats, an already bonded pair is a good choice, as they will comfort each other through the stress of relocation. , Pick out a name that fits your little bundle of furry joy. , While you're waiting, you can make sure to purchase everything you'll need for it. , You can order a tag online.
Collars are available at any pet store in your area. , If it already knows how to use one, make sure the first thing it finds is where the litter box is.
Also, if your house is large, consider allowing the kitten to only explore one room at first, followed by another, and another until it knows its way around the entire house. , -
Step 2: or wherever there is a litter of kittens that need adoption.
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Step 3: Ask the owner how they have been treated
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Step 4: and if they have any medical conditions.
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Step 5: Watch the cats or kittens play and interact with each other for a short time.
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Step 6: Ask when the kittens were born to see if they are old enough for adoption.
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Step 7: Find out whether the cat you're interested is one of a bonded pair.
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Step 8: Here comes the fun part: Naming your new kitty!
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Step 9: If you don't have kitten supplies
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Step 10: or if it's still too young to take home
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Step 11: make arrangements concerning when you can come pick your kitten up.
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Step 12: Buy a collar and tag with your address
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Step 13: phone number
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Step 14: and your cat's name.
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Step 15: Take the kitten home
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Step 16: and introduce it to its new surroundings.
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Step 17: Enjoy your cat.
Detailed Guide
If the cat is old enough, ask to see documents confirming that it's had its shots and tested negative for FIV and other such viruses.
Depending on the cat's age, you should also ask whether or not it's been spayed or neutered, and if not and you're adopting from a shelter or rescue, whether or not they will do so before placing the animal.
Most good reputable organizations will not adopt out a "whole" animal that still might reproduce and create more unwanted pets. , You should get an idea of which ones are mellow, and which ones are friendly.
Enter the area where they are kept and sit down.
Again, the friendly, curious ones will probably come up to you, and the shy, mellow ones will hang back.
A tail between the legs is a sign that a cat or kitten is afraid
- if so, don't push things.
Try playing with them with a simple toy, and see which ones are energetic and playful, and which ones look like their future will consist of long naps in the sun.
While hyperactivity may be cute in a kitten, consider what kind of cat you will want 10 years in the future. , If they are, pick the one that seemed to like you the most, check its gender, and pay for it (or maybe you don't need to pay for the kittens).
Kittens are usually best adopted out after 12 weeks of age, although there's no upper limit on how old a cat can be when you bring it home (shelters are often full of adult cats, and they're usually already litter-trained, too!). , Cats sometimes come into shelters with another cat with whom they have already bonded, or form a bond while in the shelter.
If separated they may suffer emotionally and have difficulty forming future bonds with other pets.
If you are looking to adopt two cats, an already bonded pair is a good choice, as they will comfort each other through the stress of relocation. , Pick out a name that fits your little bundle of furry joy. , While you're waiting, you can make sure to purchase everything you'll need for it. , You can order a tag online.
Collars are available at any pet store in your area. , If it already knows how to use one, make sure the first thing it finds is where the litter box is.
Also, if your house is large, consider allowing the kitten to only explore one room at first, followed by another, and another until it knows its way around the entire house. ,
About the Author
Michelle Price
Experienced content creator specializing in home improvement guides and tutorials.
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