If you're considering adopting a cat and think you're ready, consider that first. Think really about the type of cat you want to have. Consider her gender, age, and personality, then visit the cat you're dreaming of before bringing her home. Make sure your home is ready to welcome him and be prepared, you will have to take care of your cat for the rest of his life.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Doing Research
Step 1. Decide what breed of cat you want
Do you want a purebred cat or a crossbreed cat with an unclear ancestry history? Purebred cats are more likely to experience many health problems, so you should do your research and be prepared for them. In contrast, crossbreeds may not have inherited health problems. Make sure all of your potential cats are screened before adoption. It is important to know if the cats have any health problems, such as feline leukemia.
- If you're interested in adopting a purebred cat, look to a trusted breeder and make sure that the cat comes from a breeder with experience in cat genetics and mating, so he or she will genuinely care about the cat they sell.
- If you adopt a cat from a shelter or animal lover group, the cat will usually have been screened and vaccinated regularly. Cats may also have been neutered.
Step 2. Decide on the race you want
Do your research to find a breed that will suit your needs. Different races will have different levels of activity and fun. Consider the traits of each breed below to determine which cat breed is right for you:
- energy level
- need for attention
- love for the owner
- love to meow
- level of calm behavior
- intelligence and independence
- grooming needs (eg whether the cat's hair falls out easily or not)
- compatibility with other pets you have
Step 3. Determine the age of the cat you want to adopt
To do this, first consider the characteristics of the cat you want. Kittens are usually very excited and not yet independent. Adult cats are usually better able to take care of themselves and are not as mischievous as kittens. If there are small children or babies in your family, do not adopt a kitten, as these kittens should not be treated harshly. Kittens will respond by biting and scratching when they are roughed.
Consider adopting an older cat if you are an elderly person yourself. Older cats in shelters are usually not chosen by their potential owners, but these cats are perfect companions for life in old age. Older cats are not as mischievous as younger cats and are calmer
Step 4. Determine the gender of the cat you want
After the cat is neutered, its personality and behavior will not be much different from one another. Both sexes can be sweet, friendly, passionate, or mischievous. If you don't want to adopt a neutered cat, there are some behavioral differences you should consider:
- Male cats: usually pee on vertical surfaces (such as curtains, walls, and doors), enjoy walking and fighting so they get sick more easily and are not suitable as indoor pets.
- Female cat: often meows when in heat and will try her best to run away from home in order to mate. If she is pregnant, there is always a risk in giving birth. You will need the help of a veterinarian at a high cost. You'll also need to find a place to live for the kittens that will be born.
Step 5. Consider buying more than one cat
Many cats enjoy the company of other cats. If you adopt two cats, you don't have to worry that one will be bored, lonely, or cause too much trouble when you leave them at home. Plus, if you adopt from a shelter, this means you've saved the lives of two cats instead of just one.
Make sure your home is spacious enough and that you have enough money to care for more than one cat
Part 2 of 3: Finding the Perfect Cat
Step 1. Visit a shelter in the area where you live or contact a cat breeder
If you want a purebred cat, make an appointment with the breeder to start looking for the cat you want. Ask owners of other breeds of cats where they got their cats from or seek veterinary advice. Usually, people look for cats from nearby shelters. The staff at these shelters are generally well acquainted with the cats they care for and can help you find one that fits your family's circumstances.
You can also search advertisements on websites or newspapers to find cats. This may be cheaper but risky, as you won't know the cat's history or origins. On the other hand, looking at the pet store can also keep you from knowing the history of the cat, unless the store can put you in touch with the breeder
Step 2. Look for signs of a healthy cat
These signs include: his eyes should be clear and not runny, his nose should not have discharge or mucus, and the cat should not sneeze or cough. The cat's fur should also be clean, smooth, and free of tangles. Use your hand to run through the fur and look for fleas (usually small, brown, fast-moving bugs).
A kitten with a “bulky belly” means it may have just eaten or has worms in its intestines. You should also look for signs of diarrhea (either through the litter box or loose stools around the cat's bottom)
Step 3. Get to know some cats
Visit these cats at shelters, farms, or other sources. Play with all the cats you like to see if your personality will match theirs. Consider the type of cat that would be a good fit for your home. When in doubt about a cat's personality, ask shelter workers, breeders, or previous owners.
For example, if you want a friendly cat who enjoys interacting, make sure your cat-to-be will enjoy being petted or sitting on your lap. If you want an independent cat, look for a cat who is less sociable. Some other cats may even enjoy interacting with humans
Step 4. Choose your cat and start the adoption process
This process may differ depending on whether you are adopting a cat from a shelter, buying it from a breeder, or getting it from another source. You may have to meet certain conditions and pay some money before you can take your cat home from the shelter. If you buy a cat from a breeder, it may cost more.
Some shelters and breeders may also ask you questions about your neighborhood before letting you adopt a cat. Others may even make home visits or ask for a list of people who can provide references about the state of your home. If you have a contract, you may need to get written permission from the host before being allowed to have a cat
Step 5. Take the cat to the vet
Cats should get a feline leukemia test if they haven't already. The ears will also be checked for fleas (this is common in kittens) and treated if necessary. The cat's skin should also be checked for fleas or other parasites. You should also make sure the cat gets a worm check.
Even if the results of the deworming test are negative, you may still need to take precautions
Part 3 of 3: Bringing the Cat Home
Step 1. Cats must be vaccinated, neutered and microchipped
If you adopted a cat from a shelter, it may have received all of these types of care. If not, you'll need to do this before the cat reaches a certain age. Your cat should be vaccinated against feline distemper and rabies, but he may also need other vaccinations, depending on what your veterinarian recommends. If your cat hasn't been neutered, you can take advantage of her first vet visit for this operation. It is also recommended that you implant a microchip (which is usually placed under the skin) in case your cat is lost.
Caring for a cat doesn't come cheap, but be aware that emergency treatment for medical conditions that would otherwise be preventable can be much more expensive. You might also consider pet insurance if it's available in the area where you live
Step 2. Prepare a litter box for the cat
Choose a plastic box and fill it with a litter box so the cat can use it as a "toilet" in the room. Place this box in a quiet area of your home and make sure the cat is easy to get to. When you take your cat home, show him the location of this box so he knows where to go when he needs to go to the bathroom.
You can put this box in a quiet hallway or your second bathroom
Step 3. Train the kitten to poop in its proper place
An adult cat may already be able to do this, but you must train the kitten to use the litter box properly. This is quite easy to do. Make sure your brain is in an easy-to-reach location and prepare the kitten. Usually, he will use it instinctively and get used to it after a few bowel movements. Make sure the box is not too high so he can access it easily.
Make sure you clean the box daily and change the litter box weekly to keep the box clean. If you let your cat go outside, she may be pooping a lot outside, which means you don't have to clean the litter box as often (or you probably won't even need the litter box)
Step 4. Offer food and water
Have a plate of water and food that your cat always has access to. Choose the best quality cat food. The price may indeed be more expensive, but this price is still relatively cheap to ensure your cat stays healthy. If you use dry food, make sure you also give it the occasional wet food. Make sure the water bowl is always clean and contains only fresh, dirt-free water. Avoid giving milk or cream, as cats can experience diarrhea and flatulence from it.
- Follow the feeding instructions on the cat food packaging. Cats can eat anything (as long as it's not too much) or be fed three times a day. Offer as few treats as possible, as cats can become obese, which can lead to more serious health problems (such as diabetes).
- Give the kitten special food until he is 1 year old. Then, begin to make the transition to adult cat food in a 7 to 10 day period.
Step 5. Prepare the toys and scratching post
Cats need to sharpen their nails to keep their behavior healthy. If you don't prepare a scratching post, your cat will scratch at wooden furniture and other objects. If you find fingernails falling out around your scratching post, don't worry. This is normal, the cat's nails will come off and replace with newer and sharper ones. If you want to trim your cat's nails to ensure the safety of your family members, make sure you check with your vet first so you don't hurt or scare the cat. Trim their nails only when necessary, because cats use their claws for a variety of things. For cats, life becomes easier when their nails are sharp and not clipped.
Rats or other toys can entertain your cat and get her to exercise
Step 6. Decide if your cat is allowed to go outside or not
If you allow it, make sure you install the cat's door so it can re-enter the house. The recommended type of cat door is one that uses a magnet, so you can prevent other cats from entering your home. Consider the dangers of cats traveling outside, although usually cats will be able to avoid danger after wandering for a while (examples of these hazards are busy streets and stray dogs). A cat who goes out may bring you an 'unexpected gift' when he comes home, but know that this is normal and part of his hunting instincts. If your cat is also starting to urinate outside the house, you don't need to clean the litter box as often.
Step 7. Socialize your cat
Some cats who are not used to being in a relationship with humans may feel uncomfortable around people. If he runs, hides, hisses or spits when he can't escape, this doesn't mean he's acting aggressively, he's just scared. Put your cat in a cage in a room full of human activity, such as the kitchen or living room, so that she can get used to the TV, radio, and normal daily activities of humans.
Do not rush. Don't force the cat to interact with you. Let it come to you gradually
Step 8. Let the cat get used to your presence
Give him small portions of canned cat food (less than a fingertip) to tempt him to approach you. For kittens who are very timid and like to hiss and try to run away, wear leather gloves so you don't get hurt if they bite. Wrap the cat in a towel and leave only the head exposed. This will soothe the cat and protect you from scratching your cat.
Hold the kitten close to your body so that it is soothed by your warmth and heartbeat. Do it for a few hours each day to make sure he gets used to your presence. You'll know when you've had success when the kitten is comfortable enough to stretch and fall asleep while you hold it
Step 9. Watch the cat's behavior in its new environment
Once you have a new cat in your home, make sure everyone in your family knows how to care for it. Introduce your cat to other animals so that he doesn't get scared. If you have kittens, make sure they don't play rough with them. Pay attention to your cat's behavior and diet and bowel movements to let you know when something is out of place (which could be a sign that she may be sick).
Play with your cat often and provide for her needs. You will eventually be grateful that he became such a good friend
Tips
- Due to the large number of stray cats and for the health and happiness of your cat, it is recommended that you perform sterilization on your cat.
- The earlier you start training your cat to socialize, the better. Kittens 12 to 16 weeks old will be easier to socialize with.
- Cats don't need to be bathed unless they're dirty or have skin problems. Cats can clean themselves.
- Kittens should be taken to the vet regularly to complete the vaccination process. Healthy adult cats should be checked by a veterinarian annually. Older cats or those with chronic health problems will need more frequent vet visits.
