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Home>> The
Cat Corner>> Living
With Cats>> Are You Ready For A Cat?
Maybe it’s the lively kitten that grabs your attention. Or it’s knowing that
the adult cat desperately needs a home. Whatever the circumstances, you’re
feeling the tug on your heartstrings. It’s time to take a step back and really
consider the question carefully. Are you ready for the responsibility of owning
a cat?
• Does your lifestyle support owning a pet?
If you travel frequently for pleasure or work, you’ll need to think of someone
who can care for your cat in your absence. Is work the focus of your life?
People who work extremely long hours may enjoy coming home to a cat, but so
much time alone may not be best for the animal.
• Will a cat be welcome in your home? If
you live in an apartment, make sure you’re allowed to have a pet. Even if
that’s not a problem, you should also be sure everyone in your household is in
agreement about getting a cat. People have different pet preferences and
forcing yours on someone else will create endless conflict. Does anyone in your
household have a history of cat allergies? Bringing a cat into proximity with a
seriously allergic person can have dire consequences. If you have young
children and other pets, you must consider how well a new cat will fit in with
them and how well the new addition will be treated.
• Are You Prepared Financially? Cats can
be amazingly independent, but they still require your attention and care and
they will be an expense. Their periodic veterinary care could cost anywhere
from $200 to $1000 per year. On a daily basis, cats need food and fresh water
and their litter boxes need to be kept clean with frequent scooping and
cleaning. Aside from the time involved, this could incur an additional $600 per
year.
Once you’ve considered all the factors, you can be confident that you’re making
an informed decision. And that’s responsible pet ownership!
More Articles:
A Breed Apart
Spraying and Marking
Keeping Your Cat Amused
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