:: Tips ::
So you've decided to add to your family and purchase a kitten?
Raising a kitten is always an appealing thought - they're tiny, they're adorable, they're just babies! However, the fascination of kittenhood does not last forever, and indeed requires more time and work than an adult cat.
For this reason, you may wish to consider the possibility of purchasing a young adult. Adult cats can be just as rewarding as kittens and are probably more suitable for homes with young children as they are wiser and tend to avoid situations where they may get hurt. Kittens are more likely to get under the feet of young children and risk being stepped on.
There are quite a few aspects to take into consideration when bringing a new cat or kitten into the home.
*If you have a full time job and there is no-one else home during the day it is important to remember that your cat will be lonely and will want your attention when you are home. For this reason it may be worth considering purchasing two cats so that they have each other for company during the day. Burmese, Siames and Orientals are very loving cats who can become extremely devoted to their owners, consider themselves to be part of the family and do not take kindly to being ignored. If you don't think you would be able to cope with a cat which is so people-oriented you may be better off choosing another breed of cat which is more reserved and less outgoing.
* Do you have children?
Burmese, Siames and Orientals enjoy the company of children who treat them with care and respect. It is important to teach your children the importance of being gentle and that animals are living creatures who feel pain the same way we do. Cats have sharp claws and teeth which they can use to protect themselves if they are treated roughly. Teach your children to understand a feline's occasional need for privacy and its right to choose when and when not to play.
* Do you have other pets?
If the answer is yes, you need to consider your current pets too. How might they be likely to tolerate a newcomer? If you own a dog, is it likely to be gentle with a feline? Sometimes dogs and cats can become great friends, and often end up playing and sleeping together . However, there are certain breeds of dogs which may be aggressive towards a feline, and if you own one of these, please do not consider buying a cat until the dog is no longer a member of the household .
Once you have carefully considered the breed of cat, and are happy that you can meet the requirements for a happy human-feline relationship, you are ready to buy. Always buy from a registered breeder. Most reputable breeders will not sell their kittens before they reach 12 weeks of age and it is now common practice for kittens to be desexed and fully vaccinated before going to their new homes. Desexing does not in any way impair their physical or mental development, but in fact, improves their quality of life and helps to increase their life span.
Tips for choosing your kitten
Choose one that is alert and lively with a playful and inquisitive nature. Bear in mind that kittens do sleep much of the time, so don't assume a kitten is lethargic just because it might be napping or may have just woken from a nap.
Make sure the kitten runs and jumps with ease and look for bright eyes and clean nose and ears.
Check for healthy teeth and gums by looking inside the mouth and look for a shiny, silky coat free of parasites.
Bear in mind that some kittens are naturally more timid than others but are likely to make equally rewarding companion pets as those which are bolder and more extroverted. However, be wary of a kitten which is literally terrified of humans and which endeavours to avoid human contact at all costs.
Oriental type breeds such at the Burmese, Oriental and Siamese crave the company of humans, so don't buy one unless you are prepared to return the love and companionship you cat will give.
© Daphine Cats 2008