6 Things to Consider before Owning a Family Cat

Posted on Jul 5 2013 - 12:43pm by Charlie

Are you thinking of getting a pet cat for your family? If you are, then there are some things that you need to consider before owning one. Find out what they are below!

1. Cats are for life

You need to be aware that adopting a cat is a lifelong commitment. Did you know that cats can live for up to 20 years of age? You will need to be sure that you can offer the cat a forever home, and that you are prepared to provide them food, shelter and love.

Taking the cat to the RSPCA and telling them that you don’t want to look after the cat any more can be a very stressful situation for your cat, and they will get quite anxious as they will have thought that  they were going to live with you forever!

2. Cats can be expensive

You will need to brace yourself for all of the financial responsibilities that come with owning a cat. According to the This Is Money website, the average annual cost of owning a cat is around £1,028.

That figure includes cat food, vet bills, grooming bills, cattery fees, toys, treats and spot on flea treatments, amongst other things. It doesn’t take into account emergency vet bills, or pet insurance.

3. Cats are a member of the family

Like all pets, cats need love and attention from their human family. It is vitally important that a human bond is created, as this is crucial to developing a long lasting relationship with the cat.

Most of the time, the cat will want to be near you when you are at home, so you should make the effort to pet the cat whenever you pass it.

4. Cats can live indoors

You may not have known this, but cats do not need to go outside. In fact, it is better for cats to stay indoors rather than outdoors; indoor cats live much longer than outdoor cats.

Outdoor cats have a much higher chance of getting some nasty diseases, or of being killed by other animals or motorists. As long as you can provide them with food, water, love, and a stimulating home, indoor cats can have very fulfilling lives.

Make sure that indoor cats have access to plenty of sunlight and windows.

5. Stock up before adopting a cat

If you are about to go ahead and adopt a cat, you need to make sure you have all of the basic supplies needed, such as high quality food, food and water bowls (steel, glass or ceramic is  preferred) a litter tray and litter, some toys for the cat to play with, a scratching post and a pet carrier for trips to the vet (and for collecting the cat from the RSPCA or whatever animal shelter you have chosen).

6. Ensure your home is cat-friendly

Keep any harmful items such as poisonous plants, cleaning fluids, plastic bags and ribbon or string out of your new cat’s sight. Cats are pretty intelligent animals, so make sure things are stored away properly.

 

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