Adopting a cat is a much bigger responsibility than many people realize.
Cats have a reputation for being incredibly independent creatures that don’t need anyone, which makes people think that being a cat parent is no big deal. But the reality is that adopting a cat is a lot more responsibility than you probably think, and before you take this big step, you’ll need to make sure that you are ready. One thing that can give you a hint as to whether you are ready for cat adoption or not is your motivation for adopting a cat in the first place.
What makes you want to adopt a cat?
There are both good reasons and bad reasons to adopt a cat, and if you’re motivated to cat adoption because of a bad reason, it might be good to rethink the adoption.
Good Reasons to Adopt
You’re looking for companionship
While cats may not live in packs like dogs do, they are still very social creatures who make great companions. Whether you’re catching up on the morning news or watching your favorite show, nothing quite compares to cuddling with a cat.
You know that it’s good for you
Not only does sharing your love and life with a cat benefit the cat, but it also benefits you! Caring for a cat can help to lower your blood pressure, relieve stress, gives you a reason to get up in the morning and encourages physical activity. While this is a positive reason to adopt a cat, it shouldn’t be your only reason. If this is your only reason for wanting to adopt a cat, consider pet sitting or volunteering at a shelter instead of adopting yourself.
Not-so-Good Reasons to Adopt
Your child wants one
No matter how much your kids beg and plead, if the only reason you are adopting a cat is to appease a child, it’s time to reconsider. Ultimately, you’ll be the one who is responsible for caring for the cat in the end, and in order to provide the kind of care a cat deserves, you have to want to do it. Even if your child is older and they insist that they’ll care for the cat, you will still be financially responsible for the cat’s care. At the end of the day, if you’re adopting a cat to make someone else happy, don’t do it.
You get the impulse
We get it, when you’re at a shelter or a pet store, and there’s an adorable kitten rubbing its face against your hand and purring, it’s pretty hard not to want to take it home with you right then and there. Cats generally live anywhere from 10 to 18 years, with many cats living into their 20s. Adopting a cat means caring for a cat for years to come, and it’s not a decision that should not be made spur of the moment.
You want a pet, and you think a cat will be easier to care for than a dog
While it’s certainly true that cats aren’t as high maintenance as dogs, they are a lot more work than most people realize. Here are just a few of the common misconceptions about care care:
- Cats can fend for themselves – Some people think that there’s no need to feed a cat that you’ve adopted because they can fend for themselves by hunting mice. Even cats who live on farms can’t rely completely on their hunting skills; plus, they tend to be better mousers when they have regular meals.
- Cats are independent and can be left alone – When dog owners go on vacation, they either hire a pet sitter or check their dog into a kennel, but cat owners all too often leave their cats behind on their own. While yes, your cat might not need quite as much attention as a dog might, a cat shouldn’t be left alone for an extended period of time. Cats who are left by themselves for a long time can panic and may end up hurting themselves.
- Cats don’t need to go to the vet – Cats, just like dogs, need regular veterinary care. They can injure themselves and develop illnesses that can only require professional attention. They also need preventative care for things like parasites.
If you’re motivated to adopt a cat because of a negative reason, like your child wants one or you spotted a cute kitten at the pet store, it might be in your best interest and the cat’s to reconsider. If you’re motivated to adopt a cat because of a positive reason, like health or companionship, make sure that you stay tuned for part two of this series to learn what to do and think about before you adopt a cat.
Have questions or concerns? Give us a call at The Vet Set — Carroll Gardens’ premier animal hospital.