What You Should Do Before Adopting a Cat into Your Home

• Author: Chris Remington
• Posted: 2024-08-23

Adopting a new cat into your home can be an exciting experience because you will have a companion for many years. However, it is essential to consider the long-term financial and care commitments involved before getting a cat. Here are the considerations you should make before you start the process of bringing a cat home:
 

1. Involve Your Family

Before you bring the cat home, let everyone in the family know what you are planning and that they agree. Find out if there is anyone allergic to cats. Most people give out their cats because of allergies. If you don't know if you or any other family member is allergic to cats, consider spending some time with some to see how you react before welcoming one into your home. Plan what to do if you or your loved ones develop allergies after adopting the cat.

Also, know who will groom, feed, and clean the litter box before the cat arrives. Even though it should be the adults' responsibility to take care of the cat, you can allow the children to help. If you become overwhelmed by the whole issue, consider giving the cat a gift. However, only give the cat to someone who understands and is ready to take care of it.
 

2. Prepare Yourself to Spend More than One Decade with the Cat

Healthy cats live for more than one and a half decades. Therefore, adopting a cat is a long-term commitment you shouldn't make before understanding what it entails. Most people get cats before knowing what to expect and abandon them later or give them away. Before welcoming a furry friend to your home, you need to have what it takes to responsibly take care of a cat because it is not a disposable pet.
 

3. Prepare a Budget

Before adopting a kitty, research the cost of caring for it to know if you can afford it. It can be expensive to raise the cat for the first year. You will need money for vaccinations, food and supplies, deworming, and neutering. However, adopting a cat from a shelter can be cheaper because most facilities provide the cats with the most basic services.

Additionally, older cats need more vet care. Prepare a budget for cat care's short- and long-term expenses. Also, set some cash aside for medical emergencies that may arise and choose the best insurance package for your cat.
 

4. Consider if the Cat will Fit into Your Lifestyle

Even though cats are independent beings, they need love and companionship. They need to spend time with humans and do things that make them happy. Consider the time you'll have to spend with the new cat. If you work full-time or your job involves a lot of traveling, think about how to create time to spend with the new cat. Prepare yourself to clean the litter boxes and handle damage to products and furniture through scratching.
 

5. What Kind of Home Do You Live In?

Do you own a home, or you'll get permission from the landlord to live with a cat? Will you afford the monthly pet fee? Avoid bringing a cat into your home without informing your landlord since they may serve you with an eviction notice. Also, consider if you'll need to move in the future. Many cat owners give out their pets when moving. However, you can always move with your cat whenever you relocate.
 

6. Do You Want a Kitty or an Adult Cat?

Kittens get into trouble because they love playing. Hence, you will need to dedicate more time, attention, and energy to caring for them. Since kitties like having company all the time, experts advise that you should adopt more than one at a time, especially if you spend a lot of time away from home. Kittens don't love staying in the company of older cats.

If you have other cats in your home, consider adopting similar ages. Cats enjoy the company of others their age better than younger or older ones. If you have other pets in your home, consider if they will accept the new cat before adoption.

If you haven't yet decided to add a new cat to your home, consider the above before doing something you'll regret later. While adopting a kitty can be fun and rewarding, take your time and research widely. Knowing what to expect will enable you to enjoy a long and enjoyable relationship with your new furry friend.