If you’re reading this article, congratulations! Despite the occasional joke that cats seem cold and unfeeling, cats actually bring so much warmth and joy to a household, as they are adorable and calming companions. While there is no harm in purchasing a cat, adopting a cat is always encouraged as they usually come from shelters. Shelters are often flooded with all kinds of strays and are forced to euthanize a lot of them due to the overburdened capacity. Thus, adopting a pet means you are opening up space and saving a life. We understand that you may be anxious about becoming a new cat owner, so here are 5 cat adoption tips to guide you on your journey!
Quarantine Your Cat
If you have other pets within your home, it would be best to quarantine your new cat to protect their health as well as the health of other animals near them. If your adopted cat has not been vaccinated yet, it is vulnerable to getting diseases. You may prepare a safe room for your cat that is quiet and clean throughout this process, as transitioning from the shelter to a new place could also be stressful for your cat. It is very important to make your cat comfortable in its new home. This means that it would need time to adjust to its new surroundings, and contact with other pets in the house might not be a good idea.
Prepare The Essentials
This goes without saying, but a pet is a commitment, and you must be equipped with proper essentials like food, water, litter, cat post, and toys. Do take note that cats are territorial creatures that thrive on routine, so it would be wise to set up with a routine that fits around your lifestyle that your cat could easily fall into. An unpredictable schedule would raise their stress levels, and this could affect their health adversely. Your cat will definitely appreciate a solid schedule that prioritizes their meals, sleep, and playtime.
Observe For Any Symptoms
Do observe your new cat for the first 2 weeks for any symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, flu, or other symptoms that could be red flags. It is crucial to be connected to a local veterinary clinic in your area that you could consult, to alleviate these symptoms. If you are adopting a kitten, bear in mind that kittens have weaker immune systems, and typically require more veterinary visits compared to an adult cat.
Be Patient
Cats are typically resistant to change, and may not open up to you completely at first. Do not be deterred if it hisses or growls at you, as is probably nervous. You may respond in a soft tone, and eventually, when the cat trusts you more, you could slowly integrate the cat to other parts of the house. With enough time and patience, your cat will eventually adjust and will be excited to explore its new home and family.
Shower Them With Lots Of Love
Most importantly, shower your new furry friend with lots of love! To do this, it is crucial to build a bond with your cat. Interact with them frequently, and eventually, you’ll understand its personality and needs. Having a few cat treats nearby would come in handy too, as animals generally love to eat! Rewarding them with treats would gradually lead them to associating you positively, and they will eventually warm up to you.
Do note that when looking for a cat for your household, it is more than just getting a cat that looks cute. It is important to look out for details like the breed, age, personality, health, and behavioral issues. Understanding these details will determine whether the cat will be suitable for your family and lifestyle. You can never go wrong with these tips! As time goes by, you will undoubtedly learn more about your cat, and be better at taking care of it. Have fun with your furry friend, and enjoy the cuddles!
