Before you rush out to buy or adopt a cat or a kitten, it’s essential to think about how a cat will affect and change your lifestyle. These ten considerations will help you begin to understand what owning a cat will mean for you and your family. Here are 10 things to consider before owning a cat.

1. Do I have time for a cat?

While cats are less dependent than dogs, they still need your time, energy and money in order to ensure they are healthy and happy. If you work full-time or travel often, it may be difficult to dedicate the right amount of time to your feline friend. Indeed, owning a cat might not be right for you. Or, perhaps it’s just the wrong time! It’s better to think about these things now, rather than later.

2. Is this a family decision?

It’s vital to check with the people in your household if they are comfortable owning a cat. While it may technically be “your cat” or “your kid’s cat”, there is still something that everyone should do to contribute towards caring for a cat, whether it’s feeding, grooming, cleaning the kitty litter or refraining from tormenting it!

Ultimately, owning a cat involves everyone to some degree, as you all need to look out for your purring pal and keep its health and welfare top of mind.

3. What will Fido and Rex think?

If you already own a cat or a dog it’s important to think about how a new addition to the family will affect them. Your current pet may become territorial or aggressive towards a new feline companion. If you have a small pet like a fish or a hamster, you will need to think about how a cat might view these pets (as a lunch entrée, probably!) and take steps to protect them if necessary.

4. Can I afford the cost of owning a cat?

Have you stopped to consider the cost of cat ownership? Preventative medicines, toys, food, collars, scratch posts, bedding and vet bills all add up. While the cost of a cat may seem like a pittance in comparison to a Great Dane, the weekly cost of food and unexpected vet bills may just surprise you. It is important to think about your budget when considering owning a cat. Plus, you might want to factor in the cost of cat insurance too.

5. Which breed should I choose?

Longhair vs. shorthair? Siamese vs. Russian Blue? These are important questions when thinking about owning a cat! There are different personality traits associated with different breeds of cats. You will need to research to decide which breed of cat is right for you.

6. Where will I get my cat?

There are many places where you can buy or adopt a cat. While traditionally people would head to a pet store to pick up a kitty, there are new ways to find your perfect feline companion. For example, cat adoption is growing in popularity. You can adopt cats and kittens from rescue shelters and the RSPCA. If you are after a specific breed of cat you may also wish to check with registered breeders in they have a litter available.

7. Cat vs. kitten

While you might be inclined to go straight for the kittens (and who wouldn’t, they’re adorable!), it’s important to remember that kittens are like any other young animal; they need constant attention and training. Lessons such as “the Persian rug is not a bathroom” and “don’t scratch the furniture” take time to be taught and require A LOT of patience! Older cats are more likely to be aware of these “house-rules” and maybe a little more relaxed than a kitten.

8. Mixed-breed or purebred?

While purebred cats are more likely to have recognisable behavioral traits, all cats will have their own unique personalities. A mixed-breed cat is just as likely to be the perfect cat for you as a Sphinx cat or Ragdoll, perhaps even more as they can be hardier than purebred cats and do not suffer the same genetic diseases. Ultimately, it is up to you to determine whether you wish to choose a purebred cat or a mixed-breed. Just be sure to do your research.

9. Do you live in a cat-friendly home or neighborhood?

Before bringing a cat home, it is important to think about the space you live in. Will your cat be indoors most of the time? In which case, are there plenty of places for them to lie in the sun, or nooks and crannies to hide themselves away in? Do you have a garden for your cat to play in? If you live in a busy neighborhood with lots of traffic it may be safer to keep your cat indoors.

Of course, if you live in a rental or an apartment block, are cats even allowed? These are important things to think about prior to owning a cat.

10. Can you handle a misbehaving cat?

Cats scratch things. It’s going to happen. Every cat goes through what is called “scratching exercises” where they might knead the carpet or claw the sofa. To avoid this you will need to provide your cat with a scratching post or regular nail clipping. That being said though, accidents happen! And it’s important to remember this when determining whether your household is right for a cat.

If you can answer these questions honestly and carefully consider how owning a cat may impact your lifestyle and your wallet, you will be one step closer to determining whether a cat is right for you.

Have you recently brought a cat or kitten into your home? How’s it going? We’d love to hear your stories.