Adopting a cat or kitten, or even more than one, is an exciting and rewarding experience. But it's also a responsibility. So before you jump in, we recommend that you and your family think about these questions together.   

• Do you have any other pets and how will they react to a new cat?

• Is your current residence suited to the cat you’re considering?

• How will your social life or work obligations affect your ability to care for a cat?

• Do you have a plan for your new cat during vacations and/or work travel?

• How do the people you live with feel about having a cat in the house?

• Are you (or your spouse, partner or roommate) intolerant of hair, dirt and other realities of sharing your home with a cat, such as allergies?

• Do you or any of your household/family members have health issues that may be affected by a cat?

• Is there an adult in the family who has agreed to be ultimately responsible for the cat’s care?

 

You can't put a price on love but cats do come with some costs. Here's some items that can add up if you aren't prepared: 

• Food, treats, and dishes

• Routine veterinary care

• Microchips or collars/identification tags

• Lots of cat litter and box (or boxes)

• Grooming equipment and supplies plus professional grooming if needed

• A bed and toys - even catnip

• A crate or carrier

• Unexpected costs: Accidents and illness can result in costly emergency veterinary care. 

• A cat with special physical or behavioral challenges may require specialized support.

• For more on typical cat care costs visit Annual Cat Care Costs.

 

Cats are more independent than some other pets but they still need love and attention. Do these things fit into your schedule?

• Feeding once or twice a day, more often in the case of kittens, and supplying fresh water.

• At least one hour a day with your cat training, exercising, grooming, and playing or just lap time.

• Cats, especially young cats with energy need more time to exercise and interactive toys to keep them entertained.

• Cats with long coats need 20 minutes a day of grooming to prevent matting.

• Cats with certain medical conditions may need additional attention, including specifically timed injections in the case of diabetic animals.

• Remember that adopted cats may need additional bonding and reassurance time in the early weeks.