| Contrary to popular belief, cats can be demanding of | | | | There are over 50 cat breeds to choose from. So if |
| your time. We have heard so many people say that | | | | you' are undecided please do some some research |
| they prefer cats, because they do not need much | | | | - Shorthaired breeds |
| care - they hunt, they are independent and will look | | | | - Longhaired Breeds |
| after themselves - not entirely true! | | | | - Foreign Breeds |
| So before we get into the breeds and which breed | | | | - Moggie - you may want an adorable moggie, |
| will suit you best, you need to understand what you | | | | without the papers and long pedigree |
| are in for. | | | | 3. When and where to purchase your cat? |
| Obviously, there are financial implications, such as the | | | | It is always important to consider your own |
| initial cost of the cat, neutering, spaying, vaccinations, | | | | circumstances before bringing a new addition to the |
| food, feeding bowls, cat toys, cat bedding, travel | | | | family - stability is key. So if you are moving home, |
| carriers, litter and trays, grooming tools, toiletries, | | | | having a baby or your marital status is changing, it is |
| medication for hairball and parasites, pet insurance | | | | preferable not to get a cat. |
| and of course the cost of a cattery when you are | | | | Your cat or kitten can be sourced from: |
| off on your annual vacation. Then you need to | | | | - a reputable cat breeder |
| consider a further investment - that of time. | | | | - animal rescue society |
| A well cared for cat will be around for between 15 to | | | | - a friend |
| 20 years. This means daily or weekly grooming | | | | - a stray |
| depending on the cat that you choose. Cats love | | | | - a pet shop |
| attention and companionship and they love their | | | | Each has its merits or de-merits. Purchasing from a |
| humans. Yes they are less demanding of attention | | | | reputable cat breeder means that you are generally |
| than the average dog, but nevertheless, they do | | | | guaranteed of a healthy kitten and you are able to |
| need exercise, feeding, grooming and extra special | | | | select from the litter. The added advantage is that |
| lap time. A time to curl up on their owners warm | | | | you are able to 'meet' the parent cats. Breeders may |
| shoulder or lap while been gently stroked. They love | | | | be more expensive so this may be a consideration. |
| to play, especially a game of fetch, where you do | | | | Rescuing a cat from a shelter or a stray is always a |
| the fetching! | | | | noble cause but do try and establish as much as you |
| Still interested? Of course you are! Then you need to | | | | can about the cat or get a veterinarian to give the |
| decide on whether you want a pedigree cat or a | | | | cat a clean-bill-of-health before adopting. We suggest |
| mixed breed pet quality cat. Some other matters for | | | | you do the same if you are sourcing your pet from a |
| your consideration would be whether you want a | | | | pet shop. |
| male or female, a fully grown cat or a kitten. | | | | 4. What will it cost to keep a cat? |
| Temperament - are you in search of an active, lively | | | | Shop around before taking the plunge. Price should |
| cat or a gentle docile cat? What home environment | | | | not always the first consideration - cheap can cost u |
| will best suit your new companion - a home with a | | | | dearly in the long term. Do not compromise on things |
| garden or a small apartment? Finally, the color and | | | | like pet insurance and food - consider the facts and |
| the breed. | | | | make an informed decision. |
| Your decision is made! | | | | 5. What will my cat need? |
| 1. Why do you want a cat? | | | | Apart from the obvious, like a safe environment, |
| Cats are one of the most popular pets to have - | | | | food, water, bedding, toys and other accessories like |
| they make wonderful companions and can be equally | | | | kitty litter, cat carrier and cat flap, your cat needs |
| affectionate and playful as any canine friend. | | | | commitment and love - lots of it. |
| 2. What type of cat is right for you? | | | | |