Am I Ready to Adopt?

What to Know Before You Adopt a Cat

Adopting an animal is definitely fun and exciting, but there are a few things you should consider before deciding to bring home a cat or kitten.

Adult CatCats are a long term commitment. Indoor cats live to be about 14 to 20 years old on average. However, it’s not uncommon for a cats to live well over 20 years. If you’re considering adopting a young kitten, make sure you’re prepared to take care of them for the next two decades. Adoption should be a lifelong commitment for your kitten, so if you aren’t prepared for the long haul, you might want to reconsider adopting a cat.

Cats need exercise. You won’t necessarily have to buy a leash for your cat and take it on a walk, but healthy cats do require a bit of exercise. Kittens are full of energy and often play spontaneously, but older cats might 2require a little bit of help. Buying a few toys to help interest your cat in playing will greatly benefit their health and well being. You’ll only have to play with your cat for about 15 to 20 minutes every day, and a few cat toys will likely cost less than $20.

Cats can be expensive. Obviously you’ll need to provide your cat with food and kitty litter, but there are a few expenses that may be a bit more surprising. For instance, your cat will need flea and tick prevention. This is especially important if you have any other pets, like dogs, that spend time both inside and outside. Flea and tick prevention 3medicine can be purchased through a veterinarian. In addition to this, your cat will also need a few vaccinations. This includes multiple shots for common illnesses as a kitten, which gradually weans out to a shot every year or two when the cat is an adult. Along with the charge to visit the vet itself, your cat’s shots will likely cost around $100 per year.