You thought about it for a while and you decided to buy a kitten. But there is something to it. What should you consider before buying a kitten? Here's a list of 7 tips to keep in mind when buying a cat.
1. A big decision
It is wonderful to be with a cat, but it is a big decision. The average life expectancy of a cat is 14 years, but domestic cats often live longer than that. Keep in mind that a cat needs time, money and love all these years.
2. Can you afford it?
A cat costs money, and especially the first year of owning a cat entails a lot of costs. This is when the cat needs to be vaccinated, neutered and microchipped. And don't forget any unforeseen costs in addition to food and toys!
3. Do you have time?
Cats are social animals. Do you work a lot, have a busy free time or do you often travel? If you can't spend time with your cat, it's probably time to think again, because the cat needs company. According to animal welfare legislation, a cat must have social contact at least twice a day. So that's the minimum level!
4. How do you live?
Cats are curious and like to discover their environment. Both outside and inside. You must secure your home for the sake of you and the cat. Set aside delicate items that could break or fall. Also take a look at your houseplants, many of the most common plants are poisonous to cats. Also make sure to lower the toilet lid so your kitten doesn't fall into the toilet.
5. Do your research
Different breeds behave differently and need different types of care. For example, there are breeds of cats that thrive better indoors – while some need to be outside and some love children more than others. Read on and see which cat suits you!
6. Castration, chipping and registration
There are many homeless cats. Cats that have run away, were abandoned or were born in the wild. To prevent the number of homeless cats from increasing, it is important that we identify and neuter our cats. When the cat is microchipped, it is important to register the cat.
7. Adopt a cat
Is your cat in a cat shelter? There are many cat shelters across the country that want to give homeless cats a second chance – and you can help them. When you adopt a homeless cat from a cat house, you both get a new friend and you create space for a new kitten in the cat house! You can easily save two cats.
