Cats are wonderful companions that can help relieve stress, anxiety, and reduce loneliness for one person households. They’re also a small furry pet that are great for families looking for a pet that loves to play and snuggle, yet doesn’t require as much attention as a dog would. If you’re thinking of getting a cat, take a look at these things to think about beforehand to make sure it’s the right decision for you.
Cats get scared too
Just like humans, cats can become scared and anxious without any warning and when this happens, they like to retreat to a safe space to remain calm and “protect” themselves. If you notice your cat hiding away, it’s perfectly okay to leave them to it. Make sure that fresh water and food is available and don’t worry - they’ll come out when they’re ready. Choosing an enclosed cat bed is a great way of giving them space to hide when they’re feeling scared.
The cost of owning a cat
You might not think about it when you’re excited about getting a cat, but you should consider the lifetime cost before committing to buying a cat. Not only do you have to think about food and litter box essentials, but you’ll also need to think about the cost of vaccinations, routine vet check ups, insurance, and also spaying your cat. The cost mounts up to higher than you might think, and if you can’t commit to that, perhaps getting a cat isn’t the right option right now.
Will they be lonely?
All animals get lonely, and if your cat will be at home for long periods of time alone, then it might be worth buying a cat with a companion. If you’re buying from a litter, consider buying one of their siblings too to keep each other company. They can play together too, preventing you or any family members becoming the brunt of an overly excited kitten claw.
They don’t need regular baths!
You’ve probably seen lots of videos online of people bathing their cats but the truth is, they don’t need one as often as a dog would! Cats groom themselves multiple times a day, and unless they’ve managed to roll in something awful when they’ve been outside, they shouldn’t need a bath regularly. However, grooming your cat by brushing their fur can help prevent hairballs and keep their coat soft and shiny.
Spay your cat
Spaying your cat not only prevents unwanted kittens arriving, but can also protect your cat from numerous diseases. Spaying can also help calm cats down. It’s a one time cost and has many benefits, so consider spaying your cat for both theirs and your benefit.
Get a scratching post
Finally, cats love to use their claws for playing and hunting and sometimes - unintentionally - this can hurt humans too! Buy a scratching post to allow them to wear down their claws! Not only will this benefit them, but it will reduce the chances of being scratched when playing with your cat.
