Are you considering adopting a new kitty? If so, you may be planning a trip to a shelter in search of your cat. This is a fantastic method to discover a new feline companion! Of course, adopting a cat is a significant shift, so there are other things to consider. Continue reading for suggestions from a local Black Hills, SD veterinarian on finding Fluffy and assisting her with her new surroundings.
Selecting the Ideal Kitty
Choosing a kitty can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. After all, Fluffy will be with you for several years, if not decades. It’s critical to find the ideal match.
Here are some things to consider:
Breed: The AKC recognizes approximately 200 dog breeds, each with unique size, traits, energy levels, and grooming requirements. Kitty breeds have less variation than dogs, but this does not mean that breed is irrelevant. Siamese cats are known for their playful and friendly nature, as well as their tendency to express their ideas openly. A Ragdoll, on the other hand, is likely to be a charming, shy little love bug.
Age: The age of your feline companion must also be considered.
- Kittens: We know how hard it is to resist kittens. They’re cute, lovable, fun, cute, playful, and really cute. It’s also fun to raise your pet yourself. However, baby cats are like furry little toddlers: they’re small bundles of mischievousness, and are quite energetic.
- Adults: Grown-up cats are also delightful. Fluffy may still be lively, but she has most likely outgrown the need (or capacity) to burrow under your entertainment center or climb the shower curtains. Your pet will probably already have been fixed, and you’ll be able to get a pretty good idea of her purrsonality.
- Seniors: A senior cat may not be as playful as a baby, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s nice to have a peaceful pet who just wants to sleep and cuddle. Furthermore, senior cats have a difficult time finding new homes. It’s a terrific feeling to help them!
Appearance: It’s not uncommon for people to have particular preferences regarding your cat’s coat length, color, and pattern. Many of our clients believe that their cats are the cutest felines ever, and they are all correct!
History: If you’re getting a kitten, this is probably a moot concern, but it’s important to think about for an older cat, especially if you have other pets. Some kitties get along well with dogs and other cats. Others would be better off as only pets.
Tempurrament: Kitties all have distinct personalities. One cat may be a cuddly lapcat, while another may silently criticize you from her cat tower. It is critical to establish an emotional bond with your prospective pet.
Health: If you look through adoptable pet listings, you might find that some cats have FeLV. Fluffy can still have a full, happy life despite her condition. However, if you have another cat, it will not be a suitable fit. If you wish to get two cats, consider getting two FeLV-positive cats.
Your Financial Situation: Cats aren’t the most expensive pets, but there are costs associated with owning and caring for them. Make certain that you can afford to feed, litter, and provide veterinary care for your kitty companion. Fluffy will also require toys and catnip, though these expenses should be minor.
Getting Ready For Your New Kitty
You’ll need to gather some materials before taking your kitty companion home. Your feline companion will need food, toys, a carrier, dishes, leash and collar, beds, a litterbox, and litter. Some of these items should be picked with Fluffy’s age in consideration.
- Avoid using clay or clumping cat litter with your kitten.
- A senior may require a low-to-the-ground box that is easy to enter and exit.
- Put your pet’s belongings in a peaceful area so she may relax and unwind.
Bring Fluffy To Her Veterinarian
Taking your feline companion to the vet should be one of the first things on your to-do list. We thoroughly enjoy meeting new patients! Aside from purr checks, we’ll do a thorough examination of Fluffy from head to tail. Your cat will also get checked for illnesses and parasites. Because the shelter atmosphere might be very congested, there is always a risk of transmission.
We recommend that your feline buddy be kept separate from other pets at first. Allow them to interact only after your vet has given you the go-ahead. This is important due to the risk of parasites and disease. Shelters normally strive to keep things clean and disinfected, but with pets going in and out on a daily basis, it’s tough to maintain a sanitary atmosphere. Kitties can contract—and pass on—a variety of diseases, such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, Rabies, Ringworm, Feline Infectious Peritonitis, and Upper Respiratory Tract Infection. Parasites are also a possible risk. Your veterinarian will also discuss product options with you and assist you in selecting the right products for you and your feline overlord.
This is also an excellent opportunity to get personalized advice on your pet’s diet, grooming, and overall health.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Black Hills, SD Veterinary Clinic
Looking for an excellent vet in the insert area? Is it necessary to bring your new pet in for an exam? Please do not hesitate to reach out. As your local Black Hills, SD pet hospital, we are here to assist you.
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