CAT CHECKLIST #1

SHOULD I GET A CAT

by Glory Wade

Cat personalities are as varied as those of dogs, and just as rewarding. The degree of aloofness and independence varies greatly from cat to cat. Before you make this long term commitment, there are numerous things to consider.

We offer this printer-friendly checklist/questionnaire of things to consider when making the big decision to get a cat, or not.

1. Why do you want a cat?

_____ Companionship

_____ For the kids

_____ Other

1. Who wants the cat?

_____ You _____ Spouse/Roommate(s) _____ Kids

1. Who will take care of the cat?

_____ You _____ Spouse/Roommate(s) _____ Kids

1. Bearing in mind the age(s) of your kid(s), will they be able to treat the cat properly?

_____ Yes _____ No

1. Do you have any other pets already? If so, do you think they will interact well?

_____ Yes _____ No

1. Can you make a long term commitment of approximately 12 years?

_____ Yes _____ No

1. Does anyone in your family, or anyone who visits, have pet allergies?

_____ Yes _____ No

1. How much time do you have for the cat?

_____ Very little _____ Evenings & Weekends _____Every day

A cat alone for long periods of time (8 hours or more), especially from the time they join your family, can result in a frightened, shy or extremely antisocial pet.

1. Where do you live?

_____ House _____ Apartment _____ Other

_____ In the city _____ Suburbs _____Country

1. Will the cat be allowed outside?

_____ Yes _____ No

I personally recommend not allowing cats outside unless on a leash, but not everyone thinks that way.

1. How energetic is your lifestyle?

_____ Laid back _____ Medium _____ High

1. How much time can you devote to grooming?

_____ 5 minutes daily _____ 15 minutes daily _____1/2 hour weekly

1. Will you be a responsible cat owner?

_____ Spay/Neuter

_____ Feed appropriately

_____ Clean litter box daily

_____ Maintain required vaccinations

_____ Teach proper behavior (not scratch furniture or people when playing, not jumping on tables/counters, etc.)

_____ Clean teeth

_____ Licensing (if applicable)

1. Can you handle the trials and tribulations of raising a kitten (clawing, socializing)?

_____ Yes _____ No

If the answer is “No”, you are best to get an adult cat.

1. Purebred or mixed breed? This is a matter of preference.

_____ Mixed Breed _____ Purebred

If you want to be notified when the next Checklist - “Choosing a Cat” - is up on the website, please email your request to us.

If I missed anything important that you think should be included, please email your suggestion(s) to us. Thank you!