In our society, having a pet is considered as a luxury. People who raise
cats and kittens are thought to be rich people who have a lot of time to spend
with them. I have always been a cat lover, had that dream of a soft friend who
I enjoy cuddling. However, my mom did not like cat, furthermore, she was scared
of cats. So I could not have one. When I came to the united states to study, I
lived alone. It was the perfect timing for my dream to come true.It was not easy though. Actually I discovered that having a pet is the same as having a baby that do not grow up. And we need to prepare for the new pet pretty much the same way we prepare ourselves and homes for the new born. By the way, if you want to enjoy the presence of your pet in your life and home, you should consider the cat as a member in your family. Be ready for some changes in your home to help it adapt in the new home.
You may think I am over indulging my cats, but I assure you, I have never regretted what I did. I used to read about encouraging people to have a cat not only to decrease the number of street cats but also because studies showed that stroking on a soft cat fur helps to decrease the stress and help control high blood pressure. After having my lovely "Willy" I found that every word was correct. These little cuddly soft creatures are very adorable in a way we hate to admit, and you will not know how much you will love them until you pass through the experience of living with them. Many people accused cats of being cold and stupid. The truth is, cats are not dogs. They are very intelligent and smart, they are more independent than dogs. They have a lot of passion and love. But remember, while dogs like to act as slaves, cats like to act as kings and queens. Every cat has its own character, to enjoy the company of your little furry friend, try to understand him/her.
Since I liked my experience with cats, I was talking about it everywhere. Many people were excited to have a cat in their lives. However, the question I always heard was: " I would love to have a cat, however, I don't know how to take care of it !" . So I decided to write today about this subject hoping to help new cat owners or owners to be.
First: If you have the intention to have a cat or a pet in general, you should treat this creature as a member of your family. You should know that you will responsible on him/her for his whole life (including: food, shelter especially when you are away and
health care). I saw people having little kitten for their kids (like toys!),
when they grow up or they get bored of, they kick them to the streets. This is
not acceptable. Cats live for about twenty years, so if you are not ready to be
responsible on a life for twenty years or so, please don't think about it. Second: Start looking for the most appropriate breed for you. There are many cat breeds that differ in shape, size, color and personality. When you want to have a cat in your home, try to find the best breed for you. For me I had the "British Shorthair" cats. They are intelligent and independent, in the mean time, they are very affectionate. Because of their medium length coat, they don't need as much combing as long haired cat breeds. Don't forget to ask about you new cat vaccinations and if it needs more vaccines.
Third: Prepare you home to be their home: Although cats spend 16 hours daily sleeping, they like to play. Prepare some nice place for them to play, they like cat trees. You don't need expensive toys. Sometimes, empty boxes and paper bags are their favorite toys. They also like sponge ball and laser pointers. For cats food, try to give them the kinds that are appropriate for their age and type. Cats need more fats and protein in their diet than dogs. Make sure you are not providing them with a food that causes allergy to them. You need to avoid poisonous foods. Pick the litter box according to your cat size. Buy litter that is as natural as possible. Avoid these kinds that spread dust as it could go into your cat's lung. If you are concerned of having your furniture scratched by your cat, get a scratch pole. My cats loved the type that is wrapped with the a rope more than the card board.
Finally: Make your home cat safe: Cats are curious and they push their nose everywhere. They always look for places to hide. Try to block the small areas that are not accessible for you as you will not be able to reach them if anything happened to them. Especially behind your electric appliances. Never open the window if your cat is around, especially if you live in a high floor. Cats tend to jump from the window, they push themselves even into a very small opening. Take your cat to another room if you want to ventilate your home. You home plants may also be harmful or poisonous to your cat. Make sure they are not.
At the end, I hope this blog could help you with some information about Making the decision of having a cat in your life. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I will post more blogs about cats in the future.
With My best wishes for you of a happy life..
