Adopting an older cat... the possibilities (and benefits!) are endless!
by Tammy Gibson
Many people who are thinking of taking on the responsibility of a new pet often think about adorable, playful kittens as their first choice. However, there is a whole other realm of possibility... the adult cat!
Welcoming an older cat into your family has a wealth of benefits. (Of course this generalizes toward adopting a cat that has been treated well for the majority of it's life and has not suffered abuse, medical problems or emotional trauma. Cats who have undergone these situations usually require more specialized (and patient!) care. Natureworks cats have received the best of care both emotionally and physically.)
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They are usually fully trained. They know how to use the litter box, understand not to scratch mom's antique furniture and recognize the sound of a can opener at 100 yards.
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Less rambunctious!! Adults have gone through their hyperactive stage and are usually calmer and less destructive.
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You already know what they will look like as an adult. No guesswork! Often, kittens have one look when they are little and it changes dramatically as they grow.
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Purrrrrrsonality! You pretty much know the temperament of an adult cat from the start. Want a nice sedate cat to cuddle with in front of a fire? Do you prefer active, playful animals?.
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Older cats (meaning not a kitten anymore) are often very affectionate animals. Just because a cat isn't a baby anymore doesn't mean that they won't want to BE babied!
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Taking on an older cat usually doesn't involve quite as much work. Kittens require quite a bit of reassurance, patience, energy and time to ensure they grow up into well-adjusted adults. A full grown cat certainly still has those requirements, but not on the same level. Older cats have been around the block and know a bit about life... whereas kittens still have go learn everything the hard way.
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An older cat has most likely been spayed or neutered. Most animals, once they've hit puberty, have been spayed or neutered. This helps to keep them healthy, happy and easier to manage. By taking on an animal that has already had this procedure done, it saves you the cost of doing it yourself!
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Kittens don't stay kittens forever. So you're absolutely CERTAIN you HAVE to have a little itty bitty kitty? Know what? They only stay that way for a couple of months... and then what do you have? An adult cat!
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You CAN teach an "old cat" new tricks! Adult animals are often easier to train than young ones. They're a little older and wiser... and might teach YOU a trick or two!
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Retired breeders are high quality animals. Wanting the 'best of the breed' but scared to pay the full price for an unproven kitten? Ask around if any catteries have any breeders that they are considering retiring. Perfectly healthy animals are often retired simply because the cattery has run out of room for them or that they are focusing on a different 'bloodline'.
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The Show must go on! Many cat associations still allow 'alters' to be shown. Check to see if a prospective pet is eligible!
(These articles
are for personal use only and may not be reproduced for personal or commercial
use
without permission from the author, Natureworks or other authorized party.)
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