You've done your shopping. You have your supplies. You have your first vet visit scheduled. You're about to bring your new pet home, but what do you do with all of the stuff you just bought? Is your house ready for your newest family member? Think about it. People spend months prepping for a new baby. They get the nursery ready, just so. They safety-proof their home (even though a newborn won't be mobile for months). Whether your new pet is a kitten or a cat, don't they deserve almost as much welcome and care? After all, they WILL be mobile.
1. Place the litterbox in a quiet area if you can, preferably tile floor.
2. Place the food and water dishes in an easy to reach area, but again preferably a tile floor. Fill them with water and dry food as appropriate.
3. Place the scratching post near that piece of furniture you most treasure.
4. Place the beds in areas that are quiet, warm and out of the way. Sprinkle them liberally with catnip.
5. Wash out and clean your spray bottle. Fill it with fresh water.
6. Place the toys in areas through out the house.
7. Anything breakable that is on a shelf or in a precarious position, you may want to move or pack up for a bit until you get to know your new pet better.
8. Move plants to safe places and research plants that may be poisonous to cats. You might want to take these plant (if you already have them) into work or gift them to someone without a cat. Here are some sites to check:
www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/
www.myhealthycat.com/plants-poisonous-to-cats.html
9. Pick up your clothes. Laundry baskets with freshly washed and folded clothes are a cat favorite. If you don't mind the cat hair then disregard this, but if you're fussy about it, put your clothes away.
(Which reminds me, I forgot to have you pick up a lint brush. The ones with the sticky paper are inexpensive and typically work the best. Stock up! They work for more than just clothes. I will talk more about that when I talk about cleaning with pets.)
10. Look for anything else you don't want damaged, don't want cat hair on or seems like it could be a choking hazard (needles with thread on them sitting in a sewing basket, perhaps?).
11. Select a drawer or a basket to keep the miscellaneous cat supplies in.
12. Set the cat treats you've bought out in an area they will be easy to reach when you return with your new pet. You might even want to hide a few through-out your home. A treasure hunt is a great way to keep your pet occupied and you can do it in a way that will lead your pet to the food, the litterbox and bedding. Be creative. BUT! Don't place treats in areas that you don't want your pet going to. Shelving, kitchen counters, tables, cupboards, closets. The treat is a reward. Don't start off by rewarding your pet for going to areas you know you don't want them to go.
Go get your new pet!! (Don't forget your new pet carrier!)
Sunday, February 13, 2011
I've Picked Out A Cat. Now What? Part I: First things first...
I am going to assume for the purpose of this and this series of blogs that this is your first cat ever and that you don't have a dog. I will assume that you might have younger children. I'll talk more about introducing a second cat into your home or introducing a cat into a home with a dog in other blogs.
Moving to a new home, even from a shelter, can be a stressful experience for a cat. You will want to make the introduction as calm and as friendly as possible. I'd recommend, if you've picked out a cat that you ask the shelter or where ever you've found it to hold the cat until you can prep your home first. What will you need to have in your home?
1. Litterbox, litter scoop and cat litter. Type of litterbox? I would base the size on the size of your pet and also on the space you have allotted for a litterbox. My preference is covered. As for type of litter, I would buy a small container (enough to fill the bottom of the litterbox to about 1-1 1/2" depth) to begin with and work to see what your cat prefers.
2. Food and Water Dishes. I'd recommend one food dish for dry food and another for canned. A fairly big water dish, but not huge is also a good idea. While the containers that hold several days worth of water are tempting, I'd only recommend on of those as a back-up water source. I prefer to ensure that my cat has fresh water each day.
3. Cat/kitten food. While there have been a lot of improvements to pet food over the years, I firmly believe that you get what you pay for. I've had good success with the Science Diet brand and also with Purina One and Purina Pro Plan. Iams is also a high quality brand that will give your pet the appropriate nutrition needed. I would select both dry food and canned food. These typically reflect an age range to provide the nutrition needed for the age of your pet. I would initially purchase a small bag of the dry food and a couple of different cans of wet food. Why? While most cats aren't overly finicky about the food they prefer, they can be. My cat Missy turned up her nose at Iams, as a kitten, but loved the Science Diet. Additionally, once you take your new pet in for its first vet visit, your vet will likely have a brand that they prefer.
4. Pet carrier. When I had my first cat, she would ride in the car, sitting across the back of my neck while I drove or on my lap. However,unbeknownst to me at the time, this was risky for myself, for her, for other drivers on the road and for my car. A pet loose in a vehicle can cause an accident. In the event of an accident, they could get loose from your vehicle and run into oncoming traffic. They could be thrown from a seat and be injured the same as an unsecured person. The cat could also cause injury to a person in the vehicle as could any unsecured, suddenly flying object (mind you, a flying object WITH claws and teeth - even the gentlest cat has been known to bite or claw when panicked). After almost being involved in an accident with her in the car, I resolved from that point on to keep my pets secured. Aside from safety, some cats have been known to become car sick. Trust me when I say that it is FAR easier to clean a cat carrier than the upholstery of your vehicle.
5. One or two cat toys. Don't go overboard here. Try one or two until you learn what the cat prefers.
6. Cat treats. Cats CAN be trained as I will discuss in a future blog and positive reinforcement is the best way.
7. Spray bottle. Unfortunately, some times a little non-harmful negative reinforcement could be required.
8. Cat collar. If you have a kitten, especially a young one (6-12 weeks), I HIGHLY recommend a collar with a bell on it. All cats tend to get underfoot on occasion, but more so kittens. A bell collar (while irritating at night) helps ensure you have an idea of where your new pet is. For an older cat, you might want a collar that will automatically release if it gets caught on something. When sizing a collar, you want it to be big enough to be able to slip a finger or two under it. A collar should not be tight against the pet's neck. If it is, the collar is too small.
9. Scratching post. Don't go whole hog on this. There are many varieties of scratching posts out there, some running a couple of hundred dollars. Each cat has its own scratching preference. I'd try an inexpensive cardboard one first as these are usually cheaper. I've also had good experience with sisal and less with carpeted.
10. A cat bed. Again, don't go whole hog on this. I've had mixed success with what my cats are willing to sleep on and have spent more than I care to admit on pet beds only to have them prefer the floor or an old shirt.
11. Catnip. A sprinkling of catnip can help direct your new pet to their new bedding as well as being a nice treat for them in general.
12. Pet stain remover for carpets and a urine neutralizing solution. (I like Nature's Miracle).
13. Pet comb or brush. Grooming your pet helps with bonding as well as helping cut back on the amount of hair you find in your home and cuts back on hairballs.
14. Pet nail clippers. Obviously, this will depend on whether or not you pet currently has claws or not. I've found that the clippers shaped like manicure scissors, but with a wider,rounded opening for your pet's nail seem to be the easiest to work with. You can use human nail clippers, but these tend to squeeze your pet's nail more and cause some discomfort for your pet, making it more difficult to work with them.
15. Harness/leash. This last item is only recommended if you will be taking your pet out-of-doors. I don't recommend allowing your pet to roam freely outside even in a fenced in yard EVER. A harness is the best way to place a cat on a leash/lead.
Before you hit the store, have you picked out a vet? Sit down with your yellow pages, get recommendations from friends or ask the shelter or where ever you found your pet, who they recommend. Make an appointment to bring your pet to them. Please also note, most vets will allow you to visit and tour their office. It is very important that not only do you find a high quality vet (high quality does not always equate to high cost), but also one that YOU and your pet are comfortable with. But....my pet is already up-to-date on their shots and doesn't need to see a vet for a year, why go now? This is a terrific opportunity for you and your pet to interact with the vet and not experience the pain/stress of shots or blood tests. It is also an excellent opportunity for your vet to see your pet when it is healthy and allows your vet to baseline their health. Additionally, should something happen to your pet, it is much easier to have a vet lined up before an emergency or illness than to scramble to find one. (Side note on this: please also make sure you know where the nearest emergency vet is and have their number handy.)
So...vet visit scheduled, shopping list now in hand...go to your local Pet Supply store. Make sure while you are there that you get a bonus card if they have them because you WILL be back there.
Moving to a new home, even from a shelter, can be a stressful experience for a cat. You will want to make the introduction as calm and as friendly as possible. I'd recommend, if you've picked out a cat that you ask the shelter or where ever you've found it to hold the cat until you can prep your home first. What will you need to have in your home?
1. Litterbox, litter scoop and cat litter. Type of litterbox? I would base the size on the size of your pet and also on the space you have allotted for a litterbox. My preference is covered. As for type of litter, I would buy a small container (enough to fill the bottom of the litterbox to about 1-1 1/2" depth) to begin with and work to see what your cat prefers.
2. Food and Water Dishes. I'd recommend one food dish for dry food and another for canned. A fairly big water dish, but not huge is also a good idea. While the containers that hold several days worth of water are tempting, I'd only recommend on of those as a back-up water source. I prefer to ensure that my cat has fresh water each day.
3. Cat/kitten food. While there have been a lot of improvements to pet food over the years, I firmly believe that you get what you pay for. I've had good success with the Science Diet brand and also with Purina One and Purina Pro Plan. Iams is also a high quality brand that will give your pet the appropriate nutrition needed. I would select both dry food and canned food. These typically reflect an age range to provide the nutrition needed for the age of your pet. I would initially purchase a small bag of the dry food and a couple of different cans of wet food. Why? While most cats aren't overly finicky about the food they prefer, they can be. My cat Missy turned up her nose at Iams, as a kitten, but loved the Science Diet. Additionally, once you take your new pet in for its first vet visit, your vet will likely have a brand that they prefer.
4. Pet carrier. When I had my first cat, she would ride in the car, sitting across the back of my neck while I drove or on my lap. However,unbeknownst to me at the time, this was risky for myself, for her, for other drivers on the road and for my car. A pet loose in a vehicle can cause an accident. In the event of an accident, they could get loose from your vehicle and run into oncoming traffic. They could be thrown from a seat and be injured the same as an unsecured person. The cat could also cause injury to a person in the vehicle as could any unsecured, suddenly flying object (mind you, a flying object WITH claws and teeth - even the gentlest cat has been known to bite or claw when panicked). After almost being involved in an accident with her in the car, I resolved from that point on to keep my pets secured. Aside from safety, some cats have been known to become car sick. Trust me when I say that it is FAR easier to clean a cat carrier than the upholstery of your vehicle.
5. One or two cat toys. Don't go overboard here. Try one or two until you learn what the cat prefers.
6. Cat treats. Cats CAN be trained as I will discuss in a future blog and positive reinforcement is the best way.
7. Spray bottle. Unfortunately, some times a little non-harmful negative reinforcement could be required.
8. Cat collar. If you have a kitten, especially a young one (6-12 weeks), I HIGHLY recommend a collar with a bell on it. All cats tend to get underfoot on occasion, but more so kittens. A bell collar (while irritating at night) helps ensure you have an idea of where your new pet is. For an older cat, you might want a collar that will automatically release if it gets caught on something. When sizing a collar, you want it to be big enough to be able to slip a finger or two under it. A collar should not be tight against the pet's neck. If it is, the collar is too small.
9. Scratching post. Don't go whole hog on this. There are many varieties of scratching posts out there, some running a couple of hundred dollars. Each cat has its own scratching preference. I'd try an inexpensive cardboard one first as these are usually cheaper. I've also had good experience with sisal and less with carpeted.
10. A cat bed. Again, don't go whole hog on this. I've had mixed success with what my cats are willing to sleep on and have spent more than I care to admit on pet beds only to have them prefer the floor or an old shirt.
11. Catnip. A sprinkling of catnip can help direct your new pet to their new bedding as well as being a nice treat for them in general.
12. Pet stain remover for carpets and a urine neutralizing solution. (I like Nature's Miracle).
13. Pet comb or brush. Grooming your pet helps with bonding as well as helping cut back on the amount of hair you find in your home and cuts back on hairballs.
14. Pet nail clippers. Obviously, this will depend on whether or not you pet currently has claws or not. I've found that the clippers shaped like manicure scissors, but with a wider,rounded opening for your pet's nail seem to be the easiest to work with. You can use human nail clippers, but these tend to squeeze your pet's nail more and cause some discomfort for your pet, making it more difficult to work with them.
15. Harness/leash. This last item is only recommended if you will be taking your pet out-of-doors. I don't recommend allowing your pet to roam freely outside even in a fenced in yard EVER. A harness is the best way to place a cat on a leash/lead.
Before you hit the store, have you picked out a vet? Sit down with your yellow pages, get recommendations from friends or ask the shelter or where ever you found your pet, who they recommend. Make an appointment to bring your pet to them. Please also note, most vets will allow you to visit and tour their office. It is very important that not only do you find a high quality vet (high quality does not always equate to high cost), but also one that YOU and your pet are comfortable with. But....my pet is already up-to-date on their shots and doesn't need to see a vet for a year, why go now? This is a terrific opportunity for you and your pet to interact with the vet and not experience the pain/stress of shots or blood tests. It is also an excellent opportunity for your vet to see your pet when it is healthy and allows your vet to baseline their health. Additionally, should something happen to your pet, it is much easier to have a vet lined up before an emergency or illness than to scramble to find one. (Side note on this: please also make sure you know where the nearest emergency vet is and have their number handy.)
So...vet visit scheduled, shopping list now in hand...go to your local Pet Supply store. Make sure while you are there that you get a bonus card if they have them because you WILL be back there.
So, You've Decided On A Cat. Now, Which One?
Cats, like us, have varying personalities. Some are wild and crazy. Some are lovers. Some are talkative. Some are very shy except with those they know and trust. Unfortunately, some are also down right mean. Again, you need to look at your lifestyle and your own personality to find the one that is right for you.
PLEASE. Don't just go and grab the first cat that looks pretty or meows at you. It's a temptation, but not always a good one. Most shelters or pet shops (and I recommend you research the pet shop thoroughly to find out where they get their pets before giving them money for one) have rooms where you can take a pet and spend a little bit of time with them. This lets you get a bit of an idea about how well you like the cat and the cat likes you. Spend some time with them - more than 5 minutes. You would not pick a mate after knowing them for 5 minutes and expect a successful relationship. If you've had cats before, remember, just because Felix looks like your old cat Tigger, doesn't mean he will be.
Male or Female? There are mixed opinions on which gender is better. I've had success with each. Some say males are more affectionate. Some say females are gentler. Some say males bite more. Some say males spray more and are more territorial. Some say females are more affectionate and more nurturing. Honestly, I think they are all opinions since I've seen and heard of many exceptions to these stereo-types. I had a female that ruled the roost. My male doesn't spray (and I will write more about spraying and litterbox use in a later blog). Each cat I had would nip when over stimulated or petted roughly. None of these bites ever broke the skin, but some still caused bruises. I think it again goes back to simply getting to know a cat before you adopt it.
Breed? I've never owned a purebred cat. I can tell you that a purebred Persian will require more work. They need groomed regularly to keep mats from developing in their fur and to prevent hairballs. Because of their pushed in faces, they are more likely to have respiratory problems. Maine Coones are said to be very affectionate, very talkative cats. They are usually larger in size than your average cat. Siamese and Abyssinians tend to be more active and Siamese tend to be VERY vocal.
I've had excellent experiences with your standard American short-hair, mixed breeds. They tend to be known by their markings. I will say that over time, I have developed suspicions about personalities tied to these markings. As I volunteer at my local shelter, I will be doing some research to see if my theories prove true. But, I will share them here. Tuxedos - these are typically black with white underbellies and paws (like a tuxedo) - these cats tend to be more outgoing and like to control their habitat. They are fun, affectionate, playful cats. Fair warning, the one I had was called Mischief and I think that may be true of most tuxedos. Tortoise shells - their markings are mottled browns, blacks, tans and sometimes grays. These seem to be affectionate, but more shy cats. They may hide under a bed when company comes over, but be near you, loving and purring when their home is not disrupted by guests. Tabbies/Tiger-striped - again typically affectionate, but more likely to want that affection on their own terms not necessarily yours or anyone else's. These are all theories and I'd love feedback if your experiences support or contradict them. There are also always exceptions.
Purebred or mixed breed. If you select a purebred cat, please go through a reputable breeder. However, you will typically be assigned a kitten based on your gender preference as opposed to being able to select the specific kitten you want. When working with a breeder, it is important to see the breeding pair if possible and get to know about their personalities as many times the kittens will mirror their personalities to an extent. It is also important to ask about genetic disorders common to the blood line or breed. As always, do your research. Don't be afraid to question the breeder. If you've chosen a purebred cat, you are spending quite a bit of money. Also be aware that the kittens can be classified as pet quality vs. show quality. You will pay more for show quality as these meet criteria for that breed and can be shown at cat shows. If you aren't planning on going the show route, pet quality should be sufficient (and slightly cheaper).
Personally, I think the mixed breeds make wonderful pets. They can be found at your local shelter, typically are already spayed/neutered and have at least their first series of vaccinations. The adoption cost is less than these services would typically be.
Cat or kitten? Again, it depends on you and your lifestyle. A kitten has not fully developed its personality yet in most cases. They will be very active, almost hyper-active in some cases. They will find a way to get into trouble. You, as their owner, will play a LARGE part in the final formation of their personality. A cat, especially over three years is beginning to settle. Its personality is formed. Basically, what you see is what you get. I'll write more about the training, care and ownership of each later.
My key point here again is do your research, spend some time with the cat you think you want - get to know them, let them get to know you. I don't believe you will regret a carefully thought out decision, but I do believe you could come to regret an impulse adoption/purchase.
PLEASE. Don't just go and grab the first cat that looks pretty or meows at you. It's a temptation, but not always a good one. Most shelters or pet shops (and I recommend you research the pet shop thoroughly to find out where they get their pets before giving them money for one) have rooms where you can take a pet and spend a little bit of time with them. This lets you get a bit of an idea about how well you like the cat and the cat likes you. Spend some time with them - more than 5 minutes. You would not pick a mate after knowing them for 5 minutes and expect a successful relationship. If you've had cats before, remember, just because Felix looks like your old cat Tigger, doesn't mean he will be.
Male or Female? There are mixed opinions on which gender is better. I've had success with each. Some say males are more affectionate. Some say females are gentler. Some say males bite more. Some say males spray more and are more territorial. Some say females are more affectionate and more nurturing. Honestly, I think they are all opinions since I've seen and heard of many exceptions to these stereo-types. I had a female that ruled the roost. My male doesn't spray (and I will write more about spraying and litterbox use in a later blog). Each cat I had would nip when over stimulated or petted roughly. None of these bites ever broke the skin, but some still caused bruises. I think it again goes back to simply getting to know a cat before you adopt it.
Breed? I've never owned a purebred cat. I can tell you that a purebred Persian will require more work. They need groomed regularly to keep mats from developing in their fur and to prevent hairballs. Because of their pushed in faces, they are more likely to have respiratory problems. Maine Coones are said to be very affectionate, very talkative cats. They are usually larger in size than your average cat. Siamese and Abyssinians tend to be more active and Siamese tend to be VERY vocal.
I've had excellent experiences with your standard American short-hair, mixed breeds. They tend to be known by their markings. I will say that over time, I have developed suspicions about personalities tied to these markings. As I volunteer at my local shelter, I will be doing some research to see if my theories prove true. But, I will share them here. Tuxedos - these are typically black with white underbellies and paws (like a tuxedo) - these cats tend to be more outgoing and like to control their habitat. They are fun, affectionate, playful cats. Fair warning, the one I had was called Mischief and I think that may be true of most tuxedos. Tortoise shells - their markings are mottled browns, blacks, tans and sometimes grays. These seem to be affectionate, but more shy cats. They may hide under a bed when company comes over, but be near you, loving and purring when their home is not disrupted by guests. Tabbies/Tiger-striped - again typically affectionate, but more likely to want that affection on their own terms not necessarily yours or anyone else's. These are all theories and I'd love feedback if your experiences support or contradict them. There are also always exceptions.
Purebred or mixed breed. If you select a purebred cat, please go through a reputable breeder. However, you will typically be assigned a kitten based on your gender preference as opposed to being able to select the specific kitten you want. When working with a breeder, it is important to see the breeding pair if possible and get to know about their personalities as many times the kittens will mirror their personalities to an extent. It is also important to ask about genetic disorders common to the blood line or breed. As always, do your research. Don't be afraid to question the breeder. If you've chosen a purebred cat, you are spending quite a bit of money. Also be aware that the kittens can be classified as pet quality vs. show quality. You will pay more for show quality as these meet criteria for that breed and can be shown at cat shows. If you aren't planning on going the show route, pet quality should be sufficient (and slightly cheaper).
Personally, I think the mixed breeds make wonderful pets. They can be found at your local shelter, typically are already spayed/neutered and have at least their first series of vaccinations. The adoption cost is less than these services would typically be.
Cat or kitten? Again, it depends on you and your lifestyle. A kitten has not fully developed its personality yet in most cases. They will be very active, almost hyper-active in some cases. They will find a way to get into trouble. You, as their owner, will play a LARGE part in the final formation of their personality. A cat, especially over three years is beginning to settle. Its personality is formed. Basically, what you see is what you get. I'll write more about the training, care and ownership of each later.
My key point here again is do your research, spend some time with the cat you think you want - get to know them, let them get to know you. I don't believe you will regret a carefully thought out decision, but I do believe you could come to regret an impulse adoption/purchase.
Cat or Dog?
Personally, I love both cats and dogs. However, while I was single, my schedule and housing was such that it would not accommodate life with a dog...not if I wanted to be fair to the dog. For me, cats are an easier, more flexible pet. I am not saying they are not work. They are. But, you can be late getting home from work with a cat. Or, you could go out after work with a cat. If you have a dog, they need you to be consistent or have a back up to care for them when you are running late.
So, the choice between a cat or a dog, really has to do with lifestyle. Like I mentioned in my previous blog, if you are a couch potato, you probably are better off with a cat or a small dog. If you are into exercise, have the space and can either be home at regular hours or have someone who can be there in your absence a larger dog may be your thing.
Just as you should think about whether or not to even get a pet, the choice of what type of pet requires as much thought and as much research. If you decide your life is right for a dog, research the breeds you are interested in. You will find that they each have strengths and weaknesses which better suit them for specific lifestyles, personalities and tastes.
Even with cats, some breed research can't hurt. Long haired breed require more work because regular brushing will help keep their hairballs to a minimum. Some breeds are more adventurous and active and might not be the lap cat you are looking for. Some breeds are very vocal, if you like quiet, this might not be the one for you.
Research and think about your decision. Talk to people that own or have owned a breed you are interested in previously. Torn between a few breeds? An adopted mixed breed from your local shelter could be your perfect pet. :-)
So, the choice between a cat or a dog, really has to do with lifestyle. Like I mentioned in my previous blog, if you are a couch potato, you probably are better off with a cat or a small dog. If you are into exercise, have the space and can either be home at regular hours or have someone who can be there in your absence a larger dog may be your thing.
Just as you should think about whether or not to even get a pet, the choice of what type of pet requires as much thought and as much research. If you decide your life is right for a dog, research the breeds you are interested in. You will find that they each have strengths and weaknesses which better suit them for specific lifestyles, personalities and tastes.
Even with cats, some breed research can't hurt. Long haired breed require more work because regular brushing will help keep their hairballs to a minimum. Some breeds are more adventurous and active and might not be the lap cat you are looking for. Some breeds are very vocal, if you like quiet, this might not be the one for you.
Research and think about your decision. Talk to people that own or have owned a breed you are interested in previously. Torn between a few breeds? An adopted mixed breed from your local shelter could be your perfect pet. :-)
Should I Get A Pet?
This is a question that too few people ask themselves before bringing an animal into their home. I know I didn't. I also know that I got lucky.
As with the adoption of ANY pet, this requires thought, research and patience. There are a lot of questions you should ask yourself before becoming a first time pet owner.
1. Why do I want a pet?
2. Do I have the time to devote to the pet?
3. Do I have the money to devote to the pet?
4. What pet best suits my lifestyle?
5. Do I or any family member, friend or roommate have allergies?
6. Do I have a back-up care-giver for the pet should I need one?
7. How particular am I about disruption in my life, messes and routine changes?
8. Am I willing to do what is best for the pet?
9. Does where I live allow pets and is it the right size for the pet I want?
10. Are you ready to commit to a pet and all it entails?
So, you ask yourself these questions. Think about your answers. Research your answers. Talk to people you know that own pets, especially the type of pet you are thinking about adopting.
1. People get pets for a variety of reasons. The puppy or kitten was cute. The dog looked at me with such sad eyes I had to get it. I didn't want to come home to an empty house. Really think about the reason you want to get a pet. Is it because you love animals, you've done your research and you really want that companionship? Cool! What it should not be is a spur of the moment decision made because the puppy, kitten, dog or cat was cute, pretty, friendly...
2. Pets need attention. Plain and simple. A pet lacking in attention is liable to develop behavioral problems. Puppies tend to need the most time and attention followed by younger kittens, then dogs and finally cats. If you are a workaholic or have an active social life, consider getting a gold fish.
3. Pets are expensive. It's not simply about food and water. They need annual exams, vaccinations, sometimes emergency care (even when you are doing everything right), leashes, collars, tags, fencing (real or invisible), pest control, spaying/neutering, toys, carriers/crates, grooming, pet care services/boarding, pet insurance, licensing (depending on the pet and your state's regulations), training, treats, litter, litter box, pet beds and so on. Your landlord may charge more if you have a pet. Your homeowner's/renter's liability insurance may be greater depending on the type of pet. If you can only afford the food and water, you may want to reconsider. Be aware that many states require annual vaccinations for not only dogs, but also cats.
4. How much time are you away from home? Is it in small blocks or large blocks of time? How active are you? Do you like to take walks? Are you a couch potato? All of these things need to be considered when getting a pet. Puppies need you to have smaller chunks of time away from home as do young kittens. Dogs, older kittens and cats can be alone for longer periods of time. All dogs/puppies need exercise, but larger dogs tend to need a bigger commitment to exercise and stimulation. Cats and kittens can be easily entertained from your perch on the couch, but they do need some sort of stimulation and companionship each day. If you are gone for 14 or more hours each day and live alone, you may seriously want to consider that your lifestyle may not be fair for a pet. It's definitely not fair for a dog and bordering on unfair to a cat unless you have more than one cat so they have companionship and stimulation during the day, but then...aren't you getting a pet for your pet and not really contributing to the overall human/pet relationship? Expect them to bond to each other and not you in that situation.
5. Allergies are often a reason pets are surrendered. If you or someone living with you or someone that spends a lot of time with you has allergies, carefully consider the impact of a pet and research breeds that cause less of an issue for those with allergies.
6. A back-up caregiver needs to be someone that is reliable. It's something many don't think about when they get a pet, but what if you need to travel suddenly for any reason, need to go into the hospital for an extended stay, have to stay late at work one evening. It's important to make sure that someone can provide care for your pet (even if it is just checking their food and water dish) on short notice. If you don't have anyone like this, research services in your area and what they charge and revisit your finances before making a decision about a pet.
7. A pet is a step below a child most times as far as disruption in your life, messes and a change of routine. Typically, a dog is closer to having a child because they cannot be left for longer stretches of time and they need training, entertainment and attention similar to a child. Cats while they may cause less of a disruption in your life, they still can cause it with messes, fur and a change to your routine. If you like your life just so, maybe you should seriously think about waiting to get a pet until you are more easily able to deal with the unexpected.
8. Being a pet owner comes with many rewards, but it also comes with some downsides. Are you willing to go out in the cold/rain to walk your pet? Are you willing to get up in the middle of the night with your pet because they are feeling lonely, scared or sick? Are you willing to make the decision to let your pet go if they are too sick for their sake despite the fact you love them and want to keep them around forever?
9. Let's face it, if you live in a studio apartment or a cottage home with a postage stamp sized yard, a Great Dane is NOT the choice for you. A pet needs rooms just as you do. Think about this before you consider what kind of pet you want. If you rent, does your landlord even allow pets? Do you rent and move from year-to-years? If so, realize that it is often more difficult and more expensive to find a rental with pets than without. If you rent, research what your landlord allows and what additional fees/deposits they charge BEFORE you get a pet. If you own a home, is your yard fenced in? Are you will to spend what it would take for either a real fence or an invisible fence? If not, a dog may not be the right pet for you.
10. Yes. I said COMMIT! Pets are a commitment and while it doesn't require a lawyer to nullify a relationship with a pet, it does come with consequences. So PLEASE think carefully about your decision! Dogs can live anywhere from 10 to 15+ years. Cats can live as long and many times longer. It is not unusual to hear of a cat in its 20's. If you aren't sure, most goldfish only live for a few weeks/months (although, some of them have been said to live much longer). Give the goldfish a trial run and if it works out, move on to a hamster or a rat. Know that surrendering a pet to a shelter costs you money, not every shelter has room due to the economy these days and not every shelter is a no-kill shelter so you might be giving your pet a death sentence. Not to mention, if you've totally abidicated of your ownership responsibilities and created a dog or a cat with behavioral problems, you've made it that much more difficult for them to find a new home. If the dog or cat is totally anti-social, bites or scratches, you again, even in a no-kill shelter have given your pet a death sentence. And, YES, I said RESPONSIBILITY. :-) Pets are WORK! There is tremendous benefit from the relationship, but they are a responsibility and they are work. They require a commitment from you that you will care for them, love them, treat them well and deal with them with good graces when they mess up (and they will, especially if you have not been consistent in their training). A pet relies on you.
So....now after looking over the questions and thinking about them, researching the answers to these questions...are you ready to get a pet or do you need to wait a while and consider? After researching, do you know what kind of pet will be right for you and your lifestyle? But, WAIT! Before you rush out and get a pet, stop by your local shelter and talk to the staff/volunteers there. They can help give you direction on the type of pet that is best for you and act as a sanity check on your own answers. They might, after talking to you, even have a pet that matches you and your personality. They might, after hearing about your lifestyle or other factors in your life, recommend that you wait to get a pet or recommend a pet different than what you thought you wanted. Trust me. The staff/volunteers at most shelters are dedicated to doing what is right for the animals in their care. Don't want to stop by a shelter, afraid you will be drawn in by a pair of brown, blue, yellow or green eyes before you are ready? Talk to your local vet, groomer, trainer or pet care professional, they can help too.
As with the adoption of ANY pet, this requires thought, research and patience. There are a lot of questions you should ask yourself before becoming a first time pet owner.
1. Why do I want a pet?
2. Do I have the time to devote to the pet?
3. Do I have the money to devote to the pet?
4. What pet best suits my lifestyle?
5. Do I or any family member, friend or roommate have allergies?
6. Do I have a back-up care-giver for the pet should I need one?
7. How particular am I about disruption in my life, messes and routine changes?
8. Am I willing to do what is best for the pet?
9. Does where I live allow pets and is it the right size for the pet I want?
10. Are you ready to commit to a pet and all it entails?
So, you ask yourself these questions. Think about your answers. Research your answers. Talk to people you know that own pets, especially the type of pet you are thinking about adopting.
1. People get pets for a variety of reasons. The puppy or kitten was cute. The dog looked at me with such sad eyes I had to get it. I didn't want to come home to an empty house. Really think about the reason you want to get a pet. Is it because you love animals, you've done your research and you really want that companionship? Cool! What it should not be is a spur of the moment decision made because the puppy, kitten, dog or cat was cute, pretty, friendly...
2. Pets need attention. Plain and simple. A pet lacking in attention is liable to develop behavioral problems. Puppies tend to need the most time and attention followed by younger kittens, then dogs and finally cats. If you are a workaholic or have an active social life, consider getting a gold fish.
3. Pets are expensive. It's not simply about food and water. They need annual exams, vaccinations, sometimes emergency care (even when you are doing everything right), leashes, collars, tags, fencing (real or invisible), pest control, spaying/neutering, toys, carriers/crates, grooming, pet care services/boarding, pet insurance, licensing (depending on the pet and your state's regulations), training, treats, litter, litter box, pet beds and so on. Your landlord may charge more if you have a pet. Your homeowner's/renter's liability insurance may be greater depending on the type of pet. If you can only afford the food and water, you may want to reconsider. Be aware that many states require annual vaccinations for not only dogs, but also cats.
4. How much time are you away from home? Is it in small blocks or large blocks of time? How active are you? Do you like to take walks? Are you a couch potato? All of these things need to be considered when getting a pet. Puppies need you to have smaller chunks of time away from home as do young kittens. Dogs, older kittens and cats can be alone for longer periods of time. All dogs/puppies need exercise, but larger dogs tend to need a bigger commitment to exercise and stimulation. Cats and kittens can be easily entertained from your perch on the couch, but they do need some sort of stimulation and companionship each day. If you are gone for 14 or more hours each day and live alone, you may seriously want to consider that your lifestyle may not be fair for a pet. It's definitely not fair for a dog and bordering on unfair to a cat unless you have more than one cat so they have companionship and stimulation during the day, but then...aren't you getting a pet for your pet and not really contributing to the overall human/pet relationship? Expect them to bond to each other and not you in that situation.
5. Allergies are often a reason pets are surrendered. If you or someone living with you or someone that spends a lot of time with you has allergies, carefully consider the impact of a pet and research breeds that cause less of an issue for those with allergies.
6. A back-up caregiver needs to be someone that is reliable. It's something many don't think about when they get a pet, but what if you need to travel suddenly for any reason, need to go into the hospital for an extended stay, have to stay late at work one evening. It's important to make sure that someone can provide care for your pet (even if it is just checking their food and water dish) on short notice. If you don't have anyone like this, research services in your area and what they charge and revisit your finances before making a decision about a pet.
7. A pet is a step below a child most times as far as disruption in your life, messes and a change of routine. Typically, a dog is closer to having a child because they cannot be left for longer stretches of time and they need training, entertainment and attention similar to a child. Cats while they may cause less of a disruption in your life, they still can cause it with messes, fur and a change to your routine. If you like your life just so, maybe you should seriously think about waiting to get a pet until you are more easily able to deal with the unexpected.
8. Being a pet owner comes with many rewards, but it also comes with some downsides. Are you willing to go out in the cold/rain to walk your pet? Are you willing to get up in the middle of the night with your pet because they are feeling lonely, scared or sick? Are you willing to make the decision to let your pet go if they are too sick for their sake despite the fact you love them and want to keep them around forever?
9. Let's face it, if you live in a studio apartment or a cottage home with a postage stamp sized yard, a Great Dane is NOT the choice for you. A pet needs rooms just as you do. Think about this before you consider what kind of pet you want. If you rent, does your landlord even allow pets? Do you rent and move from year-to-years? If so, realize that it is often more difficult and more expensive to find a rental with pets than without. If you rent, research what your landlord allows and what additional fees/deposits they charge BEFORE you get a pet. If you own a home, is your yard fenced in? Are you will to spend what it would take for either a real fence or an invisible fence? If not, a dog may not be the right pet for you.
10. Yes. I said COMMIT! Pets are a commitment and while it doesn't require a lawyer to nullify a relationship with a pet, it does come with consequences. So PLEASE think carefully about your decision! Dogs can live anywhere from 10 to 15+ years. Cats can live as long and many times longer. It is not unusual to hear of a cat in its 20's. If you aren't sure, most goldfish only live for a few weeks/months (although, some of them have been said to live much longer). Give the goldfish a trial run and if it works out, move on to a hamster or a rat. Know that surrendering a pet to a shelter costs you money, not every shelter has room due to the economy these days and not every shelter is a no-kill shelter so you might be giving your pet a death sentence. Not to mention, if you've totally abidicated of your ownership responsibilities and created a dog or a cat with behavioral problems, you've made it that much more difficult for them to find a new home. If the dog or cat is totally anti-social, bites or scratches, you again, even in a no-kill shelter have given your pet a death sentence. And, YES, I said RESPONSIBILITY. :-) Pets are WORK! There is tremendous benefit from the relationship, but they are a responsibility and they are work. They require a commitment from you that you will care for them, love them, treat them well and deal with them with good graces when they mess up (and they will, especially if you have not been consistent in their training). A pet relies on you.
So....now after looking over the questions and thinking about them, researching the answers to these questions...are you ready to get a pet or do you need to wait a while and consider? After researching, do you know what kind of pet will be right for you and your lifestyle? But, WAIT! Before you rush out and get a pet, stop by your local shelter and talk to the staff/volunteers there. They can help give you direction on the type of pet that is best for you and act as a sanity check on your own answers. They might, after talking to you, even have a pet that matches you and your personality. They might, after hearing about your lifestyle or other factors in your life, recommend that you wait to get a pet or recommend a pet different than what you thought you wanted. Trust me. The staff/volunteers at most shelters are dedicated to doing what is right for the animals in their care. Don't want to stop by a shelter, afraid you will be drawn in by a pair of brown, blue, yellow or green eyes before you are ready? Talk to your local vet, groomer, trainer or pet care professional, they can help too.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Missy
Missy has been gone for five years now. I still miss her horribly. She was my first grown up pet. She was perhaps the perfect cat for me. To this day, I feel like she picked me instead of the other way around. When Jack (my ex-husband) and I moved into an apartment that allowed pets in 1990, he took me to find a cat for my birthday. I saw this cute black and white kitten and asked the attendant if I could see her. The attendant pulled her out and handed her to me. This small bundle of black and white curled up right under my chin and immediately started purring. It was clear that we were a match made in heaven. I did not look at another cat or kitten. My decision (and apparently hers) was made.
She came home with us that night. She was so tiny and scrawny. I wasn't sure what to name her. I started off by thinking 'Marilyn' because of the beauty mark in white by her mouth. I called my mother to let her know about her new 'granddaughter'. (She hated when my brother and I called her to inform her she is or is going to be a grandmother and it was to an animal. We each got her at least once with that. It didn't help that this was at a time when she was hoping for 'REAL' grandchildren.) When I expressed concern over what to name her, Mom said, 'Don't worry. She will tell you what her name is.' Wise, wise words!
As I talked to Mom, I followed my new feline around the house as she explored her new home. She got into EVERYTHING! I commented to Mom, 'Lord, she is FULL of Mischief!' Mom said, 'That's her name! You can call her Missy for short.' She was so right! Mischief she became and Mischief she definitely was.
She took to sleeping across the back of my neck the first night she lived with me. This eventually was discouraged when she reached a certain weight, but when my hair was long enough, she would curl up next to my head at night and purr and knead in my hair. It often lulled both of us into a sweet, peaceful sleep.
I remember the first time I ever clipped her claws. I had chosen not to have her declawed and so needed to perform that function to protect myself, others, my furniture and eventually the dog. She meowed like I was killing her. I was shaking and crying. But, we got through it. Eventually, I could do it with little complaint from her, in fact, she would often just sit and purr as I clipped, knowing she'd get a treat immediately afterward.
At her first vet visit, the vet told me that tuxedos were a breed to themselves and very unique, special cats. I didn't even know she was a tuxedo (named for the coloring pattern which looks like a tuxedo). He said he owned one and it was probably the most enjoyable cat he had. She certainly was that! She had a respiratory infection and he prescribed liquid amoxicillin for her. She took it well. She seemed to like the taste and would hold onto the dropper,with her front paws, as I administered it.
She learned to jump from the floor into my arms. This was a cute trick, but one I had to be wary of because sometimes she did it when I wasn't expecting it. I learned to recognize the look she would get on her face before she'd jump. Usually, I was the only one she'd do this with, but she did it to a friend once. Luckily, this friend knew of Missy's habit and caught her when she did. From a person's arms, she would work her way up onto their shoulders. She frequently rode around on Jack's shoulders until she started biting him on the head. (Once she started that, he no longer allowed her to ride on his shoulders.) He was the only person she ever did this to. I can only assume that this was her expression of her feelings toward him or maybe her reflection of my own.
She hated when I would yell at anyone or anything. If I yelled, she would jump on my back. I probably still have a few scars from that. If I cried, she would immediately be there with her nose pressed against my face, as if to say 'Are you OK?' When I got Indy and then subsequently Trystan and Fannie, she was the cat that ruled the roost.
She was always out to greet any guests to my home. I learned to trust her opinion of my visitors. There was only one time that she refused to come near a guest. That guest was never invited back. I believe animals sense things we cannot. For her to be so accepting of so many and suddenly not of this person, I took to be an indicator that I should not be either.
The first sign that she was ill was when I sat down to eat something and she sat near me, but didn't try to steal any food. I handed her some and she still showed no interest. This prompted a trip to the vet and I was given some medication for her. This didn't help. So, back to the vet. This time, they did an xray. Her kidneys were enlarged. My vet recommended a local practice that specialized in cancer and other pet maladies. They confirmed she had lymphoma. I agreed to try the chemo treatments provided she handled them well and they did not overly impact her quality of life. She did well at accepting the daily pills I had to give her and was easy for the veterinary staff to handle. They always commented that she didn't look ill. Her coat retained it shine. She remained active and seemed happy. However, she stopped eating again after about three treatments. She was dehydrated and it appeared her kidneys were failing. On New Year's Eve 2005, I made the decision to let her go. She was about 15 at the time. I held her in my lap as they performed the procedure and cried my heart out. I miss her so very much. She was truly a special cat.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Cats Past, Present and Future
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