Tips for the First 30 Days of Cat Adoption

Warmer weather brings kitten season, which is why The American Humane Association has designated June as Adopt-A-Cat-Month. Thousands of cats and kittens will be looking for a forever home not only for the month of June, but all year long. Start off on the right foot by being well-prepared for your furry new arrival by avoiding the rocky adjustment period and getting right down to the lovin'!

Make sure everyone in the house is prepared for a new cat. Visiting the shelter or animal control facility should be a family affair.  When adopting a new cat to join your existing pets, discuss with the adoption facility or your veterinarian how to make a proper introduction.

Spend time with a few kitties to determine which will be a good fit.  Ask to take the cat or kitten out of its cage and find an area at the shelter where you can spend some time with her.  Remember that animals in shelters can be nervous around new noises and smells so be prepared for the cat to take a little while to warm up to you.  Although, some cats are so friendly that they may begin bonding with you the moment they meet you!  Spending time petting and talking to the cat or kitten should give you insight into its personality to help you decide if it’s a good fit. 

Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives.  Try to create a “homelike” environment for your new cat right away.  You’ll need: a litter box, litter, food, treats and water bowls,  scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed, a brush for grooming, a toothbrush, and nail clippers.

Kitten-proof Your Home. Kittens can get tangled or choked by anything swinging or hanging.  Keep your new pet safe by securely anchoring drape or blind cords out of reach. To prevent chewing on electric and phone cords, bundle them with a cord manager and fasten away from kittens' reach.  Rubber bands, jewelry, Christmas decorations, balloons and other small items are dangerous to kittens that may swallow them.  Remove poisonous plants and roach or ant traps and make sure the toilet lid is down.  Keep kitchen and bathroom cabinets closed so your kitten doesn't encounter bleach, detergent, dental floss and other household items when exploring.  In the laundry area, keep washer and dryer doors closed: A kitten may climb into a warm dryer for a nap.  Remember, if something would be harmful for a toddler, it's potentially harmful for your kitten.

Do see a vet ASAP.  Kittens seem indestructible, but can get sick easily.  A vet’s early diagnosis improves the chances of a speedy recovery.  Screening tests, preventive care,  vaccinations, flea prevention and worm medications, save lives and ensure that your kitten grows to healthy adulthood.

Slowly Introduce Other Family Members.  Everyone in the family will be anxious to get to know the new cat but she may not be ready to have several unfamiliar people crowded in her sanctuary room (a room you designate as her safe zone before letting her free into the rest of the house).  Do individual introductions slowly and see how she responds.  If she’s hiding and seems nervous, back off and let her gain confidence in her new surroundings.  There will be plenty of time later to make formal introductions.

Have you recently introduced a newly adopted cat or kitten into your home? Tell us about it @fetchpetcare

Things to Consider Before Adopting a Cat

This August Fetch! Pet Care is dedicating the month to rescue cats and cat adoption. It seems only fit that our fun feline friends have the whole month to themselves! There are millions of cats in shelters waiting to find a happy home. Adopting a cat is a big responsibility but with careful planning you can do it! Here are some things to consider to determine if you’re ready to add a kitty to your family.

First, make sure your home is cat friendly. If you rent your home or apartment, the first thing you need to do is see if you are permitted to have animals in the building. Going against your lease agreement can be a big headache! If your lease agreement does not allow for pets, you might call your landlord and see if they are flexible on the issue. Also, decide if you have room for a cat. While cats need less space than dogs, they still need their own area. Decide where you would put the cat’s litter box, and have his own play area once he arrives.

The second thing to consider is the other people in your home. Talk with your family or roommates and see how they feel about having a cat. Do they have any allergies, or other concerns? Don’t forget the other animals in your family too! If you have other pets it’s important to know how they will react to having a new brother or sister. Does your pet do well around others? When other pets are involved it may be a good idea to set up a trial visit, so you can gauge how both animals will get along. Animals are very in-tune with emotions, so it’s important to make sure you will be bringing your cat into a welcoming and loving home.

The third thing to consider is if your current lifestyle permits the time and money associated with caring for a cat. Be honest: are you constantly on the go, does your other pet require all of your attention? Not all cats are the same; research different breeds to see which would best suit your lifestyle. If you’re busy, roommates and family members can be a great resource for co-parenting too!

Your cat will also come with some added monthly expenditures. Put together a basic budget of what your cat will cost you per month. Make sure to include: food, toys, possible medical expenses, and other kitty services, like a Fetch! Pet Care cat sitter who can provide daily, or cat visits and playtime exercise. Be honest about what you can afford so you are prepared and your kitty will be well cared for.

Lastly, consider where you want to get a cat from. Remember, there are way too many cats in rescue and adoption shelters who need a home. Consider these sources first and help to change a furry one’s life for the better.

If having a pet is new for you, it’s a great idea to watch a friend’s pet for a while, so you know what to expect when you have your own. Your new cat will give you tons of unconditional love, attention and laughs! All of the responsibilities are well worth it and remember Fetch! Pet Care is always here to cover your tailand has your tail covered!