I'm a first-time prospective cat owner and need suggestions for a breed

Hi there!! Welcome to TCS

I'm going to ask a moderator to move this thread to the Breeders' Corner forum. Chances are you'll get a better response there.

Oh, and I'm not a breeder, but from just skimming your list of traits, I'd look at a British Shorthair if I were you.

It might also help if you divide those traits into "Must have" and "would be nice to have."

Hello and welcome. I am not an expert, but from your list I would say you will not find a live cat who answers all your needs. Rather than try to select a breed ( and within a breed individual cats may vary greatly), go to a shelter and get to know the cats there, observe them and choose one who has the temperament you want. You certainly do not want a kitten as it would be climb and play, be vocal and demand a lot of attention. But you might find an older cat who could be the ideal companion, quiet and docile and who would love you forever for providing a home.

Yes, an older cat would also be my suggestion. This way you know better what you get... And older do behave more or less as you describe, in most breeds, even the relatively lively russian blue.   :)

 

You are also talking about costs.  The easiest way to find a "cheap" pure bred is to find an older cat who needs a new home.

 

If it is important for you to find a pure bred, so there are many ways. Most clubs do have a section for grown up cats who need a new home. Same with breeds rings...  There are even shelters who specialize on pure breds...

 

If pure bred is not essential for you, but you are entirely happy with a "moggie" as long as it correspondents to your ideals - contact good shelters around where you live...

 

Most cats prefer to have another cat to be friend with and live with. so consider taking two, esp as you do foresee the necessity to leave them alone the whole day or a whole night.

Having friendly company, they wont mind to be alone even a whole day.

 

 

Welcome to our site,

 

Good luck!

 

I'm sort of wondering what you DO want a cat to do, with all those don'ts! So why is it you're wanting to get a cat? Which ones on that list are non-negotiable, and which ones are just preferences? As far as I can tell, only a stuffed cat would meet all of those requirements.

But definitely not a kitten. All kittens are extremely troublesome. An older cat, around 10 years old or so, might fit most of those requirements, depending on the individual cat. If you're set on a purebred, a breeder may have a retired show cat or one who was returned by the buyer. Otherwise, check shelters or craigslist. . .a lot of old cats are given up and it's really very sad for them to lose the home they've known for so long, but they are usually settled down by that age.

Cats are cats. Most are not purebred and have no purebreds in their ancestry (unlike dogs). Just. . .cats. we call them domestic shorthairs or domestic longhairs. There's a lot of variability in looks and temperment, it really depends on the individual cat. But people selectively breed certain types of cats and over the years they have become purebreds. Siamese, Persians, Maine Coons, etc. It means they breed true to a certain look, and to some extent personality/temperment (but this is more variable than in dogs). There is less diversity in cats than in dogs (with dogs you have terriers, hounds, retrievers, all very different from each other, big dogs, small dogs, etc. but all cats are about the same size and share a similar cat-ness).

Anyway, you can teach a cat to stay off your desk when you're there, but it's hard to train any animal to do something when you aren't there. No cats are "ground-dwelling", but an older cat may have arthritis and not be able to jump very well. With any cat, if you get them a cat tree you can teach them to go on that instead of your desk. But they do like to be up high.

Shedding is kind of iffy. If you feed a high-quality diet and groom the cat as needed, shedding should be kept to a minimum. But there are no non-shedding cats (except Sphynx! LOL. And rexes don't shed much. But they're too demanding for your preferences). 2 cats of the same breed from the same litter can shed different amounts. If you clean the area often it shouldn't be too bad.

A mature rescue cat or cats would be best in my view.  You can visit the rescue, see the cats, get to know them, find out which ones will suit you best.  It will also let you find out about cats in general before commiting yourself.

 

However almost all cats like to be on high places.  Mine have a big scratching post that overlooks the back garden, and my old cat that is no longer with me used to adore sitting on top of it looking out.

 

Moggies tend to have fewer health problems than pedigrees as well, another reason for getting one.

 

However it does sound to me like you want a cat that's there when you want it and doesn't bother you the rest of the time...  Cats are not like that.  They are independant and do what they want, when they want.  And they aren't easy to train.  Indeed, do you train them or do they train you? 

Your list is nearly next to impossible... It's like wishing for the perfect mate, it never happens but we still make a list until we realize it's never going to happen and throw it out.  Or wishes you have for your kids growing up... Again, the list doesn't matter because it's their lives and what they want may not be what you want... So why do you want a cat again?  Your list is very extreme... May I recommend a stuffed cat?  Seriously, though I am not trying to be mean but people pick out animals, especially for the first time with unrealistic expectations and boundaries.  I suggest you maybe spend some time with animals first before you decide to get one.  Maybe ask a friend or neighbor to bring theirs over and let you keep it for the weekend or a week.  See how you do.  This will help you gain a realistic perspective.  The last thing you want to do, and too often people do all the time, is get in over your head.  Go pick up a cat and bring it home and it isn't what you thought it would be so you start resenting it.  Having a pet is a lifetime commitment not just a cute luxury.  Seriously consider this before jumping into it please.  While it's great to rescue too many animals are turned back in because people had expectations like yours and became frustrated because the animal did not conform to these. 

 

Yes, moggy is slang for domestic. Shorthair or longhair.  

(Longhair cats are btw often calmer then shorthair, but you dont want trouble with hairs....)

 

Yes, this is the by far most common "sort" of cats.    :)

Only exception is at shows etc... Almost all cats at shows are pure breed pedigree cats.    :)

 

It sounds a good idea for you, but I don't think it's a good idea for the cat.  Shelter cats have often been through a lot already, and coming and going to various houses won't help.  It's also a risk for spreading infections.  spend some time at the shelter, talk to the people about what you are looking for, let them guide you.

 

One thing to consider could be a retired breeding stud or queen if you want a purebred cat. Their temperament would be already known and they are cheaper than kittens and young cats (if talking about a pedigreed cat). But definitely an adult cat would be my recommendation too, two if possible so they can keep each other company and leave your stuff mostly alone (usually..).

 

The list is quite imbossible, but as someone already mentioned British Shorthairs would probably be closest breed to match that, except that they might shed twice a year depending on where you live (if the temperatures vary a lot like here in the north) and most are not lap cats, they prefer to be next to you. Another breeds that could fit might be Scottish Fold and Exotic (shorthair version of Persian).

I totally agree, sounds like the cat for Punchy 71 is no cat? I suggest any older cat up for adoption.I have a Manx I adopted and spent quite a bit of time training her not to be destructive, her litter box is in the garage accesable by kitty door from the house, that makes life much easier! hope you end up with a great cat
 

 

The thing about an older cat is, it's still a cat.  Many (most in fact) are prone to jumping and love to be up high.  It may be more laid back but more than a few "requirements" on this list are not realistic at all.  That is why I suggested a friend or neighbor bringing over their cat for the weekend, so you could get a feel for it and decide if it's something you really want.  If you went to a breeder, the responsible ones would turn you and your list away.  A byb wouldn't care, they'd just want the money.  If you went to a rescue or shelter, most of them would just laugh at your list...But they'd probably send you home with a kitty anyway... That's what scares me about this.  You need to really be sure it's something you can handle when you realize how unrealistic your list is and it's something you want anyway. 

 

I know a lot of shelters might consider a temporary or trial basis.  You would need to talk to them.  But, I know they would want the cat to be happy and you  too... So ask them about it.  However, like someone already pointed out, shelter and rescue cats have been through enough.  I would suggest friends or neighbors first. 

Yeah, I don't see how you're going to get around your number one requirement unless the cat is crippled in some way.
 

 

In US there is the Munchkin cat, with extra short legs.  Or older cat from a calm breed as said before...
 

 

A munchkin cat is a cat with dwarfism.  They have medical issues and they are not a good cat for a first time perspective owner.  They require someone who knows what they are doing.  True, they won't jump as much but because they are deformed and not because they just don't want to.  I don't know of a respectable breeder that actually breeds them.  You would need to go to a BYB of "designer" cats.  I highly recommend you not do so, though.  You'd be getting in way over your head. 

 

I want to break it down for you, a lot of people on here probably believe me to be mean.  Not so at all.  I am honest and straightforward.  I don't sugarcoat things.  For years, I have volunteered at the local shelters and rescues.  I can tell you if you want a purebred cat, you can just browse your local shelters... They are full of them.  Most are turned over by people with list like yours.  Just the honest truth.  They were turned in because someone got them with unrealistic expectations and boundaries and when they didn't conform or were no longer cute kittens, they were unwanted.  Most commited crimes like scratching the furniture, or jumping on counter tops, or with litter box issues.  All with a little patience, understanding, and advice could have been corrected. 

 

Before you could go to a shelter and there would be a process to adopt.  No longer.  Because they are so overrun, they are willing to do so  immediately in most cases.  Animals are given only 3 days in many cases not the used to be 2 weeks or more.  That's how bad it is!  It's very sad to see a healthy and loving animal put down because someone had unrealistic expectations and couldn't/wouldn't compromise and do right by the animal.  They know it's coming.  They cry.  They plead. They try to run. 

 

A cat is very much an animal of compromise. However, they will not bend to your will and they will not conform to some ideal you have in your head.  There are things a cat has to do because it's a cat.  You have to be willing to meet them halfway. Please be responsible and go in with eyes wide open and realistic expectations.  If you go the breeder route, you'll have to.  The responsible breeders will never hand over a kitten to someone with your lists and beliefs.  They are looking for people who know what they are getting into and are ready for it and will give their furbabies loving and wonderful FOREVER homes.   

If you want to see what living with a cat is usually like, Google 'cats have staff'.  It's true. 

 

All the cats I've ever looked after (10 I think) have had what they've asked for, usually when they ask for it.  Food, cuddles, play...  I work on the theory they walk on the worktop so I clean it before preparing food.  They can read the price tags on boxes of cat food and only want the posh stuff.  One of my current cats will help herself to a raw wing from the fridge if I leave the door open to defrost it.  I do draw the line at her 'killing' it in the house and throw it in the garden.  And since I now live near an intermittently busy road (the worst kind for outdoor cats) my garden is now cat-proof, which cost money, effort and pain.  I accidentally fired a staple into my hand!

 

Perhaps a small dog might be better - it will love you when you want, stay in the garden if you put it out and sleep on your feet when in the house. Much easier to train to stay off the furniture.

Well, Jenny Ranson,  these 4 "criteria" generally dismiss a dog... A dog cannot be left alone for long periods of time.  Dogs are generally more demanding than cats.  And dogs are usually more vocal than cats and definitely louder! 

 

Well, maybe, but it depends on the dog! And we are all agreed that it will be impossible for all the criteria to be met. Sometimes you can take a dog with you to places you can't go with a cat, so you do not need to leave it alone.

Well, if he's this picky about a cat... He's going to be really upset with a dog!!  Cats are way less dependent than dogs and in a lot of cases, easier... I love dogs, too, but my reason for not having one right now is that I can't be home to walk it and give it the attention it needs.  They often require a lot more than a cat.  Where I live you can't take a dog a lot more places than you can a cat, either.  I mean, you can't take it to work.  You can't take it to classes.  Basically it would be home all day with no one to walk it.  That would not do. 

Not sure where you are located, but a lot of humane societies and rescue groups have foster programs. That might be a way for you to "test-drive" a cat. Most rescue volunteers are pretty good at matching cats with humans also. You might visit one, explain your needs and ask them to introduce you to the cats they have they feel might be a good match. Then you can possibly take one on a foster-to-adopt basis.

IMO that's really the only workable solution to your requirements.

The only thing is, he states he has no prior experience.  Many rescues and shelters will not consider him foster material. A lot of the time, they require people whom have experience dealing not just with animals but often traumatized animals.  Usually the ones that go to a foster home have been through something traumatizing or are not handling being in a small cage well.  You can always ask, I am sure but for someone who doesn't know cats it could be kind of shaky and I'm not sure they would feel it's a good fit. 

 

What I would do if you really are set on the idea of a cat and I didn't have family or friends or neighbors with cats is I would go spend some time at the rescue shelters and play with them.  It won't be the same thing of course but you can get a general idea of the activeness of a real cat and a better feel for it.  Ask the rescue or shelter people about what it's really like to have a cat and live with them... What they need... What to expect... What you need in order to keep them happy and to keep them from potentially developing behavior problems.  People on here could talk all day long telling you how to prepare and what you need and what the cat needs.  But, it means nothing if you don't see it for yourself and talk to someone in person while you are spending time getting a feel for cats. 

Sorry Punchy71 but I think you should consider goldfish 
 

 

Hi Punchy71,

 

I had never owned a cat either, until about a year ago, when my husband and I decided to adopt a cat from our local humane society.  Mai Tai is a moggie, but she really fits the physical traits and temperament of a Ragdoll cat. 

 

Your "wish list" describes the Ragdoll cat to a tee!  They are a medium to long-haired cat, but the fur is soft and cottony, like that of a rabbit.  Although my ragdoll (mix)  does shed in the spring, it drops off like little fur bunnies on the floor and the Roomba Vac picks'm right up!  There is also a paddle shaped mitt made from natural sponge that you can get at your local pet store that works well to manually remove hair from upholstery and carpet.  They have laid back personalities, and they go limp in your arms when picked up.   Ragdolls like to play very gently (keep this in mind if you have young kids)  and they like to follow you from one room to the next.  They are not very vocal, but they have silly ways of getting your attention (they are little comedians, and they have "slapstick"mastered!)..

 

If you go through a reputable breeder, a Ragdoll can be expensive (and PLEASE do your research!!), but you could look into adopting a cat from your local ragdoll rescue organization.  The rescue kitties are out there in numbers!  You could also consider adopting a retired sire are queen from a cattery, but be prepared to offer a very patient and loving intro to your home if you decide to go this route.   If you like to profile different breeds, Animal Planet's "Cats 101" is a good source.    Most important thing when adopting a Ragdoll cat:  Always keep them indoors only!!  They lack the instinctual defense mechanism that most cats possess.  They would see a a rabid raccoon trudging toward them and think maybe this might be a good friend to try to touch noses with.  They also make easy targets to be stolen as well, as they will go up to just about anyone to say hello.  Good Luck!! Don't give up until you know it is the right match.  Also, consider that this is a very rewarding 18-20 year commitment.

Hi Punchy

 

You seem to have too many requirements to be ready to be a cat owner! Sorry but cats are individual creatures who will have their own personality and foibles despite the characteristics of the breed and you have to accept this.

Relax and go visit your local shelter..............you might fall in love with a cat who doesn't tick any of your boxes.

 

good luck

caro