Hello! I'm new here. Not actually a cat owner but my son has been begging for one for 3 years and now that he's old enough to help care for it I'm having less reasons to say no. I found this site to get advice and learn more. I've had dogs all my life but never a cat. We do have two small dogs at our house. They are both maltese, 6 & 4 pounds. They are 11 & 12 years old but still in good health. The older one loves cats and still acts like a puppy so I know she would enjoy having one at home as well. If you have any general words of advice I'd love to hear them.
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Hi!
- Thread starter cbhuehls
- Start Date
While you may think your son is old enough to care for a cat, keep in mind that as the parent, the cat will ultimately be your responsibility. Too often I see people adopting a pet to 'teach their child responsibility' and when the child loses interest in the pet, it gets dumped because the parent is unwilling to do the work.
Even if he does retain interest and helps care for your new cat, the vet bills will still be your responsibility; if the cat is still alive when he leaves for college or moves out for other reasons, you cannot expect him to take the cat with him.
It doesn't sound like you are planning any of these things, but I wanted to forewarn you, that unless you want a cat too, it may be a mistake to adopt one just for your son.
I love my kitties and my dogs equally--and they get along very well. Most cats make excellent pets, as well. I strongly recommend, because you have a child and dogs, looking for a local rescue group that fosters their animals. They would be able to suggest a cat or kitten that has been exposed to children and dogs already, or would know the personality of the cat/kitten better than many shelters would that don't have the luxury of foster homes. Some shelters do have foster programs for sick or underweight animals, but not all do.
Also to keep in mind is that while in general cats are less expensive to keep than dogs, they still require routine and sometimes emergency veterinary care, quality food, and interaction time to be healthy and happy. Make sure that you are financially prepared for a new pet and your family has the time to spend with it.
Even if he does retain interest and helps care for your new cat, the vet bills will still be your responsibility; if the cat is still alive when he leaves for college or moves out for other reasons, you cannot expect him to take the cat with him.
It doesn't sound like you are planning any of these things, but I wanted to forewarn you, that unless you want a cat too, it may be a mistake to adopt one just for your son.
I love my kitties and my dogs equally--and they get along very well. Most cats make excellent pets, as well. I strongly recommend, because you have a child and dogs, looking for a local rescue group that fosters their animals. They would be able to suggest a cat or kitten that has been exposed to children and dogs already, or would know the personality of the cat/kitten better than many shelters would that don't have the luxury of foster homes. Some shelters do have foster programs for sick or underweight animals, but not all do.
Also to keep in mind is that while in general cats are less expensive to keep than dogs, they still require routine and sometimes emergency veterinary care, quality food, and interaction time to be healthy and happy. Make sure that you are financially prepared for a new pet and your family has the time to spend with it.
@cbhuehls Welcome to TCS!
I agree that adopting a cat is a major decision and one that the parents must take full responsibility for. It is a commitment for 15-20 years and you must be prepared for it both mentally and financially. That said, cats are wonderful companions and can add so much to your family.
My advice would be to take your time with choosing the cat. Visit local shelters and rescue groups and don't just take a kitten because it's cute. I recommend going for a slightly older cat, one that's settled in its ways and which the shelter people know and can tell you about its personality. This is going to be a family member, so personality can go a very long way and cats can have very different personalities. Are you looking for an active vocal cat that needs a lot of attention? Or maybe a more sedentary feline that is content with staying alone during the day? Don't assume that your cat will be like other cats you know...
Also, take the time to read up on cat care. There is a lot to learn. Here are a few articles to get you started. There's tons more in our cat articles section, and of course, we're here for you with any questions you may have!
Where to Find a Kitten
Cats As Individuals
Cat Behavior for Beginners
Cats and Kids
Spay and Neuter Your Cats
Choosing The Right Food for Your Cat and you
Choosing The Right Litterbox
Choosing the Right Cat Litter
Making Your Home and Garden Safe For Your Cat
How to Best Take Care of Cat Claws
I agree that adopting a cat is a major decision and one that the parents must take full responsibility for. It is a commitment for 15-20 years and you must be prepared for it both mentally and financially. That said, cats are wonderful companions and can add so much to your family.
My advice would be to take your time with choosing the cat. Visit local shelters and rescue groups and don't just take a kitten because it's cute. I recommend going for a slightly older cat, one that's settled in its ways and which the shelter people know and can tell you about its personality. This is going to be a family member, so personality can go a very long way and cats can have very different personalities. Are you looking for an active vocal cat that needs a lot of attention? Or maybe a more sedentary feline that is content with staying alone during the day? Don't assume that your cat will be like other cats you know...
Also, take the time to read up on cat care. There is a lot to learn. Here are a few articles to get you started. There's tons more in our cat articles section, and of course, we're here for you with any questions you may have!
Where to Find a Kitten
Cats As Individuals
Cat Behavior for Beginners
Cats and Kids
Spay and Neuter Your Cats
Choosing The Right Food for Your Cat and you
Choosing The Right Litterbox
Choosing the Right Cat Litter
Making Your Home and Garden Safe For Your Cat
How to Best Take Care of Cat Claws
