The summer
forecast is calling for cats, cats and more cats because June is Adopt a
Shelter Cat Month! With that in mind, it's a great time to head to your local
animal shelter to bring home a new furry friend. Adopting a shelter cat can
make a difference for felines in need because there are approximately
3.4 million waiting to find forever home. Unfortunately, less than half of
shelter cats (1.4 million) are adopted each year and your local shelter is
looking for people just like you to take a feline home. Since Adopt a Shelter
Cat Month was established to bring awareness to the high number of homeless
kitties looking for a home, let's take a look at some tips to prepare yourself
and your house for a new cat!
Huge Variety To Choose From
Animal
shelters across the country are filled with all kinds of cats and that means
you'll have some decisions to make when choosing one or more to join your
family. From domestic short hairs to Persians to Maine Coons and more, you'll
be surprised at the number of breeds available! It goes without saying that
cats some in all different shapes, sizes and colors, but one thing is for sure,
take one look at their eyes and you'll fall in love – no matter what they look
like. While you check out the available cats, be sure to ask the shelter staff
how the breed behaves because you'll want to choose one that can fit your
lifestyle. Some breeds are more energetic or cuddly than others, so do some
research so you can pick one that'll suit your preferences. Also, bear in mind
they have their own unique personality, so it may take some time to gauge how
they will behave in your home.
Stock Up
Before you
head home with your new furry friend, it's important to get all the supplies
they need before you let them loose in your house. Sometimes new pet owners
will bring them home first out of excitement and then realize they don't have
any supplies! With that in mind, you'll need the following basics:
- Litter box & litter
- Food bowl & water bowl
- Collar & a cat carrier
The above
items are the bare necessities, so let's take it a step further! Head to the
local pet supply store and pick up cat toys – they'll need some stimulation
during the day when you're not home, so consider some fun toys for them. Things
like balls, stuffed mice (the ones filled with catnip are always a favorite
among felines), a scratching post (you don't want them to scratch your
furniture) and a cat tower (usually has a few vertical levels with little cubby
holes). Additionally, if you have other pets or just want to be extra cautious,
order flea
prevention for cats online because you'll typically find lower priced medication.
Visit The Veterinarian
After you've
taken your new furry friend home, schedule a visit with your vet for a general
wellness check. Even though most shelter cats are updated on their vaccinations,
it'll provide you with the extra assurance that your cat is healthy and happy. On
top of that, the cat you may have chosen could have been a new addition to the
shelter, so it may not have been neutered or spayed yet. The vet can provide
you with that service and give you some more insight on caring for your new
cat.
Are you
ready to make a difference this month by adopting a shelter cat?
