Cat Care for Kids: How to Choose a Cat
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Before buying any pet, you need to research the animal. This way you know you are getting a good fit for you and your family. |
Why Buy a Cat?
Which Sex? Male or Female Cat
Kitten or Adult Cat
Longhair or Shorthair Cat
Does a Pedigree (Registered) Cat Matter
Where to Buy a Cat/Kitten
Finding a Vet
Spaying and Neutering Your Cat
Examine (Look Over) the Cat
Why Buy a Cat?
Cats are entertaining, affectionate and self-reliant. Since they do not need to be taken for walks or require daily grooming, they make ideal pets for both children and adults.
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Which Sex? Male or Female Cat
Female cats are more docile and tend to stray less than male cats. Unneutered (not fixed) male cats will often stray looking for females. They will have a tendency to fight more and become a bit territorial.
If you plan on spaying or neutering (fixing your cat) then the only difference between male and female cats will be the weigh. Male cats weight more than the female of the breed. However, it is the breed that matters most.
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Kitten or Adult Cat
Kittens take more work than adult cats. They are more playful and curious. However, kittens are more adaptable to new situations. If you have other pets in your house, then a kitten will respond better. Adult cats have the advantage of being calm and litter boxed trained.
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Longhair or Shorthair Cat
Longhair cats require daily grooming. They will need to be brushed every day to prevent hairballs and to stop matting. This can be a bonding experience and if you have the time is well worth the extra trouble.
If you don’t think you can brush your cat every day, then a shorthair cat is best. They still will need brushing but not nearly as often as the long hair cat.
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Does a Pedigree (Registered) Cat Matter?
The only real reason to buy a pedigree cat is if you wish to show the cat. Pedigree cats are more expensive because of this fact. If you wish to enter you cat into a cat show, talk to the breeder first. They should be able to help you identify a cat with the necessary qualities for winning competitions.
Non-pedigree cats have the same features and behaviors as the pedigree except they are much cheaper. Many times, you can find free kittens in the paper or find cheap ones at an animal shelter. The Humane Society will often sell kittens for the price of the shots and spay or neuter.
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Where to Buy a Cat/Kitten
If you are looking for a pedigree pet, then you will need to find a breeder. They will be able to show the cat’s registration and every necessary to register your new kitten.
If you are just looking for a feline (cat) as a pet, then an animal shelter is a good option. They often will take care of all the vaccinations and you will rescue a cat in need of a good home.
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Finding a Vet
Whether you get a cat or a kitten, you will need to take your cat to the vet for regular visits. They will need special vaccinations (shots) to keep them healthy. Some cities even require your cat to have certain shots.
Ask your friends and neighbors for a good cat vet in your neighborhood.
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Spaying and Neutering Your Cat
Unless you plan on breeding your cat, then spaying and neutering is a good idea. It prevents female cats from getting pregnant and male cats from looking for a mate. It only takes a few days to heal and is often included in pets from animal shelters.
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Examine (Look Over) the Cat
Cats live around 15 years. Therefore, you need to examine the cat or kitten before bringing it home. Watch the kittens play to determine how active the cat is. Additionally, an inactive kitten may be a sign of an illness.
- Lift the tail – A healthy cat will not have poop around the bottom
- Clean ears – Dirty or smelly ears could be a sign of ear mites
- Clear eyes – A kitten’s eyes should be clear with no discharge
- Clean mouth – A kitten should have a pink tongue and nice breath.
- Clean coat – The fur should be clean with no signs of parasites (fles & tics)
Cat Care for Kids: Series
In our next article, we will discuss the needs of cat once you bring it home. Click here to read Cat Care for Kids: Housing & Handling
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