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Are you ready to make this vow: "I will love and respect you for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, until death do us part." Think about this carefully before making a decision. Millions of homeless cats end up in shelters all over the US every year. Most of them are killed within one week and not only the mix-breeds. 30% of all shelter animals are homeless pure breeds, that makes several hundred thousand purebred animals that are killed. No-kill rescues like ours end up too crowded and can't take in enough of those poor abandoned cats. The sad stories are endless, and we don't want them repeated. So this time it has to be for keeps!
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Do your homework first! Read these questions and answer them honestly. Include every member of the household in this, they too have to like the new family member.
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For how long do you think you will want this new companion?
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Cats average life span is 16 to 20 years, and cats have been known to live 25 and more years. This is for indoor cats only, outdoor cats have usually a very short life.
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Do you have the patience and time to try to understand her communication? Will you train her with love and treats instead of harsh words ? Cats do not like loud voices. Take the time to train, there are many good cat behavior web-sites and Pets Haven also will always be ready to help.
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How old are the children in your household?
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Small and young cats have very sharp teeth and claws, and may lash out when teased.
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Small cats are often too delicate for exuberant toddlers . Some cats prefer more quiet than small children will let them have.
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Does anyone in your household have allergies? Try to spend some time with a similar cat before choosing yours.
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Are you willing to carry the ultimate responsibility for the cat, even though, she is for your child. Cats can help teach children responsibility and loyalty, but it is a learning process on both sides. A child, no matter what age, cannot be expected to always remember his responsibility. The cat, on the other hand, has a right to expect her two meals, a clean litter box and her playtime on a regular basis. Cats love routines and regular schedules.
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When you go out of town or are sick, who will take care of your cat?
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Does your lease allow cats? Is there a sunny window for your cat to sit in? Even indoor cats need some sun.
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Can you tolerate some damage to your furniture and floors? It will take time before your new cat ( especially kittens) knows what is allowed and what not.
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Are you willing to shoulder the financial responsibility? Adoption fees are usually minimal but the cost of quality food, medical care and flea tick control can be significant. And don't forget regular dental care, cats have dental problems just as much as people and if not taken care of it will cause other health problems.
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If you choose a kitten remember that they have to learn how to learn. Just like toddlers they will test their limits. Teach with kindness, patience and treats, never punish with harsh words or any sort of hitting or pushing. If harsh treatment, abuse or neglect is suspected, Pets Haven will take possession of the animal immediately.
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Adult cats are usually already litter box trained, know how to learn and have their full size and personality – with other words, you know what you get. Cute little kittens will quickly grow up into cats from 6lbs. to 25 lbs.
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Time to adopt?
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Are you willing to answer questions about yourself? We ask proof of your identity and residence, name of landlord or board of directors, if you rent; name of your veterinarian, your place of employment and work schedule to see if you have time to socialize and train your cat.
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If the cat is young and still needs to be neutered, will you let us check with you to make sure that is being done?
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When you decide on a specific cat, check on its history and take the rescue advisor's or foster parent's advise. They will know the cat well enough to judge if it is suitable for your situation.
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Everyone in your household should meet the new cat and agree to the adoption.
