How to Choose the Right Cat to Adopt

So you’ve decided to adopt a cat. Congratulations! Cat ownership can be an extremely joyful and rewarding experience. But before you get too far ahead of yourself, it’s important to do a little research. The most successful adoptions rely on finding a cat that’s a good match for your lifestyle, temperament and home.

Should you adopt a kitten or an adult cat? One cat or two cats? A little legwork now will help make sure that you and your new companion are set up for success. Some things to consider as you explore your options:

1. Should I adopt a cat or a kitten?

Kittens are adorable and can be a lot of fun, but they also require quite a bit of time, patience and supervision. A new kitten will need lots of playtime and attention as well as litter training and socialization. Make sure your lifestyle allows for that type of time commitment before choosing to adopt a kitten.

Adult cats, on the other hand, require much less of your time and can be ideal for owners who work outside the home. But they can also be less adaptable. This lack of flexibility comes with its own unique set of challenges, especially if you already have other pets. Older cats are also more likely to have existing medical or behavioral issues.

2. What cat personality would fit best in my family?

If you can, try to get a feel for the temperament of any potential feline family members to make sure they’ll be a good fit for your household. A more territorial cat, for instance, could make a wonderful addition to a family with no other pets, but may struggle to integrate into a household with other cats or dogs. Similarly, a cat with a skittish personality may do better in a quiet home than one with young children.

3. How many cats should I adopt?

If you do want your cat to have a companion, many owners find that adopting two cats or kittens at the same time is the best way to foster strong familial bonds. This approach can also help prevent competitive, territorial or aggressive behavior.

Whatever your lifestyle, if you consider these points, you’re sure to find a furry friend that’s perfect for your family.