Tips for Adopting a Kitten

October 21, 2014

by Natalie Secretan

Adopting a kitten is a big step towards making the commitment to care for another dependent creature for the rest of its natural life. Some cats can live as long as 18 years, some live even longer. So adopting a kitten, as tiny and cute and fluffy as they are, is a serious decision.

It’s important to do some research and find out exactly what you’re signing up for. To help you get started, here are a few tips on adopting a kitten.

4 Tips for Adopting a Kitten

1. Cats come in many breeds – 43 in fact according to petfinder.com. Do you want a shorthaired cat or a longhaired cat like a Persian that requires daily grooming? Do you want a high-energy cat or one that’s more docile? Find out which breed suits your lifestyle so you’re not surprised after you’ve already adopted your kitten.
2. Adoption options – have you decided whether you’re looking for a rescue kitten or if you’re going to go to a breeder or seller? Adoptapet.com and Petfinder.com are two websites that list many reputable rescue organizations. Kijiji is also a good place to try. You can also ask your friends to ask around to see if anyone they know is selling kittens.
3. Kitten background check – if you want an accurate picture of your kitten’s personality, then ask if you can meet the parents. If you’re adopting, it will be more difficult to predict your cat’s temperament, but many foster parents will have a good idea after living with them for a while, so ask lots of questions.
4. Consider fostering – if you’re not ready to commit, then consider fostering a kitten or maybe even a whole litter of kittens. Imagine how much fun that would be and how rewarding once they find loving homes.

Photo credit: Merlijn Hoek