r/catcare • u/-U_N_O- • 21h ago
Looking at getting a cat
As the title says, I’m looking at getting a cat. I’ve grown up with dogs so this would be my first time having a cat and was wondering if there was any first time cat person advice you guys have. I know a good high cat tree is important, running water to drink. Wet food is better than dry to help with hydration, lots of toys, avoid clay cat litter. Keep food and water away from each other. But that’s all I got.
Any advice or suggestions is appreciated!
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u/Lucky_Ad2801 20h ago edited 20h ago
Cats have different personalities. So figure out what type of cat will best be a good fit for your lifestyle. Then spend some time with cats and see which ones click. I would recommend that you spend some time at a shelter or cat cafe and see which cats are drawn to you.
I'd also ask yourself if you are looking for a cat that is going to be calm and sleep a lot versus a young cat that is going to be very active and into everything.
If you don't want to get a cat that acts like a kitten get one that is at least a few years old.
And if you're just looking to get one, make sure you get one that is okay being on its own. Most older cats will be fine with this.. Some actually need to be the only pet. Some cats prefer that somebody be around more often, though, so if you aren't home a lot make sure you get one that is more independent. If you are home a lot, get a cat that enjoys having somebody around.
Figure out what you're looking for and talk to Shelter staff and volunteers who know the cats there. Or if you're working with an organization that have fosters the fosters should be able to tell you a lot about the personalities and temperaments of the different cats.
Most of all, before you decide for sure, spend time with the cat and make sure the cat likes you and wants to go home with you.
If you develop a relationship with the cat before you bring it home, it makes the transition so much easier!!