Choosing the Right Cat for Your Family

Although it is a matter of personal preference as to what type or breed of cat you choose for your family pet, there are some things that need to be considered when choosing the right cat for your family.

If you have a particular breed in mind be sure to do some research about the characteristics of the breed you have chosen and the particulars of the care it may need. For instance the Persian Longhair are very difficult to care for. They need to be combed/brushed every day or

their fur will quickly become matted. Because of their thick and luxurious fur, a Persian Longhair will not do well in a hot and humid environment. They are an extremely calm breed, but not overly loving and do not like to be held overmuch. Siamese cats are usually high strung and excitable. Rex cats are extroverts and lots of fun and the American Shorthair loves to play with children. Then there is the Chartreux, which is a tenacious hunter.

If you are looking for a particular breed, but don't want to spend as much money, you can often find breeders with kittens that don't quite meet the breed standards and are willing to sell these kittens at a much lower price. Look for local cat shows where you can meet the breeders. Most should be quite willing to answer any questions you may have.

Once you have decided on a breed (or mix) be sure that the kitten you are considering is happy and that it's weight is in proportion to it's age. Look for infections (eyes, nose, ears). Bad signs are running or smelly ears, bloated stomach, coughing, sneezing, lack of appetite and diarrhea.

Male or Female?

If you are going to have your cat neutered, then there will not be a whole lot of difference in the temperament of your cat. A male cat, once neutered, loses it's more aggressive characteristics very shortly after the procedure.

Males grow a bit larger than females, may be more aggressive, independent and will have a tendency to keep to themselves sometimes, but as stated above, neutering will alter much of this.

Females is more affectionate than the male, easily purrs and, except for when in heat, is more house oriented.

It is a bit difficult to discern the sex of kittens in the first weeks. One of the first kittens I purchased, I named Bob because the owner told me it was a 揾e? It wasn't until 揾is?first vet visit that we found out I had a lovely girl. In my case that was perfectly all right ?but you may have a specific preference. The rule of thumb is that there is LESS space between the anal hole and the genitals in a female than there is in a male.

A kitten is ready to go to it's new home no sooner than 2 months of age. Any sooner than this and the lack of mothers milk with it's protein richness and fat content could cause health problems down the road.

Your kitten should be well acclimated to it's new home within 24 hours or so. Cats are extremely adaptable!