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Should I Get A Cat? Let's Find Out

Chipman Road Animal Clinic • January 11, 2021
Everything About Owning a Cat | Chipman Animal Clinic

Any animal lover has thought about what their life would be like with a new pet. It’s one thing to consider it after seeing a cute cat video online or getting to play with your friend’s pet, but it’s another to actually feel like you are ready yourself. 


Adopting a cat can be incredibly rewarding, the bond you and your cat share is indescribable, and you will build a lifetime of memories, but it is also an immense responsibility. Owning a cat requires constant work. Cats need constant, consistent care and attention and, if you are you are adopting a kitten, the work it takes increases because you must train it as well. 


The most important part of cat ownership is the responsibility and to be responsible you must be well educated. That is why we put together this blog. To help you answer the question “should I get a cat?”


Obviously, YES CATS!

But First ask… Am I Ready for a Cat?

First and foremost! YES! Cat ownership is incredible, and cats and kittens become family members before you even realize it! Sharing pictures with friends, coming home to a happy critter after a long day of work, a new snuggle buddy, you may be excited at the idea of having a new furry friend with all the positives that come with raising a kitten or cat.


But, “am I ready for a cat?” is a whole different question. It is still vital to take a second and really consider everything that goes into cat ownership beyond just the purrs and petting.

Cats and Kittens Require Financial Responsibility

The responsibilities of owning a cat are, not just about feeding and litterboxes. Unfortunately, there is a financial component of cat ownership. The cost of owning a cat can be quite expensive when you factor in food, cat toys to keep your little one entertained, litter boxes, and vet check-ups. You also have to factor in emergencies into your budget in case your cat requires unexpected but immediate care.

Be Prepared to Create a Cat-Friendly Home

You may be ready for a cat but is your home? If you live in an apartment or have signed a lease, are you allowed to have a cat? Do you have other pets who may not get along with your new cat? Is your home cat safe? Aside from the logistics of a cat friendly home, creating a good home for cats means making sure it is an environment a cat can be happy in. Cats climb, scratch furniture and chew on houseplants, it is important you create your home with this in mind. If you have valuable furniture, toxic houseplants, or other things that may affect your cat’s well-being, it may be time to make some adjustments before you get a cat.

Buying or Adopting a Cat Takes Commitment

Not only do you have to provide a happy healthy fur-ever home for your cat, but it is important to make sure your cat is healthy and happy too. Proper diet, exercise, a clean litterbox, and plenty of places to sleep are all necessary for your cat to live its best life; it’s a commitment on your end to make sure your cat is taken care of.

Do You Have Time to Exercise Your Cat?

Like humans, cats do their best when they are healthy and stimulated. One way to get both? EXERCISE! Though cats don’t lift weights or run on treadmills they do need exercise. Typically exercise from cats comes from jumping and playing with exercise cat toys, but you can even leash train your cat to take it out on walks. If your cat does not get the exercise it needs, they can gain weight and become lazy, which can cause health problems down the road and cause unhappiness in your cat. Consider yourself a cat trainer; you should be prepared to help your cat get exercise. 

Guess Who's Cleaning the Litter Box… Not the Cat

It’s a dirty job but somebody has to do it…. And it won’t be your cat. It won’t be fun, but you have to commit to cleaning the litter box DAILY. A clean litter box is good for your cat and will help them not go to the bathroom in places they shouldn’t. You wouldn't want your bathroom to be a mess…neither does your cat.

Most importantly, Owning a Cat is a Lifelong Promise

The reality is you must commit to FUREVER with your feline. You don't want to be in a situation where you have to give the cat away or take them to a shelter. It can cause immense stress and discomfort to the cat and it is often very difficult to rehouse cats. It is an incredible commitment, but the rewards are even better. Having a forever friend with a cat is a bond unlike anything else and will bring you years and years of happiness. If you truly feel you are ready, GO FOR IT!


As always Chipman Road Animal Clinic in Lee’s Summit, MO is here for you if and when you do get a cat!

If you are looking for an expert veterinarian in Lee's Summit, MO, call Chipman Road Animal Clinic 816-524-1886

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