Thinking of getting a Kitty?

• Male or female
• A cat for your child
• Holidays. What about the Cat?
• Where to Get One
• What Age Should It Be
• How do I Tell if its Healthy

Male or Female

This is really a matter of personal choice. I have found there is very little difference between males and females. Especially since you are getting the cat for a pet it should be neutered as soon as it is old enough.

Telling male from female can be tricky. They are easy to sex when first born and not covered in hair. However, at about 10 - 12 weeks the distance between the anus and the sexual orifice is larger in males than females. Also in the male the sexual orifice is round whereas in females it is more like a slit.

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A Cat for Your Child

Buying a kitten for a young child is not a good idea. Cats are very sensitive by nature. They dislike rough handling, sudden movements, coercion, loud noises and banging. However, cats and young children still manage to exist harmoniously together if the parents teach them the correct way to treat an animal and they are available to ensure that the cats needs ae not violated. Older children can get involved with the responsibilites of caring for the cat if they express the desire. In fact, this is a great way for them to learn to respect animals. Cat's have rights too!!

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Holidays!! What about the Cat?

Have someone in mind to care for your cat while you are going to be absent from home. Most places now have "Pet sitters" if you dont have a trusted friend or relative who can come over and care for the cat. Taking the cat from their own environment and away from their owners can be traumatic and it is during this time that the cat is most likely to become sick. However, if you must resort to a cattery to care for your baby then do some homework and make sure that they will be in safe hands. Ensure your cat's vaccinations are up to date.

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Where to Get One?

Unfortunately, unwanted kittens are often in plentiful supply. So you normally don't have to look very far for a kitten unless you are planning on purchasing a pedigreed one. Check your local paper or go to an animal shelter, RSPCA or similar. There you will find plenty eagerly awaiting a loving home. Where ever you do find your kitten have it checked by the vet as soon as possible.

If your plan is to purchase a pedigree then you will need to contact your local Cat Society who will be able to give you a list of breeders. On contacting breeders, ask questions, make sure its a loving environment. That way you can feel more comfortable that the cat has been properly raised and cared for. Some breeders will only sell on contract and should be fully discussed prior to purchase. You should receive a written bill of sale and registration papers. Again you would be well advised to take your new kitten to the vet for a checkup and most breeders will advise this. A reputable breeder will accept the kitten back should it be found not to be in good health. They will also offer an "after sales service" should you have any questions or concerns with caring for your kitten.

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What Age Should The Cat Be

Ordinarily a kitten should be at least 8 weeks old before leaving home. Sometimes, they are given away much sooner and these kittens usually require much more care and attention.

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How do I Tell If It's Healthy

Healthy kittens are full of beans. They are very active, playing with the other kittens, will look very alert although maybe a little clumsy and will have a good appetite. It wil have bright, clear eyes with no sign of tearing and its nose will be cool and dry. Ears should be clean inside and if a kitten is scratching its ears or shaking its head then it most likely has some ear mites. Always check the kittens rear end to ensure that there is no sign of diarrhea. Unless you are prepared for some expense do not buy one out of pity. If you are purchasing something that is below standard then you are supporting irresponsible breeders.