How To Make Your Cat a Lifetime Family Member

Hopefully, you think of your pets as part of your family. In fact, adding a cat to your life should be more like adopting a child than buying a possession. A cat understands his position in the household, and should be made to feel at home. Here's how to make your cat a lifetime family member:

1. Make the commitment. Cats can live up to 20 years. Be sure that you are ready for that commitment before adopting a cat. If you think that you may soon be moving to a place that does not allow cats, now is not the right time to get one. Do not choose a cat simply because your son or daughter wants one; this must be a family decision to ensure that the cat will be welcomed into your home.
2. Take care of your cat. Take your cat to the vet just like you would take your child to the doctor. Do not refuse medical care when it is necessary. Give high-quality food and plenty of water. Your cat will feel unloved if they have to beg you for food every couple of days because their bowl is perpetually empty.
3. Allow your cat to be part of the family. Your cat will not feel like a family member if he's always locked outside, in the garage, or in any other area of the house that is away from people. Cats thrive on human contact, and will get lonely if they are always kept alone.
4. Provide plenty of stimulation. Your cat will get bored without toys and plenty of stimulation, so be sure to play with your cat frequently. Taking care of a cat requires time and energy; if you do not spend enough time with your cat, he won't feel like part of the family. Playing with your cat can help you form a close bond with him.
5. Spend time getting to know your cat. Spend time learning your cat's routines and personality. Cats give lots of signals, including meows and non-verbal clues using their tail, ears, and eyes. Learn how to interpret these clues so that you can understand what your cat is trying to say.
6. Make the financial commitment. When it's all said and done, cats average about 500 dollars per year, per cat for food, veterinary expenses, a litter box and litter, scratching posts, a carrier, and other supplies. Do not try to make a cat part of your family if you can't provide it with everything it will need to live a happy life.
7. Make your house cat-friendly. This goes beyond kitten-proofing by removing chemicals, cords, and other dangers. Provide a scratching post and a nice spot in a window so that your cat can watch the outside world. Don't forget to keep your cat's litter box clean, and set it in a pleasant, quiet location.

Getting a cat should not be a decision you take lightly. Cats, like children, need plenty of love and care for them to feel accepted. Making your cat a lifetime family member takes energy and a financial investment.