Tag Archive for: New Cat

How to Choose a Cat That’s Right for You

How to Choose a Cat That’s Right for You

Welcoming a new animal into your home is a big step. So how do you make sure that the cat you’re adopting is the right one for you? We’ve put together some of the most common factors in choosing a cat that’s right for you.

Size


How big or small is your space? Cats do best in pairs, do you have enough room for 2 cats? While cats don’t come in as varied of sizes as dogs, some breeds like Maine Coons (8-25lbs) are much larger than your standard house cat (8-11lbs). Do you want a large cat or a smaller cat?

 

 

 

Activity Level


Not all cats are lazy. Some cats really like to play – like Bengals. Are you looking for a more sedentary cat or do you want one that’s always on the go?

 

 

 

 

Physical Maintenance


Some cat breeds require more grooming than others – especially long hair cats! Are you able to keep up with a regular grooming schedule? For example, Persians need groomed one a month.

 

 

 

 

Age


Kittens require the most training and attention and can be a wild-card for personality. While an adult cat will give you a better idea of their energy level, attitude, and temperament. How about letting a senior cat spend their golden years with you?

 

 

 

 

Breed


Do you want a purebred cat? What about a domestic house cat (aka a mutt)? If you’re looking for a specific breed check with local rescues in your area that specialize in that breed or research reputable cat breeders.

 

 

 

Congratulations on your new friend! We hope you two have many happy years together. Despite what many people may think, cats can’t be left alone for days at a time. If you’re planning on going out of town, Wet Noses Pet Sitting can help with cat visits. From short visits to overnights, we can custom tailor a schedule for you and your cats needs.

If there’s any other important tips for choosing a cat that’s right for you that we missed, let us know in the comments.

Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions

Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions Header

Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions

Everybody has their reasons why cats make wonderful companions. But what if you’re on the fence about adopting a feline companion? Here are 10 of our reasons why cats make wonderful companions.

1. Cats are independent.

Cats are known for being more independent than dogs. Some people prefer this in a cat, others prefer bullet point number 2.

2. But they also can be cuddle bugs.

Nothing beats a warm cat curled up in your lap or having your cat follow you around. Some cats love to be around people and “participate” in the discussion.

3. They’re great apartment pets.

Cats tend to require less space than dogs, don’t require a yard, multiple walks daily, and don’t have to be let out to go to the bathroom every few hours. This makes them ideal apartment pets. Bonus points if you’re on a higher floor.

4. Lower maintenance than dogs.

Not into going for walks? Cats can be trained to walk on a leash but if that isn’t your thing that’s fine! Cats also don’t have to be professionally groomed as regularly as dogs – though their nails do need trimmed frequently and long haired cats especially need brushed.

5. Cats cost less to care for than dogs.

Toys don’t typically get destroyed around cats meaning they don’t need replaced as often. Having a smaller animal means less monthly expenses on pet food. Cat veterinary bills also tend to be a bit lower than dogs because of their smaller size.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t splurge on your cat or get a pet when you cannot afford one in your monthly budget. Cats still need:

  • Quality food
  • Litter
  • Annual veterinary examinations
  • Toys
  • Pet insurance – while optional is still a great thing to have

6. Cats are good for your health.

Purring is actually a way cats heal themselves and you! “Cats purr during both inhalation and exhalation with a consistent pattern and frequency between 25 and 150 Hertz. Various investigators have shown that sound frequencies in this range can improve bone density and promote healing.”[1] Plus they’re fun to watch. If you’re ever in a bad mood go watch some cat videos.

7. They can be a natural pest-control.

Not every cat is a great hunter but when they are they can be a great natural pest-control. Just make sure they’re up to date on their vaccines and dewormed regularly. If you do find your cat bringing you a lot of rodents or other creatures be sure to contact your local pet control.

8. Cats are renowned for keeping themselves clean.

Felines spend an average of 5 hours grooming themselves each day. This helps to keep dirt and tangles out of their fur which is why they require less professional grooming appointments.

9. Cats are quiet.

Need I say more?

10. They bring us joy and entertainment.

Cats are fun to watch. That’s why they’re the ruling class of the internet.

You’re sold! You want to get a cat! But, a cat doesn’t factor into your current lifestyle or budget. If that’s the case considering volunteering at your local shelter or humane society. This can provide you with that feline companionship you want while also not having to stress about full-time care-giving.

These aren’t all the reasons why cats make wonderful companions! Every cat is unique and provides a different cat owner experience. Why do you think they wonderful companions? Tell us in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Getting a Cat – Complete Checklist for New Cat Owners

 

Cats make wonderful companions and are great additions to any family. They are creatures of comfort, so if you’re a first-time cat owner, make sure to have all the essentials ready for them. Getting a new kitty is a big change for you and for your new friend. To help make this time easier for you, we’ve got the complete checklist of everything thing you need and need to know.

Download the Complete Preparing for a New Cat  Checklist

Important Considerations:

Lifestyle: While it’s true that cats don’t exactly need as much time as a new dog, but they still need love, attention and a stable family life. Ask yourself the following questions before jumping into adoption.

  • Do you or anyone in the house have allergies to cat hair, dander or dirt?
  • Do you have any other pets that may not take well to a new cat? If so, do you have a plan of introducing them to each other?
  • Who will be the primary caretaker?
  • Do you want a long hair or short hair breed? Long hair breeds will take more time for daily grooming and may have more hairballs.
  • Will work or social life affect your ability to properly care for them?
  • Does your residence allow pets and is your home suited for a new cat?
  • Would an older cat or younger cat better suit your lifestyle? Kittens take more time and have more energy, but older cats may need more veterinarian care.

Costs: You want to make sure that you can always care for your vet. The best way is to create a budget for a new cat before you bring them home.

  • Does your new pet need to be spayed or neutered?
  • Is there an adoption fee that needs to be paid?
  • Monthly expenses such as food, litter, pet sitting or new supplies
  • Licensing fees and rabies shots
  • Litter box and scoop
  • Routine veterinary care
  • Microchipping
  • Grooming Brush
  • Beds and toys

Shopping Checklist:

Once you’ve decided a new cat will fit well into your lifestyle and you can afford the cost of care, the next thing to do is hit the pet store to get them their supplies.

  • Age appropriate food
  • Water and food bowls
  • Collar
  • Leash
  • ID tags (make sure your phone number is on it)
  • Hard plastic cat carrier
  • Litter Box
  • Litter Scoop
  • Brush
  • Sponge and scrub brush for accidents and hairball clean up
  • Non-toxic cleaner
  • Toys (feathers on wands, catnip mouse, etc)
  • Blanket or bed
  • Cat toothbrush and toothpaste

There’s no doubt that cats add spunk and tons of joy to any home. They may seem aloof, but in reality, they are just as caring as they are smart. A peaceful home full of warmth and love is a perfect place for a new feline friend.

Download the Complete Preparing for a New Cat  Checklist

5 Tips to Picking a Veterinarian You Love!

 

Adding a new pet to your family is very exciting. It’s important to find a good vet and start their care as soon as possible. But it is likely that you feel a little overwhelmed when you see the long list of vets in the directory. It’s not too hard to narrow down the search if you know what to consider when choosing a vet.

1. What kind of accreditation do they have?

The best veterinary hospitals are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). They regularly evaluate the practices on about 900 different standards of excellence, which means the level of care is the best in the industry. Visit their website to find an AAHA accredited vet near you.

Many clinics are also starting to offer a Fear Free certification. This is a course that teaches veterinarians to work with animals in such a way as to minimize the fear and stress involve in a vet visit. Find a Fear Free certified veterinarian near you.

2. How convenient are their hours and location?

There’s no doubt that we are busy people. That is why it is important to have a veterinarian office that is located near your home or on your daily commute. Moreover, make sure that they have the hours that fit your daily schedule. If you work long days, find a location with evening or weekend hours.

3. What type of emergency care do they offer?

Accidents and sickness happens. We can’t plan for them and unfortunately they also can happen at all hours of the night. Make sure to have a plan in place for emergency care. If the vet you choose has AAHA accreditation, there is a good chance they have 24 hour emergency services.

4. Do they have in house medical equipment and lab testing?

The best offices have in house testing and equipment. If your pet needs lab work or x-rays, the results will be faster; meaning you will know what is wrong and how to treat it as soon as possible.

5. Are there good online reviews and testimonials?

Nothing beats a face to face encounter to tell how much (or how little) you are going to like any particular office. However, in the great day and age of the internet, we have sites like Yelp.com that help shine the light behind the doors. Read reviews on community sites as well as testimonials on their website as well. This will help you get an idea if the practice is a good fit for you family.

 

After you’ve picked a vet, go for a regular check to assess the level of care. If they are a perfect, then great! If not, try again until you find the one that is just right for you.

Do you have any recommendations for veterinarian offices in the Fort Collins or Loveland area? Sound off in the comments below and let us know!