I've had cats all my life, up until I moved to a new, smaller apartment after my 17 year old fuzzy baby passed away. I haven't gotten another cat since for 2 reasons...first I wasn't ready. Now I'm ready and am considering the 2nd reason: my apartment is quite small (but does allow pets and I'd NEVER move somewhere that didn't so long as I had her) and the kitty wouldn't have access to the outdoors. She'd also be left home alone for at least 10 hours a day. On the other hand, if I were to get a rescue kitty that had always lived it's life in an apartment, it'd be better off to live with someone who loves her then spend time in a shelter where she may be put down. What do you guys think...should I or shouldn't I get a kitty from the shelter? I just want to be sure I'm making the decision that's not selfish but would be good for the cat as well. Thanks!
2006-09-30 15:36:47 · 19 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Cats
Very Cool!
Yes, adopt a shelter cat.
If you are worried about your new kitty being alone, consider looking for a pair of cats that lived together and have been given up-- they already know each other and will make good compnay for you and each other.
Cats think of 'space' in up and down, rather than room size. If you want to increase the cats 'room', use a cat tree. They love them.
2006-09-30 15:51:35 · answer #1 · answered by Dr. Max 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You sound like an experienced cat owner so you know all the things that go along with it. Even with a small apartment a cat would be fine! I know plenty of people who live in flats with a cat or 2. Leaving the cat alone wouldn't be so much of a problem in an older cat seeing as they sleep so much anyhow - just dote love all over the cat when you are home & it will be fine - a loving home to call its own is all that any cat could want - I'm sure your apartment is bigger than a cage at the shelter. You'd be giving a cat a second chance & that's awesome. Some people suggested getting 2 cats which, if space would allow it (you know for 2 litterboxes or a really big one), would be a brilliant idea as they would hang out together & basically take care of themselves while you're at work. I think you have been thinking this through sensibly & it's good to see!
2006-10-01 03:32:59 · answer #2 · answered by shirazzza 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think that a kitty from the shelter would be a great idea. I have a cat that was adopted from the SPCA nine years ago. I got her when she was just a baby, but she's been with me in a one-bedroom apartment all this time. I work full time, so she's alone about 8-10 hours a day too. I try to give her a lot of attention when I get home and on the weekends. Now that she's older, she spends a lot of time sleeping, so I don't worry too much about her being deprived while I'm away. You might want to consider an older cat, as kittens need a lot more attention. (Especially since like babies, they get into everything).
2006-09-30 22:47:22 · answer #3 · answered by johnsredgloves 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
yes, you sound responsible and mature in your way of thinking, and you probably deserve a cat. You may not want to get certain breeds that are very clingy though, as it will be very, very lonely during those hours. Siamese, Burmese and Abyssinian are supposed to be some of the clingy ones. Siamese for sure, I have one and you can hear her meowing from way down the street if we leave her at home. If you get one from a shelter, I would suggest one that is already fixed, and declawed, if you don't want it scratching your furniture. Even if its home most of the day by itself, it is better off there than in the shelter. Good luck! Oh, also see if you can adopt for a trial period, to make sure the cat is a good match for you.
2006-10-01 01:51:26 · answer #4 · answered by Brandy 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think adopting a cat from a shelter wold be a fantastic idea. I just recently did it. The good thing about cats is that they dont require attention at all hours of the day. Perhaps an adult cat? Also, a cat living in an apt is not such a bad thing, as long as he or she has water, food, etc. My 2 cats NEVER go outside, and they love it. Good Luck!!
2006-09-30 22:51:21 · answer #5 · answered by janedoh13 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Yes, rescue one from the shelter.
Did you know that cats who are allowed to go out side live an average of only 5 years?
Indoor cats live much longer, and your vet bills will be lower.
2006-09-30 22:54:11 · answer #6 · answered by gg 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
FINALLY! a reasonable question from a nice person. ok. i think your idea about getting a cat from a shelter that is indoor and okay w/ being alone is a good. just make sure to have lots of play time together when you are home!:)
2006-09-30 22:41:39 · answer #7 · answered by GreenCat 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I think adopting a shelter cat is a great idea. there are so many great cats at shelters that need a for ever home.And actually indoor cats are much safer. I say yes go ahead. get two so they have each other for company :)
2006-09-30 23:19:51 · answer #8 · answered by cin_ann_43 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Hey, why don't you get 2 kittys from the shelter. This way they can keep each other company when you are away. They will be fine kept inside. Safer too. Have fun with whatever you decide. :)
2006-10-01 01:43:04 · answer #9 · answered by Shelby 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
As long as a cat has access to a clean litter box and food and water they are happy creatures. Cats are not as social as dogs and they can be left alone. Just let him or her know that you love it when you are there. You will be a good parent. Good Luck finding that special someone.
2006-09-30 22:41:59 · answer #10 · answered by BumbleBee 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋