Becoming a responsible cat owner
Owning a cat is a joy, but also a privilege. You are now responsible for the care and wellbeing of another living animal, and it's important (for both of you) that you are properly prepared.
Before you take the final plunge, check that you're prepared to look after your cat in the way he deserves:
Family & Friends
Owning a cat isn't just about you. Does your family want a cat too? Are any of them allergic to cat hair? If they are, are you getting a short-haired cat and taking precautions to keep your family safe? Regularly wiping down your cat with a grooming pad will remove excess hair and the saliva that can sometimes cause allergic reactions.
You will also need the help of your family and friends to help you look after your cat if you go away or can't always be there at mealtimes, so make sure everyone knows they have a part to play.
Environment
It's important that your cat is safe and feels loved in his own home. If you already have pets, will they be friendly to a newcomer? Do you live near a busy road? We deal with many claims for pets involved in road traffic accidents, so think carefully about the consequences of letting your cat roam free.
You'll also need to be slightly more relaxed about how house-proud you are. There will be a period of toilet-training and furniture-scratching for kittens, no matter how well-behaved they are, and your home will be a much hairier place!
Finance
Owning a cat is an investment. Good food, toys and other cat accessories all cost money, and of course there's those vet fees, special diets and treatments that most cat owners experience at some point in their lives. The costs of these can sometimes come as a nasty surprise, so it can be sensible to spread them out and give yourself peace of mind with a comprehensive pet insurance policy.
Duty of Care
Finally, a cat should be a real part of your family, given the love and attention he deserves. Will you have the time to set aside a couple of 15 minute play sessions every day (or if not you, some other family member)? Will you have time to groom him regularly (especially important if you're getting a long-haired breed)? Do you have the staying-power to be a good cat owner for many years? Cats can live a long time, sometimes over 20 years, so it's important to know what you're letting yourself in for.
