Owning a Cat
Cat Ownership
Cats are a great addition to your family, or as your companion. They are fairly independent animals, but nearly all cats love getting attention from their owner, and will return the love and affection that you give them. It is also believed that owning a cat reduces stress in the cat owners. Cats are very clean, don't need to be taken for walks, and are happy with somewhere warm to sleep, regular food, and access to the outdoors (or a large indoor space) to play and exercise themselves.
Cat ownership is a long term committment, and before getting a cat or kitten, you should think about whether you are prepared for what this will entail over quite a few years.
Accomodating Your Cat
All cats love to sleep somewhere warm and dry. This can be something as simple as a cardboard box with a blanket in it, or you can buy or make cat beds of all shapes and sizes. The sleeping area should be in a room that is not drafty, and in apart of the house that is not constantly full of people, although most cats still manage to sleep whatever is going on around them.
Exercise
Cats need plenty of exercise combined with a good diet to keep them healthy. They will exercise themselves going outside and playing with toys inside. Make sure that your cat either has access outside or plenty of space inside.
Providing some toys for your cat to play with will encourage your cat to stay active. Something as simple as a cork on a string hanging from the bottom of a table or chair will amuse a cat for a long time.
Allergies
If you suffer from an allergy or asthma, you should consult your doctor before getting a cat about the possible reactions that you may have. Asthma UK advise that it is probably best for Asthma sufferers not to have a cat, as cat hair or skin can induce asthma attacks or other respiratory problems. If you have a cat and suffer from asthma, regularly bathing your cat using a cat shampoo may help as it will reduce the amount of loose hair and skin cells.
The RSPCA Complete Cat Care Manual is full of all the information you need to look after your cat. Available in our store.
