So, you want to buy a cat. While you’re definitely excited, you might be unsure if you should buy an adult cat or a kitten as a first-time owner. Both decisions have their advantages, but one is generally easier to handle as new pet owner.
If you’re about to buy your first cat, it might be easier to choose an adult cat. While kittens are undeniably cute, they require lots of time and attention. For people with busy lives, that level of care isn’t always possible. Adult cats are much more mature, so they need less training and require a shorter adjustment period. That being said, adult cats still deserve an attentive owner that will love and care for them.
The Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters know a few things about cats of all ages. Our loving sitters can watch over your cat while you’re away, no matter how old it is. For peace of mind when you’re out of town, call the Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters today at (404) 793-6178.
Should You Buy an Adult Cat or a Kitten as a First-Time Owner?
It can be easier to start with an adult cat when you’re first learning the ropes about cat parenthood. Of course, that depends on your experience with cats and the amount of free time you have. Generally, buying an adult cat will be a simpler experience for first-time owners.
Kittens
Like newborn babies, kittens need lots of attention. That’s not to say you can show less love and affection to adult cats. It just means that kittens require constant supervision when they’re young. Kittens also have plenty of energy. You’ll need to train them not to rip up your carpet and you might have to introduce them to a litterbox for the first time. Kittens also need to be socialized with other cats and humans more than adult cats do. These tiny cats are a bit more unpredictable than older felines. After all, they’re learning everything for the first time.
There’s another reason you might not want to buy a kitten as a first-time owner. Once they’ve been trained, older cats can be left alone in the house for a bit. Kittens, however, are not so trustworthy. If you have a brand-new kitten and need to leave town, you might find yourself in a bit of a pickle. Do you trust your kitten with a friend, or should you try to travel with it? If you need to travel when your kitten is young, the Roswell cat sitters at Critter Sitters can help. Our attentive cat sitters are able to care for kittens who need lots of attention. While kittens can be more work than adult cats, the joy of raising them can make it all worth it.
Adult Cats
As a first-time owner, buying an adult cat can be the best route to take. That way, you can learn how to take care of a cat without the stress and uncertainty that can come with raising kittens. Adult cats are often socialized before you welcome them, which is a plus. While you’re in the process of adopting an adult cat, lots more information will be available. You’ll probably learn its history with other cats, other pets, and other humans. You’ll know its quirks, its likes, and its dislikes before you buy it. Adult cats can be a breeze for first-time owners because they’re relatively solitary creatures. Of course, cats can be loving and affectionate, but they’re inherently self-sufficient.
That’s not to say that your adult cat doesn’t need to be taken care of. Any animal you bring into your home deserves the same level of attention. So, while you might not need a cat sitter to spend every waking moment with your adult cat while you’re away, the Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters can still check in periodically to make sure your pet is okay. We’ll feed your cat and play with it (if it’s in the mood). Just because they’re more mature, adult cats aren’t immune to love.
What Should You Know About Adult Cats and Kittens as a First-Time Pet Owner?
Whether you choose to buy a kitten or an adult cat as a first-time pet owner, there are a few things you should know. Cats are often seen as the ideal pet for busy people who can’t provide lots of attention. While it’s true that cats are less dependent on their owners than, say, dogs, they still need to be cared for. Cats can’t buy their food, schedule their vet visits, or clean their litter box. As a cat owner, you will have lots of newfound responsibilities.
Play Time
Cats need exercise throughout the day. Whether yours is a kitten or an adult cat, it’s important to participate in intentional play with your pet. Cats are smart animals, so try games that make them think. Physical and mental exercises are essential for the health of your cat. Have to leave town for a bit? No problem. The Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters can make sure your cat of any age gets enough play time while you’re away. Kittens especially need that exercise, so leaving your cat with a trusted sitter can help.
Clean Environment
The run-of-the-mill litter box might not always do the job. There are self-cleaning litter boxes available to make things easier for cat owners. Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to keep your cat’s spaces clean. Kittens will be confused by their litter box at first, and your adult cat still deserves a sanitary space. While you don’t have to take your cat on walks each day, you will have to clean its litter box and keep things tidy.
High-Quality Food
Don’t scrimp on food. The food you feed your kitten or adult cat will directly impact its health. Stay away from raw foods, as eating them can make your cat sick. High-protein diets are ideal for cats, young and old. Subpar food will leave your cat tired and unhappy. Kittens usually eat wet food, and adult cats eat dry food. Keep that in mind when you buy your first cat.
Call Critter Sitters for Kitten and Adult Cat Sitting Services
Our team of dedicated cat sitters can watch your cat while you’re away, regardless of its age. For trusted care when you’re out of town, call the Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters today at (404) 793-6178.
