Purrfect Pets

Cats don’t make good Christmas presents, and I’ll tell you why.

First, cats and kittens are a major responsibility. If you unexpectedly get someone a kitten or cat for Christmas, he or she may not want to take on that responsibility. Aside from the daily feedings, water changings, and litter cleanings, cats require regular veterinary care and yearly vaccinations. Someone may not be able to financially afford a cat at this time in his or her life even if he or she wants one.

Second, the recipient needs to be able to pick out hir or her own kitty. Cats have different temperments and whoever is taking care of the kitty needs to be able to know that he or she will not only get along with the kitty, but will love it as well. Some people like playful cats, for instance, while others prefer lap cats.

Third, cats require a lot of things - things an unsuspecting recipient may not have, such as a litter box, food and water bowls, litter, cat toys, a collar, and a cat bed. Again, someone may not be able to afford all of these things at this time in his or her life.

Fourth, the house needs cat-proofing, especially for kittens. An unsuspecting recipient won’t have the time to prepare his or her home for a new kitty. Small things need to be picked up off the floor, electrical cords need to be sprayed with Bitter Apple or covered with cord covers, and chemical cleaners need to be put in a safe place where cats cannot easily access them.

If you want to get someone a cat or kitten for the holidays, I recommend you talk it over seriously with the recipient first. If he or she agrees to the idea, allow him or her to go with you to pick out the cat he or she wants. Make sure the recipient can afford the kitty and leave time for the recipient to get the apprpriate supplies for the new kitty as well as cat-proof the house in advance.

Please tell me what you think in the comments section below!

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