Adopting a stray cat

I love cats. Whether an expensive breed or an adopted stray, they are always wonderful and interesting companions. Though they seem to always keep to themselves and seldom display affection, these eccentric creatures can still be great pets to have around. They are perfect pets whether you live alone or with a bunch of rambunctious kids. If you are thinking of getting a cat for a pet, why not consider adopting a stray or pick one from a cat shelter? It will definitely save you a lot of money and at the same time help these helpless felines get a new home.

I have three cats: Lily was a stray that has found a home on my porch while Bones and Sham were adopted from a shelter. Having them around gives me tremendous joy! It was my friend, Shawn Umsted, who introduced me to the wonderful world of cats. He was the one who advised me to check out shelters first before shopping for an expensive breed in a pet store. Shawn was right! I fell in love with Bones and Sham the instant I saw them as scraggly little kittens sharing a cage and immediately decided to adopt them! I was amazed that Lily took the kittens like her own when I brought them home.

However, it is important to take the cat to a vet for the necessary checkup when you are adopting a stray or picking one from a shelter. Your cat must get all the necessary vaccinations which include shots for rabies, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis and calicivirus. Also have the vet check for internal parasites and get topical treatment for fleas and ticks, if necessary. If the cat isn't spayed or neutered, make plans to take care of that.

Make your cat feel at home. Make sure your pet has enough food and water, and have it wear a collar so nobody else thinks your new friend is a stray. Buy some toys for the cat. Bright rubber balls are perfect choice. Treat your new pet right and it will return the favor a thousand fold!