|
Some of us know that cats are loving and truly wonderful creatures.
It is a fairly common sight to see a cat in
virtually every other home, sleeping in the window or cuddling
up on the laps of their owners.
Cats have been domesticated
for about 5,000 years or so. Research tells us domestication took place in the
valley of the Nile.
In the beginning, people encouraged cats to stay with them by feeding them scraps
of food. Once the cat would move in permanently with their human
owners, it would allow the
humans to approach him, perhaps even hold and touch him as well.
Cats have apparently always been loyal and endearing pets. They
proved to be great hunters, clearing the immediate area of
vermin and rodents.
Cats have good night vision and hearing.
When someone moved through the house or if they heard
suspicious noises, they would wake easily. Humans seemed
to love having cats around.
Today, cats are used for companionship and show. You may
also still find them on farms hunting mice and other rodents.
There are many breeds available, from alley cat to
purebred Persian. All breeds are unique and will provide you with
many years of companionship
if you take care of them.
Before you get a feline companion, examine the source. The
Human Society or your local animal shelter are wonderful places
to get new pets. They are generally familiar with the
animal and can tell you if it's personality fits your home
situation.
If you are getting the kitten from a
breeder, make sure that the breeder is reputable. Make
sure the
cattery is clean and in good shape. The kittens that are still
there shouldn’t be overcrowded, and their surroundings should be
clean. The litter boxes should be maintained and both the
food and water dish should be clean and full. Kittens
shouldn’t be caged, and all cats that
are there should appear healthy.
When you get a kitten it should be comfortable with being handled. The better breeders won’t allow their kittens to
leave the nest until they are around 12 weeks old, and some wait until kittens are 16 weeks. By doing this, breeders
ensure that the kitten is in good health and his immune system
has properly developed.
Cats can be great to own. You can
get a kitten from the humane society, your local animal shelter, a reputable breeder, through a local
newspaper, or through an adoption agency.
No matter which way you decide to pursue, make sure that your cat is healthy. Healthy cats were taken care of – and normally have
everything up to date – including their vaccinations.
|
