It's no secret that shelters are teeming with animals needing a new home. This is why rescue cats are a great alternative to those gotten from pet stores. There are also many other reasons why you should consider this option.
One of the biggest benefits of cat rehoming is that it's usually less expensive than pet store price. It's certainly cheaper than getting a cat from a breeder. Also, felines from shelters have typically already been given all necessary shots and may even be neutered.
Kittens aren't for everyone either. Cat rehoming allows you to get an older pet so you don't have to go through the troubles of dealing with a small kitten. Much like a baby, they would need to be trained. However, an older cat may still give you problems until he gets used to his new environment.
Speaking of problems, there are a few problems new owners may experience with rescue cats. One of the most common is aggression. The animal shelter environment can be tough to deal with for some animals. You'll need to keep this in mind when dealing with a new cat. It's important to give him time to get used to you, other people in the home, and the new environment.
Another common problem is housebreaking the cat. It's a good idea to keep your new kitty in just one room so he doesn't mess up the whole house. Once he starts using the litter box correctly, you can let him roam around. You should also be aware that various medical issues can cause cats to have litter box issues.
Pets that you already have in your home can also be a problem when dealing with rescue cats. This is especially true if there's another cat since they're very territorial. On the flip side, having a companion to play with can be a good thing.
There are a few things you can do to make rehoming cats a slightly easier process. You can ask the workers at the shelter what kind of food, along with the brand, that the kitty has been eating. Giving the same type at home will provide a measure of comfort.
It's also vital that you limit your rescue cat's stress. Being in a shelter is already a stressful experience, and it causes even more stress being brought to a new home. You should provide your cat with a safe place that he can retreat to to feel comfortable.
Rehoming cats can be a rewarding experience since you're saving an animal's life. You will also save a bit of cash too since it's less expensive than a breeder or pet store. Although you may experience a few problems, things will be fine if you're patient and build up trust with your new companion slowly.
Author Resource:
Edison Chase lives in Boston and writes on subjects as diverse as computers, private high schools in Boston and pet supply shops in Boston