Should You Adopt A Cat For Christmas?
We’ve all seen Christmas commercials where a cute kitten with a big red ribbon pops out of a beautifully wrapped box. The person smiles wide and cuddles the new kitten, hugs or kisses their loved one, and they live happily ever after. However, it is just a commercial. There is more to this picturesque scene when you think about adopting a new whiskered friend for Christmas.
Pets are not simply something to “gift” to someone without proper consideration.
What To Consider Before Adopting
You have to have a well thought out plan when adopting a new pet. They are real live creatures and not just toys. You need to consider everything that goes into pet ownership such as cleaning a litter, food and water bowls in the kitchen, monetary expenses for vet care and vaccines. Bringing a new animal into your home at Christmas can truly be wonderful, but it is not something to go into half-heartedly.
Why you should adopt a cat for Christmas:
- Your loved one or child will be able to take care of them
- You know that they have their shots and vet care lined up
- The person receiving the cat knows that this not just an “until” pet, but a forever pet
- You are saving a life by rescuing a kitty
- Preparations have been made and supplies have been purchased for kitties arrival
When you should NOT adopt a cat for Christmas:
- It’s a complete surprise and you “think” your loved one wants one or “would” want one
- You’re not sure if you or the one receiving can financially handle the care
- You don’t have any supplies or preparations made before bringing kitty home
- There are other pets in the home that may cause an unhappy or stressful environment
- There is no thought about commitment for the long run
- There’s a chance someone in the home is allergic
Getting a Cat is a Serious Commitment
If you are gifting a kitten or cat to a kid, think about their ages. Cats can live up to 18-20 years. A child that is 10 and receiving a cat will be moving out to college at some point during the cat’s life. This may mean that the cat will end up being your responsibility if they can’t take it with them. It is a terrible tragedy to re-home a pet after living with a family for so long. And older cats are even harder to place, which makes them more likely to live out the rest of their days in a shelter.
If You Do Decide to Adopt
Adopting a cat for Christmas can be a fun and exciting time for a family. As long as it is done properly, adding a new family member is truly a gift that keeps giving. Cuddles, playtime, purrs and head boops are truly special, but remember to really think about them and their entire life before bringing one home.
Nicole founded Miami Pet Concierge in May 2007 with a mission to provide Miami, Florida’s pet parents with personalized pet care plans based on their pets’ species, age, breed, health, and lifestyle – All while keeping their pets “happy at home.” In addition, offering pet care education to all pet owners to help them become great pet parents.
