Posted by Martisimo on March 06, 2003 at 08:15:14:
In Reply to: Re: How should I prepare posted by Midask9 on March 05, 2003 at 14:31:22:
YOu have gotten wonderful advice here. Very important to let the cat get slowly and completely used to the house before the upset of getting introduced to dogs. Some older cats who have not been around dogs have difficulty ever accepting them, but may someday lower themselves to tolerate their presence.
:Congrats on deciding to perhaps add a shelter kitty to your home! Since you are looking at the shelter, you should have a good selection of kitties to choose from, with various traits. I would look for a couple of things in a cat that would help it fit into your home. First off, many cats at the shelter have been around dogs in their previous home. A cat raised with dogs, should easily make the adjustment to your dogs, so that would be an excellent thing to look for. Personally, I would also look for a cat that has not been declawed. If the dogs really bug him he can defend himself, and get the message across to them that he doesn't wish to play. If you cannot find a cat raised around dogs, then a younger cat would make the transition easier than an adult, so that's another thing to think about. As for getting prepared, the shelter will offer some excellent suggestions. Basic things like selecting a vet, and getting supplies (litter box, kitty food dishes, a scratching post or cat tree) would all help you prepare, and of course reading and asking for advice are both great! Good luck in your search for a new family member, I look forward to hearing about him/her!
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::I am thinking about getting a cat from my local shelter. I have never had a cat before. I wanted to know if there is anything I should do especially since I have two big dogs. Both of my dogs have been aroung cats before and they pretty much ignore them, so I'm not too worried. But I want to know if I should bring them to the shelter to meet the cat first or just bring the cat home. I also wanted to know if there is anything else I should prepare/be prepared for before I get my new cat.
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