Choosing the right cat
So you are thinking about adopting a cat…
AVA is a rescue agency and our cats reflect that. Some of our cats are very friendly and adapt quickly and others will require time and patience. Some will require an experienced cat owner who is prepared to actively work towards socializing the cat.
AVA strives to ensure the best fit for our cats and for your family, so before you come to the adoption centre, here are a few questions to consider:
What kind of cat is right for me/my family?
Are you looking for a kitten or a slightly older cat? Are you interested in a cat that has a ton of curious energy, or a quiet, calm companion? Much like us, cats are social creatures and many of them love company – are you willing to adopt a friend for your cat now or in the future, if you feel she/he is lonely? Or are you looking to adopt a cat as a companion for your current cat?
Is your house quiet or loud? Busy or calm? Is someone home most of the day or would the cat be alone while you are at work. How many adults, older children, and younger children live in the house?
What kind of lifestyle do you have?
Make sure this the right time: are you about to go on a big trip or start a family? When you are away on business or vacation, do you have someone who can cat-sit for you? Cats need attention and exercise like other animals. Do you have the time to nurture a rescued cat and give it the attention and patience it needs?
Do you have other pets?
Some cats prefer to be the king or queen of the castle and prefer to be alone with their humans. Some rescue cats, especially stray cats, are afraid of dogs so a home with a dog might not be a good fit for all cats. Some dogs have high prey instincts and are rambunctious. This would not be a good home for a kitten or a shy cat. Our goal is to make sure each cat finds a home that best meets his or her needs.
Are my home and family ready?
Does everyone who lives with you agree to the adoption? What if someone develops an allergy? Are you willing to create a space for the cat with their own items such as a cat tree and bed? Are you ready to deal with occasional furniture scratches? Check out Cat 101 to learn more about scratching and other behaviour.
Can you afford a pet?
Do you have the resources to ensure regular medical check-ups, or the extraordinary occasional costs of veterinary care if it develops an illness?
See below for a summary of Costs of Cat Care.
Okay, I’m ready…show me the cats!
How Much Is that Cat?
Food & litter
Cats should be fed a good quality, medium priced dry food and wet food every day. If your cat develops any health issues, they may require a weight loss, dental, or ingredient specific diet which is usually 1.5 to 2 times more expensive. An adult cat will eat about one 5 pound bag of cat food per month and should eat 3 oz of wet food each day.
Expect to pay $60-$100 a month for food and litter.
Vet
Cats require annual vet check-ups and vaccines and may need urgent care should they become injured, lethargic, have diarrhea, or urinary issues.
Vaccinations are critical to your cat’s health and should be administered. The risks are very low and some of the diseases they protect against are very serious. Kittens are especially susceptible and all kittens should be vaccinated at least 10 days before being introduced to a new cat.
All cats should be spayed or neutered as soon as they are old enough and before sexual maturity. Most vets perform the surgery around six months, but a cat can be spayed or neutered as soon as they are 2 pounds. AVA cats and kittens are fixed before they are adopted.
Failing to neuter your male can result in spraying, aggression, and a desire to roam.
Failing to spay your female cat will usually result in pregnancy and can result in other health issues later in life including cancer.
Annual vetting with vaccinations is around $150-200 per cat. Urgent, surgical, or dental care can be between $500-$2,000+