Where To Find Your New Kitten
Getting a new kitten is a very exciting time. It is easy to get swept up and take the first kitten you see. It is important, however, to find the right kitten for your family. In order to do that, you need to look in the right places. Here is some information on where to find your new kitten.
Everyone has seen the posters up at the grocery store or the ad in the newspaper offering free kittens to a good home. This can be a quick and easy way to find a free kitten, but there are some drawbacks to this option. Usually, this is a rescued litter of kittens or someone's female cat unexpectedly became pregnant. Because of this, it is difficult and sometimes impossible to know the parents. This can be bad because you don't know what types of temperament or possible health problems to expect. On the other hand, you are helping to give a kitten a loving new home. Just be aware of the potential setbacks. Most of the time these kittens have not been given their first shots or been dewormed, so that will be an additional expense for you.
Another popular place to get a new kitten is the animal shelter. The unknown temperament and health issues are the same as the free kittens, but there can be some perks at the shelter. For one thing, you will be saving a cat's life if your shelter still euthanizes. Shelters will also usually have given them their shots and dewormed them at a discounted price. They will also give you a discount on spaying an neutering. If you are adopting an older cat or kitten, they may already be fixed so that is one less step for you. The cost is smaller than at a pet store or a breeder, usually around $55 dollars. Your local shelter is a great place to find your new kitten.
If you want a purebred kitten, it is best to go directly to a breeder. You will be able to get background information about the parents, the kitten's health care, and papers to register your new pet. The cost will be significantly higher at a breeder, but you will get more information and can be assured of your new kitten's heritage. Just be sure to choose a reputable breeder.
You can also get your new kitten at a pet store. You will pay more than a shelter and these kittens are often simply strays that they sell in their stores. Some pet stores do sell purebred kittens, but you may get a better deal at a breeder since the pet store prices are inflated to cover overhead. The pet store will usually have given them their first shots as well.
There are many places where you can find your new kitten. Your family's particular needs will dictate the best place to get your new pet. Weigh the pros and cons of each choice before you make your decision, and enjoy your beautiful new kitten!