Cats Rule in Spring

They’re irresistible. Big eyes and cute faces tug at your heart. Cuddle. Snuggle. Purr. Dogs may be man's best friend but in America - cats rule. They have replaced their canine counterparts as American's favorite pet.

Looking to welcome a feline friend into your home? Good timing. Spring through summer is kitten time at shelters.

Cats, like all pets, are great for your health. Pet owners typically live longer, healthier lives. But, to get the health benefits of having a pet, you need to interact with your pet. Like any good relationship, pet ownership requires work.

Cats need more than fresh food, water and a clean litter pan. They need daily attention. It can be play, petting, grooming or conversation but it needs to be every day.

People often choose a cat over a dog because they think cats are better for busy people. Indoor cats do not have to go outside and they sleep most of the day while their owners are gone.

When their owners are home, however, most cats will demand attention. Plan to set aside at least 30 minutes a day of interactive attention.

Cats who do not receive the socialization and attention they need can develop really bad attitudes. They will find the most unique and peculiar ways to demonstrate their unhappiness.

Here are some things you should consider before choosing your pet. Kittens require more work since they need extra socialization and training. Cats are more settled but may have habits you don’t like.

What kind of homeowner are you? With the exception of the hairless breed of cats, all cats shed. The more you groom them the less they shed but they will shed. Shedding affects more than your furnishings. You will also end up with pet hair on your clothes.

People can be allergic to cats. If you have allergies, discuss getting a cat with your doctor. Medications for you and special shampoos for your cat can give you some relief. Many people with allergies have cat.

Keep the pet out of your sleeping area. Change your pillowcases before going to bed. Keep pet fur away from your nose and face. Don't hold the cat up to your face. Wash your hands after petting your cat.

You will need to cat-proof your home. There is nothing too high or too difficult for a cat to reach.

Cats love to explore. The only sure way to keep dangerous or delicate items out of reach is to put them behind closed cabinets, drawers or doors. Even magnetic door closures may be opened by a persistent feline.

Cats need to scratch on items to keep the pads and claws of their paws healthy. If you don't provide an appropriate scratching area, the cat will scratch on anything and everything.

Cats require medical attention. Regular medical costs for cats are usually under $100 annually. Some companies offer insurance to cover extraordinary expenses should your pet fall ill.

One danger people may not think of is the window. Many animals have died or been injured after falling our of upper story windows. In the wild, cats do not live in high-rises. You will need to put special grates on your windows to protect your pet. Do not rely on screens.

Neuter your cat. Not neutering your cat will cause you a number of problems. There is nothing more insistent than a female cat wanting some male companionship. There is nothing more persistent than potential feline suitors.

Neutering is the responsible thing to do. Each year, hundreds of thousands of cats and kittens are put to sleep.

If you think your one cat will not make a difference, you are wrong. Cats can breed up to three times a year. One female cat and all the offspring of her offspring over the course of ten years can add up to as many as 80 million cats. You can see the problem.

If you need help selecting a breed, try the American Cat Fanciers Association website www.acfacat.com.

Take time to enjoy your cat. They have personalities and preferences. They can and will demonstrate loving affection if given your loving attention.

Photography by Lou Page.

This column first appeared in print in the Greene County Record in April 2003.

Read Boomer Journeys and other articles by Alex Carrier in the Greene County Record.