hey all! I really reallyThis is a discussion thread · 5 replies Anonymous: hey all! I really really want to get a cat as a pet. I've never got one before so I really need your help with some stuff.Firstly, I wont be home for 8-9 hours a day, 5 days in a week as I go to school and my mum and dad work. so do you think it's okay to get a cat? also, how old should it be and what breeds do you recommend for a beginner like me? Any help would be appreciated! Thank you! Hi, sorry to say this but cats need interaction so leaving a cat that is a sole pet alone for 8 hours every day is a bit too much in my opinion. A cat can end up having bad behavior. What's possible in your case is getting two cats so they can play with each other when no one is around. I don't know if that's fine with your parents but that's the way the cats will be much happier and you are less likely to have behavior problems with them (although there's never 100% guarantee). We had a topic about what pairs (male and male, female and female, or male and female) get on better and how to introduce two cats if they're new to each other so you may want to have a look at it: http://mysmelly.com/Archive/IntroducingANewFriend/cjmpx/post.htm Another option is having a pet sitter if you can afford it. I hope it helps. :) It really depends on the cat. all breeds and cats are different and although all cats require attention and care some need it more then others. As for a specific breed since this is your first cat I wouldn't get a purebred or decide on a specific breed, what I recommend you do is visit your local animal shelter and choose a cat there, go for a 7-8 months or older. with younger kittens it's difficult to determine how they will be and since you won't be home for 8-9 hours a day It's best to choose a cat that will fit best with your lifestyle. I know the first thought when getting a cat is wanting a purebred 3 month old kitten but that's not recommended for someone who isn't experienced and especially someone who doesn't have enough time. Another thing to think of before getting any animal is your age, I'm not sure if by school you mean high school or college but at that age nothing is sure and you can never know what's going to happen when you finish high school and go to college or when you finish college. Cats can live for up to 15 years and even more so you need to think about that as well. Anonymous: with placid cats like persians that will probably sleep all day long while you're away it may be easier but active cats will ruin your house out of boredom if there's no one to entertain them. you will have to look for a very very calm and placid cat. probably also an older cat because kittens have more energy and need more attention.I'm sorry but still I am sure it's not good to leave a cat alone for 8-9 hours 5 days per week even if the cat is one of those who need less attention... Anonymous: I think personally because you lead a busy life at this stage with work and school it would be best not to have any pets unless your going to put the time into their interest. If you just want them part time, again your not doing any favors for the cat and yourself. So go and enjoy your life while your young.When your retired then think about getting yourself a cat by then you will appreciate each other better All the best. | Have a question? People are waiting to help. Interesting stuff Related forum topics:I want more pet stories!Signs of a true cat loverCat resolutionsHow to get rid of too much cat hair in the house?My cat hates the cameraHow to get rid of strong cat smell?Transportation of a nervous cat?Cats demand all our attentionDog pees all over the houseIs neutering really necessaryCat colorsCat RescueAdulterous cat ;) - what can I do/can I help... |