How About A Cat?

by Barry KuKes

It is kitten season once again in the greater Daytona Beach area, so if you have been thinking about getting a new kitten or cat to keep you company, now would be a great time.
Many seniors switch from a dog to a cat as a pet due to increased limitations on their physical being.

As we age, we aren’t quite as flexible as we were just 10-years ago. Sometimes walking that large Golden Retriever can be a challenge, especially if Mr. Taunting Squirrel crosses your path. It only takes one time to fall flat on your face or your behind to send you the message that you need to downsize on the size of your pet.

Cats make great pets for many reasons. They are very self-sufficient and can be left alone for many hours, and in some cases, for a couple of days. They use a litter box, so they don’t need to be walked. If given an ample supply of food and water, you can usually go away for the weekend, and the cat will be fine. You can’t do this with a dog.

Cats can be very aloof and independent. Sometimes they want your attention, and sometimes they don’t. A cat will let you know when it’s okay to pet and hold them. They will also let you know when they have had enough.

Cats have claws and need to scratch. Most cats can be trained to use scratching pads and posts. Do not declaw a cat. This is very inhumane, and it would be like you cutting off the first digit of each of your fingers. Cats can be taught to leave your furniture alone, but you need to provide them with alternative options for scratching.

With proper care and lots of love, many cats can live to be in their twenties. You may think a ten-year-old cat may be too old to adopt when in fact, that is a great age, especially if you have concerns about outliving your cat. If you are in your 80s would a 12-week-old kitten be the best choice for a new pet? Maybe not, but a ten-year-old cat might be a great choice. Of course, the choice of pet is entirely up to you. Just use some common sense when making your adoption decision.

Lastly, please adopt, don’t shop. There are many cats and kittens in need of loving homes. Come meet your new best friend today!

Barry KuKes is the Community Outreach Director for the Halifax Humane Society. You can reach Barry at 386. 274.4703, ext. 320, or BarryK@hali faxhumanesociety.org