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  • What Breed of Cat Should I Get?

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    I recently wrote an article because clients are always asking what breed of cat they should get. However, as I pointed out in that article, plenty of other factors are more important than breed. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out right here.

    That being said, many people want a certain breed of cat. Here are some common breeds you may be considering as you look for your next pet.

    Domestic Short-Hair (and Medium and Long-Hair). 

    Also known as the common cat, these cats are found all over the United States. They are often found on farms and homes throughout the United States.  They are easy to find (especially in spring) and can be cheaper than some of the other breeds that we will discuss.

    That being said, just because they are cheap (or free) doesn’t necessarily mean they will stay this way. I wrote an article about free kittens that you may want to check out before you head to the nearest farm for your next kitten.

    Persians.

    These cats are popular for their fluffy hair and round heads. They seem to be very calm and loving and can be a great addition to a family looking for a laid-back cat.

    Ragdolls. 

    Ragdolls are often known as “puppy cats” because of their dog-like temperament. They are very friendly, and it is easier to train than some of the other cats.

    Maine coons. 

    These cats are the largest domestic cats that you can find. They are very affectionate and friendly. They make a good pet for those looking for a smart cat that is easy to train.

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    Siamese. 

    These cats can be great companions because they are very social. They love attention and are very active.

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    That being said, it is often better not to be stuck on a certain breed of cat. Finding one that works well with your family and lifestyle is more important. You may find that a local kitten is going to be better for your family than a fancy breed of cat that you can find online. That being said, the shelter is also full of pure-bred cats that need someone to give them a chance at a better life!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • What Breed Of Cat Should I Get?

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    One of the most common questions we receive from clients is what breed of cat we recommend they get. However, they should be asking What kind of cat should I get? It is often more beneficial to consider your lifestyle and the temperament of a cat rather than focusing on a specific breed.

    Here are some things that you need to think about before you stop and get the first cute kitten that you see.

    You should consider the size of the cat that you are going to get. 

    Though most cats are between ten and fifteen pounds, there are many females that are much smaller than that! There are also some giant breeds, such as Maine Coons, which can weigh up to 25 pounds.

    You may also want to consider their hair type. 

    Though many domestic cats have short hair, you can find long-haired cats and even ones that are hairless. Don’t forget about all the cats who have coats in between short, long, and hairless.

    Just remember that, if you get a long-haired cat, you will need to spend plenty of time grooming it. A hairless cat may also require some extra attention to maintain its skin’s health.

    As a result, one of the most important factors to consider is how active you want your cat to be. 

    Are you looking for a young kitten that wants to be played with all the time? Do you have the time and energy to play after a long and hard day at work?

    Or is an older cat who is happy to be sitting beside you on the couch at night a better fit? If you are thinking that you don’t want to go through the kitten stage, you may want to look at a shelter for a cat that is a little (or a lot) older. 

    I recently wrote an article about adopting older cats. If you are interested, you can check it out here.

    This also raises the question whether you have sufficient time to spend at home with a cat. There are many cats that would be happy to have the house to themselves, while others need more attention and companionship. Young kittens require even more attention to train them properly.

    If you have frequent guests over, you may want a cat that is as social as you. If you get a cat that runs scared when you have company, it will spend a lot of time hiding. If your cat enjoys greeting everyone and spending time in the same room as him or her, you should be just fine.

    Choosing the right cat for your lifestyle is more important than the breed itself. You need to determine whether a new kitten will fit into your lifestyle. Do you have the time to train a new kitten? And play with him or her all the time to help with the extra energy a kitten has?

    If you are always on the go, you might want to get an older cat who would be happy to be home alone. That way, when you do get home, he or she will be happy to sit beside you on the couch instead of needing all of your attention.

    If you are always having friends over, you don’t want a cat that is going to be scared to come out when you have visitors. That will be way too stressful for him or her (and you)! Take your time, figure out what you really want, and then go find the right (perfect) cat for you and your family.

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Reasons To Adopt an Older Cat

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    Most people think about cute and cuddly kittens when they think of adding a cat to their household. However, that isn’t their only option. Many adult cats and older ones need a good home. In fact, getting a cat that is a little older may be the best option for you and your family.

    Here are some reasons why you might consider adopting an older cat instead of a kitten.

    Older cats aren’t as much trouble as kittens. 

    Most of the time, older cats already know how to use the litter box, so you won’t have to worry bout accidents in your home. That being said, if your older cat is urinating outside the litter box, you should have them checked out.

    Kittens are also very mischievous. They will jump on your sofas, beds, and even countertops. They may knock things off the counter, making a huge mess. Not only that, but they may also climb with their nails, putting holes in your furniture, and pulling down your curtains.

    As a cat ages, it tends to become calmer. Your older cat may play for a little while, but spends most of its time sleeping. He or she may simply enjoy spending time in your lap, rather than racing around the house.

    Older cats are better at keeping themselves clean. 

    Kittens don’t spend as much time grooming themselves as adults do, so you may have to do it for them. You may need to groom your kitten daily to ensure it is as clean as possible.

    Teething isn’t pleasant for most owners. 

    When a kitten is teething, it will bite and chew on anything to relieve the pain. This could be you, your furniture, or anything else you have lying around. They may chew things like wire, which could be quite harmful. You won’t have to worry about this stage when you get an older cat.

    Older cats are often better when you have small children. 

    Too many kittens get hurt when they are handled by young children. They can also be more reactive, potentially harming your children in the same way. They may not want to sit still to be held and petted, so they may use their claws to get away. Older cats may be more likely to lie around and get petted.

    They may also need you more. 

    When most people go for a new cat, they go for a kitten. Even kittens in shelters get adopted faster than adults and even older cats. Many older cats will spend the rest of their lives in shelters, never finding a good home. So, if you have room in your home and heart, you may just want to consider adopting an older cat who needs you!

    Though you may want an adorable kitten, you may want to think twice before taking it home. There are many adults and older cats that may be better suited to your home and life. Plus, they usually aren’t as much trouble as some of their young counterparts. By now, they usually know to stay off the counters and won’t rip around your house like a hurricane. They may enjoy just sitting by you.

    This often makes them better pets for children. You won’t have to worry about your children dropping or sitting on a small kitten. You also won’t have to worry as much about the claws coming out! They also need you. Most people walk right by the older cats when they go to shelters. However, they deserve a chance, just like everyone else!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Cat Water Fountain Benefits (and Why I Won’t Go Back)

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    Worried your cat isn’t drinking enough water? You’re definitely not alone. A lot of cat parents deal with this—especially since many cats are surprisingly picky about how they hydrate. Still water in a regular bowl often doesn’t cut it. And when cats don’t get enough moisture, it can lead to dehydration, urinary tract issues, or even kidney problems over time. It’s one of those sneaky little health concerns that can go unnoticed—until it turns into a vet visit.

    That’s where a cat fountain can make a big difference. Instead of stagnant water sitting in a bowl all day, a fountain keeps it moving and fresh—just the way most cats prefer. The gentle stream mimics running water in nature, which cats are naturally drawn to. It’s like flipping a switch: suddenly your cat is way more interested in drinking regularly, and you can feel better knowing they’re staying hydrated.

    Fountains also come with built-in filters that help remove impurities, hair, and debris, so the water not only looks cleaner—it is cleaner. And if your cat is a bit of a water snob (most are), that fresh taste can be the thing that finally encourages them to drink more throughout the day.

    Another bonus? They’re surprisingly low-maintenance. Most models only need to be topped off every few days and cleaned weekly. Some even come with dishwasher-safe parts to make things easier. No more constant bowl refills or wondering when your cat last drank.

    Product Available on Pet Cube

    If your cat turns up their nose at their water bowl, or you’re simply looking for an easy upgrade to support their long-term health, a fountain might be the game-changer you’ve been looking for. It’s one of those small switches that can have a big impact—and your cat will thank you (probably by drinking more and knocking fewer cups off the table). Hydrated cat = happy cat.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    It is also important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • You Made the Decision, Now What?

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    If your pet is older, you may be starting to face the reality that they aren’t getting any younger. You may even be facing the realization that your pet has a disease that isn’t going to get better. He or she may not be living the best life anymore, and you may be considering making a decision.

    Once you decide to euthanize your pet, you may be wondering what happens next. There may be some things you need to consider as well.

    Are you already facing the decision? Here are some tips to help you through the euthanasia process.

    It is important to make the decision and stick to it. 

    Many pets seem to have a really good day, as soon as you decide that it is time to put him or her to sleep. Let your pet enjoy that day, but don’t put it off too long. He or she may get even worse when the good day ends.

    If you’re struggling with the decision, you may want to read my article, ‘Is It Time to Say Goodbye.’ If you want to check it out, you can read it right here. 

    Figure out what you want to do with your pet’s body. 

    Not only do you need to make the decision, but you also need to determine what to do next. Burying your pet in your backyard may not be an option for you, depending on your life situation, so most clinics offer cremation services.

    You may choose to get your pet’s ashes back, though you may also decide not to. This may come down to cost; however, you may also need to decide what to do with your pet’s ashes. Do you want to share them with someone or keep them with you safely?

    Let everyone say goodbye. 

    You want to make sure that everyone gets a chance to say goodbye before you go to the veterinarian’s office. Some of your family and friends may want a chance to come over and say goodbye before it happens.

    Decide who needs to be there. 

    At the veterinarian’s office, we see it all. There are some pets who only have me by their side during the process, while others bring their whole families. You have to decide who you want in the room when your pet goes to sleep.

    If you are single, you may not want to be alone. Don’t be afraid to ask a family member or friend to go with you. If you have a spouse, he or she may also want to be there, even if your spouse has to take off work. If you have children, you may need to decide whether you want them to be there or not.

    Our veterinarian uses a sedative prior to giving the euthanasia solution. 

    This allows the pet to fully relax before administering the medication to put them to sleep. Some people only stay until their pet is sleeping before they leave. Many people with children allow them to be present until it is time to give the actual medication.

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    Making the decision to end your pet’s suffering can be very difficult. You may want to have a frank conversation with your veterinarian to see where everything stands. He or she may be able to give you some more time with your pet or help you come to the realization that it may be time.

    Then, you need to give yourself time to say goodbye. Don’t forget to consider any family or friends who may also want to spend some time with your pet. You may also have to decide who you want to be with you. Many people have to think long and hard about whether they want their children around. This is a very personal decision, and shouldn’t be taken lightly. It may also depend on your children. Some may want to be there, while others may not.

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    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • The Truth About Free Kittens

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    It is the season for kittens. Everyone around you probably has kittens that they found, and they are trying to find them good homes. While some people feel like they need to charge a rehoming fee (to ensure that they find the right home), others are willing to give them away for free.

    However, it is important that you know, just because your kitten is free, doesn’t mean that it is going to stay that way.

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    You are going to need to take your new kitten to the veterinarian to ensure that he or she is healthy. 

    Kittens need to be seen regularly when they are young. They need multiple rounds of vaccines in order to become properly protected. Even if your kitten is going to stay inside, you are going to need to get your kitten a Rabies shot.

    Then, when they are around six months of age, they should be fixed. This may cost you a few hundred dollars, but it is much healthier for them. It will also keep you from having to deal with any unwanted litter.

    Even if you don’t take your kitten to the veterinarian right away, you are going to have to feed your new kitten. 

    You need to make sure that you feed your new kitten high-quality food. That being said, just because it is expensive doesn’t mean that it is good food. There are many foods out there that are rather expensive that aren’t the best food.

    I don’t want to name names, but our clinic recommends Science Diet and Purina ProPlan. These foods have been around for a long time, and studies show they are reliable.

    Science Diet dry kitten food is a good choice, and it is available on Amazon.

    Product available on Amazon

    Another brand that we recommend is Purina Pro plan. It is a higher quality feed than Purina kitten chow.

    Product available on Amazon

    We also recommend that all cats and kittens eat some canned food to help with their urinary tract. We recommend Friskie’s pate style canned food like the one listed on Amazon below.

    Product available on Amazon

    You also need at least one litter pan and a good quality litter. 

    It is even better if you can provide two litter pans. As you get more cats (and probably will), you want to ensure that you always have at least one more litter box than you have cats. If you have six, you need at least seven or eight pans for all of them to use.

    Plus, most people buy some extras for their new kittens. 

    This may include toys and a bed. Some even buy their kittens outfits and other fun things. Cat trees are also popular things that new kitten owners like to buy.

    Amazon and Chewy have many different cat trees, so that you can find one that will fit into your home, no matter what size you are looking for!

    Product available on Amazon

    Free kittens don’t stay free very long. They need to be seen by a veterinarian rather quickly, in order to get make sure that your kitten is properly vaccinated. Even if you don’t plan on letting your kitten outside, you should ensure he or she gets a Rabies shot as soon as possible. You should also plan on spaying or neutering your new kitten when he or she is six months old.

    Veterinary care isn’t the only cost that you may be dealing with. You are going to want to buy the best food that you can so that your new kitten stays as healthy as possible. You also need to buy litter pans so that he or she has a place to go to the bathroom.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.