June is National Adopt-A-Cat month, but any month is a great time to add a new feline to your family. Cat adoption comes with responsibility, though, and there are some things to consider and do before bringing a new cat home.

Once you decide Adopting a Cat or Kitten is the right choice for you and your family, consider adopting two. Having more than one cat gives both kitties a playmate, and you receive twice as much unconditional love and joy.

Also, consider the Advantages of Adopting an Adult Cat. If you decide to adopt an adult cat, here are some tips and FAQs.

If you are adding to your feline crew, here is the method we’ve always used for Introducing a New Cat into a Multi-Cat Household and it’s never failed us yet.

Make sure you have a veterinarian chosen before your new cat comes home. Make an appointment as soon as you can to have your new kitty checked out. Follow-up on any vaccinations your cat needs. Also, be sure to get a copy of any medical records the rescue or shelter has for your new kitty and take that to your first vet appointment.

Once you decide to adopt a cat or kitten, you will need supplies. Be sure to purchase these supplies before you bring your new kitty home.

Here is a list of some of the items you need or should consider getting:

• Cat Carrier - for more info: Choosing a Cat Carrier
  
• Cat Food and Treats - for more info: Choosing a Cat Food
  
• Food bowl
  
• Water bowl - for more info: Why Cats Need Water
  
• Litter box and scooper - for more info: Booda Dome Cleanstep Cat Box - Review
  
• Cat Litter - for more info: World’s Best Cat Litter - Review
  
• Cat Brush
  
• Scratching Post (Optional, but recommended for inside cats.)
  
• Cat Toys - for more info: Household Cat Toys and Affordable Gifts for Cats
  
• Collar and ID Tag, or Microchip (Especially important for cats that go outside.)

You might be wondering why a cat bed isn’t in the list above. My cats typically sleep wherever they want - with us, on the couch, on top of a crushed paper bag, on the floor, in their cat condo, or just wherever they are. If you want to get your new kitty a special cat bed, feel free to do so. Just be prepared in case he or she chooses to sleep elsewhere.

Bringing a new cat or kitten into your family is a big responsibility, but it can be one of the best decisions you ever make. Just be sure it’s the right thing for you and your family, and the right time. Your new cat will depend on you for love and care. Make sure you can provide for him or her, both emotionally and financially, before taking the cat adoption plunge.

Cat (pet) ownership is like nothing else. The love and joy our cats have brought us is truly priceless, and I don’t think I could survive in this world without my precious kitties.

Lastly, and most important, once you decide to adopt - enjoy your precious new family member!

© Melissa Knoblett-Aman

Adopting Cats and Kittens: A Care and Training Guide -- Buy from Amazon

Booda Dome Cleanstep Cat Box, Titanium -- Buy from Amazon