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I don't have a cat but am interested in getting one. What should I think about before making my decision?
I am a teenager, (possibly) going off to college in a few years and I wonder if I should commit to a cat that I might have to get rid of.
Of course, I want to adopt from a shelter of some sort. Breeders are expensive and pointless when you can find a lovely cat who needs a home by going to petsmart or something.
I don't spend a lot of time away from home. I'm a homebody. I want a little fury friend! Do you think I should commit to a pet right now?
Asked by
Member 852425
on Jul 7th 2009
in Choosing the Right Pet
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No. If you are going away to college and will possibly have to get rid of the cat in a few years, please do not subject a cat to that kind of future. It is a cruel thing to do to an animal just so you can have a pet for a few years. Unless you can guarantee that a family member can keep the cat while you are away, you should wait until after you finish school to get any pets.
Allie
answered on 7/7/09.
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Although it may sound like we are prejudiced against adopting to young adults, Allie and I are exactly on the same page. The rescue organization I volunteered with had a policy against adopting to anyone under the age of 18. Young adults, even if "homebodies", are typically very busy organizing their futures. More often than not, it would be difficult to realize those plans for the future with a cat in the picture. Many apartments today still do not allow pets. Unfortunately, on the other hand, young adults can make some of the best pet owners. Your first avenue should be to discuss all options with your parents or the adult in your life. They absolutely must be on board with adding a cat to your household, even if you don't go off to school. Cats are expensive, need vet care and much socialization to be good feline citizens. Because many people don't realize this, our shelters are full of unwanted animals, cats and dogs.
Izadore (Izzie)
answered on 7/7/09.
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I agree with what the others have said. IF you have someone that can be there for the cat while you are away, maybe get one...... but please do not do that unless you are sure. Animals form strong bonds with their owners, and it would be hard on you and hard on the cat too.
Perhaps you could consider volunteering at a shelter? No, it would not be like owning your own cat, but you would be able to spend time with cats and play with them. Or maybe you could foster a cat through a rescue?
Cleopatra
answered on 7/7/09.
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NO, you should not get yourself a cat.
A pet is a lifetime committment. They are not something to pass the time with until you decide they are no longer needed or wanted. It is unfair and confusing for the cat when you decide to rehome him/her.
Enjoy college and then get yourself a forever friend when you are settled into your adult life.
Minuit AKA Miss Meany
answered on 7/7/09.
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I remember being a very responsible care taker of my pet when I was a teenager. I think fostering a cat that needs your help would be a wonderful opportunity to have a pet and help the animal community.
Also, I was lucky enough to have parents that would help pay for the vet bills since my part time highscool job could not cover all the expenses.
Pet friendly apartments are out there but they usually require a Pet Deposit and are often not at the budget rentals... more luxury types of apartments. If you do end up getting a cat, you may want to keep it an indoor one so that it adjusts easier when you move it into your college apartment.
I think you're very smart to be posting your questions and doing your cat research before you ultimately decide. :)
Natto
answered on 7/11/09.
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