Before you get your first cat...

Part 1: Consider These Questions Before Getting a Cat

So you think you might want to get a cat, and don't know where to start. You no doubt have dozens of questions running through your mind: "Should I get a male or a female, a kitten or an older cat?" "I'd really like a purebred (name your favorite breed), but maybe I should adopt a mixed breed instead." This tutorial helps answer those questions, as well as a few you haven't thought of.

Am I Ready for a Cat?

Think seriously about this important step, which is much like entering into a marriage. Bringing a cat into your family should be a lifelong commitment, so give it serious thought. A good place to start is by understanding that no one truly owns a cat. Cats are sentient beings, and your cat (should you decide to welcome one into your home) deserves to be a family member rather than a "collectible."

Here are some questions to ask yourself and other family members - you all should share the commitment to make it work.

What Kind of Cat Should I Get?

You may have some preconceived notions that you want a particular breed of cat, or that you want a kitten instead of an adult kitty. But before that important decision, do some homework. Like life itself, there are many factors involved in choosing a cat, some of which you may never have considered. Here's the help you need in making that decision.

Where Do I Look for a Cat?

There are many possibilities with attendant pros and cons. Our adoption guide offers facts about the most popular sources for getting a new cat, and advice on two places you should avoid at all costs.

All right! You've done your homework, and you're fully prepared (you think) to become a new cat parent. You've chosen your first cat or kitten (or more appropriately, he or she has chosen you), and you're just waiting for the details to settle so you can bring your new baby home. You've only just begun, though.

This is the first lesson of a two-course series of lessons on "Getting a New Cat." After completing this series of lessons, be sure to continue to the next series on "Your New Cat," which will give you all the help you need in shopping for your new cat, making your home "cat-safe," and the information you'll need on getting him off with a good start in his new home, as a family member for life.