Kitten versus Cat

Now that you've decided to adopt, how do you find the right age of cat for you?

Kitten

When it comes to adopting a cat, many people tend to choose kittens. Kittens are just so small and so irresistibly cute that they tend to be the first to leave a shelter. Kittens can be adopted as young as 8 weeks old. When you start with a kitten, you’re starting with a “clean slate” and you’re given the opportunity to see your cat grow. Kittens unfortunately, are very high energy; they tend to run up and down hallways, fight each other (if you have two), and jump on house furniture. They are very, very high energy, and may not be the right fit for someone who prefers a more quiet lifestyle. Young kittens, especially, need constant supervision. They will bite electrical cords, dance on the kitchen counters (including the stove top!), and jump on drapes. A lot of times, they will knock over precious objects on shelves. Kitten-proofing a home is a necessity!

• You get to be there for your cat's growth process.
• Kittens can be irresistibly cute.
• High Youthfulness and energy!

• Kittens are like babies and can be very time consuming.
• Kittens may be too rambunctious.
• Kittens are nocturnal - which can be a problem when you're trying to sleep!

Cat

When you adopt an adult cat, you are truly saving a life. Kittens are always the first to be adopted, and a cat’s chances for being adopted decrease greatly with age. Sometimes adult cats can live in shelters for up to a year before finding a home. Older cats who make great companions are sometimes euthanized because of their older age. When you adopt an adult cat, you know the personality of the cat you are taking home. They are more predictable, calm, and will most likely crawl up with you on your bed and sleep at night.

• You're saving a life.
• Cats are predictable.
• Adult cats are more independent.

• You may feel like you're missing out on the "clean slate" experience.
• Lack of youthfulness - you may think you just have a lazy cat.

Which is right for you?

The age of cat you select should be based on your lifestyle. If you have young children in your home, it is better to get an adult cat. Children, especially those under 6, tend to move quickly and hug pets; this can startle younger kittens. Also, kids can accidentally hurt a small kitten. Adult cats are more likely to tolerate children and less likely to be injured.

If you like a quiet lifestyle, work outside the home for extended period of time (or like to travel over the long weekends), consider getting an adult cat as well since they are more capable of being independent without human supervision. Senior citizens are often unprepared or find it very difficult to deal with a kitten’s energy level, and will find that a calm adult or senior cat best suit their lifestyle.