Choosing a kitten can be serious business. Our ten year old cat, Sassie, was carefully chosen after months of searching. When we were told she had a “weird personality,” we didn’t believe it. Although she’s a beloved member of the family, she is decidedly different.
Our next cat was an accidental adoption. My daughter arrived home one afternoon with her hands behind her back. “Mom,” she said in a wheedling tone, “We have to keep it!” While playing tennis with friends, she saw someone leave a box by the dumpster. It was a scorching hot day, over 90 degrees, and the kids couldn’t understand why the box was moving. When they went to investigate they discovered a box of tiny kittens. Everyone took a kitten home with them.
Snuffy quickly captured our hearts. She was loving, sweet, and loud. Her meow could be heard all over the house. Everything was perfect for the first four weeks after we adopted her. We had planned to take her to the vet for a routine cat care examination when her stomach began to swell. I rushed her to the vet but it was too late. She had an extremely rare disease and had to be put to sleep. We were devastated.
After we recovered from our grief, we adopted a kitten from the high kill animal shelter. When we adopted her, we found she has allergies and licks bald spots on her fur. She’ll be on a weekly dose of steroids the rest of her life to help her allergies. Mitzie was supposed to be our last cat. Two cats are plenty. No more cats for us. Then, I received a frantic phone call from my daughter. Someone had dumped a box of kittens onto a busy road and they were getting hit by cars. She and a friend managed to dodge cars, chase and catch this one.
My advice for would be pet owners: taking care of cats requires love, patience, and lots of work. I’m a firm believer in spaying or neutering. For anyone unable to do so, try to find a loving family who will adopt the cat or take the animal to a no kill shelter.
Do you have a favorite pet or any pet care tips to share with us?
As of yesterday, I have one kitty now, Mia. My 9 month old kitten passed away suddenly yesterday morning. My fiance and I only had him for about 5 months, but he was the best kitty ever! Our other kitty is about 10 months and she is starting to warm up to us a lot now.
I would love a cat but I am allergic 🙁 Instead I have a dog, bird, fish and some lizards. I have always wanted a cat though!
Adorable. I really think the newest kitten is particularly cute. I don’t have any cats or dogs at the moment but if the circumstances were right I’d adopt one.
Aw my heart breaks for the one you lost.
That are such sweet cats! I can’t understand how people can dump them. They are such loving animals and you are fantastic to rescue them.
What cuties!
OK I’m not a cat person but my neighbors are. Adopting pets or rescue pets can be so difficult. I have nothing but respect for people who do.
I have 8 cats, all rescues. Please make sure to have new cats tested for feline leukemia and FIV (feline AIDS) before you expose them to cats who are already in your household. These diseases can be fatal.
Aww..poor kitties! I’ll never understand how people can be so cruel to a living creature.
What is the new baby’s name?
Awww, your Ragdoll is sooo cute! We’ve had two Ragdoll cats and they are my favorites! So snuggly but full of adventure and mischief!