Buying a cat - tips and advice

What to think about before buying a cat

Choosing a cat breed

Once you have decided to buy a cat, you may be thinking about whether you want to buy a purebred cat or a domestic cat. In a purebred cat, particular characteristics have been bred for a long time and these characteristics may be easier to predict than in a domestic cat, where the origin may be unknown. 

Purebred cats may have been bred with a specific goal, for example, to fit as an indoor cat or to look a certain way, but certain breed-related diseases can come with a purebred cat. Research the particular breed you are interested in before your purchase. 

Find your new family member

There are lots of places to find your cat, you can find a breeder, answer an ad or go to a rescue shelter.  

Buying a kitten

To those of you who are thinking of buying a kitten, there are a number of things you should consider. Visit the kittens to form your own opinion of how they act. They must be clean with clear eyes, clean ears and show no signs of diarrhoea or the like. Ask to meet the mother, preferably the father as well if possible, to see what they look like and what their temperament seems to be like.

When it is time to bring the kitten home, the breeder should have drawn up a purchase contract that both parties must agree on and sign. The kitten must be vet checked, vaccinated and dewormed. You should receive instructions on when the next vaccination and deworming is due, as well as food and diet advice.

You might want to consider kitten insurance too for peace of mind.

Getting a rescue?

Thinking of getting a rescue cat? There are plenty of homeless cats that have been taken care of by various cat shelters. The good thing about an adult rescue is you can experience their adult temperament first-hand before you bring them home.

Buying a second cat?

Thinking of getting another cat? It is not always completely problem-free when the new family member comes home. Research the best way to introduce another cat to your home and introduce them gradually.

How do you live?

How you live is also an important factor. For example, if you have a small or cramped space temporarily, it's best to wait until you are settled elsewhere.

Also consider what kind of area you live in if you want to be able to let your cat out. If you live near major busy roads, the risk of your cat being hit is of course greater. If you live in an apartment with a balcony, you should net the balcony so that the cat cannot fall down and injure itself badly or, in the worst case, die.

You'll want to make sure your home environment is suitable for a cat before you bring them home.

Help with cat sitting

If you travel a lot, you need to make sure you have someone to care for your cat. It's ideal to have someone you know visit at least twice per day to give it food, water and company. Otherwise, a good cat kennel could possibly be an option.

How much time do you spend at home? That is one of the most important questions you should start asking yourself. Because even though cats aren't pack animals, and don't require as much companionship as a dog, they don't want to spend their whole lives alone at home.

Bringing your new cat home

Tips for a safe cat purchase

Once you've found your cat, it is time to bring them home. In the midst of all the happiness, it can be easy to forget important things. Make sure the cat is vet-checked, vaccinated, dewormed and microchipped before they come home.

Take out an insurance

It is important to take out insurance as soon as possible after you get your cat home. If you buy an older cat that is already insured, it is best to take over the existing insurance.

If you buy a small kitten, it is important to insure it as soon as possible so that nothing happens before it is insured for veterinary care. 

When you get your cat home

Get your home ready

When the cat finally moves in, it is good to have accessories and equipment ready at home. So that you don't miss anything important, we have listed things that are good to have when you get your cat or kitten home.

What do I need to have at home for my new cat?

5 important pieces of advice before buying a cat

• Think about whether you have the time, money and opportunity to get a cat
• Contact a breeder, advertiser or cat shelter 
• Go to a cat store and buy all the accessories a cat needs (food, food and water bowl, litter box, scratching board, basket, collar and name tag or leash and harness, claw clippers, transport cage, toys and more).
• Think about what insurance the cat should have
• Make sure your cat is neutered at the appropriate age, ID marked and regularly vaccinated

Plan for success with your new cat

In addition to visiting your chosen cat several times to get to know them, it can be good to read about what cats need, how they work and where they come from. This can help your cat settle into their new home faster, reduce the stress that a move entails and create a good relationship.

We wish you the best of luck in your choice of cat and hope that you and your future friend have a great time together!