#MIDDLEBURY
By Sam Mazzotta
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I’m really excited – my mom has decided we can get a kitten! We’re going to adopt one from the local shelter. Do you have any advice on picking the best cat? – Jaynah and Sherar in Poughkeepsie, New York
DEAR JAYNAH AND SHERAR: First of all, congratulations! It’s exciting to get your first pet. And I’m glad you’re choosing to adopt from a shelter.
While I’ve always liked to say that we don’t pick cats, they pick us, that’s not entirely true. Sometimes it takes a little time to find that perfect fit. With kittens, it’s even harder, because they’re almost universally cute.
When you visit the shelter, ask if you’re allowed to play with the kittens before choosing one, or to observe them in a play area outside of their cages. Note how they interact with each other and with humans. Are they confident or aggressive? Standoffish, or anxious and shy? Will they play with a toy or string that is dangled in front of them?
Note the kittens’ general health. It’s easy to spot a potential problem if a cat is listless, won’t play, has visible sores, shakes its head frequently or has trouble walking. Most shelters are open about a cat’s known health problems. That way potential owners can decide if they want to take on the costs of bringing an adopted cat back to health.
Again, take your time and don’t commit to one kitten immediately. If there are multiple shelters in the area, check them out as well.
And of course, once you’ve found your new friend, be sure to schedule a checkup with a veterinarian to give it the healthiest start with your family.
Send your questions, comments or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.
(c) 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.
