a Cat

[cloak]

I've never had a cat before. A couple dogs though over the years. One of my neighbors has a cat, along with 6 kids, and I'm not sure if this cat has a home. It's always around the house and both my father and I give it some attention. Any time we see it were talking to it, petting it etc. She's such a sweetheart. So friendly. She's not allowed in the house, but she does sleep in the garage. (my car actually) Potty trained. Anyways, I would like to let the cat in the house, but is there anything I need to know beforehand? She is fixed, but what about fleas, shots etc? Not trying to rob this from my neighbors, they seem to have enough to worry about. (young kids, pulling the cats tail etc, I've seen it) Any help would be appreciated. Thank you. :)

 

[Potatohead]

I'd be careful. If you let it into the home it will no doubt start planning your untimely demise until it takes over completely.

 

[Mike from TN]

Cats are wonderful animal companions. If you’re serious about keeping it and making it a “family member”, you should first have it checked out by a veterinarian. Basic blood work to test for FIV/FELV and have them prescribe a PRESCRIPTION flea and tick medication. If it’s been living outside, it’s most likely been eating wildlife ( mice, birds, etc. ) so it should also be de-wormed.
Like mentioned above, be prepared to become a “human slave”! LOL!
I applaud you for wanting to give it a home, especially in the cold weather. ;)

 

[cloak]

What do you mean by being a "human slave?" If we want the cat out it's out. It's not Aiptasia. Confused...

Thank you for the information about being de-wormed though She has brought back a prize. (dead dragon fly, right by the door) Don't think the neighbors are feeding it, but we have. (IAMS, the orange bag))

 

[Campfiregirl]

If you are ready to have an owner go for it lol!!! Kidding aside, cat's are awesome lovey creatures with weird habits, like sleeping all day and wanting to play at night. Just be ready to train it to your schedule. We have a very vocal cat that I rescued from the humane society, she's quite annoying in the morning. She meows at us until one of us walks her to her food bowl. Funny huh?

 

[cloak]

Thank you all for the information. :)

This cat is cool... Were treating just like our old dog Sadie. The obedience isn't there, but nothing to complain about. (being an outside cat now) She is sneaky though. When you open the door to the garage she'll sneak in. Goes and sits right under the Christmas tree. A natural setting I guess. My father is pretty sweet on this girl too. He's about 77 and misses the dog. This cat may have filled the void. I dig it too, but I just don't know enough about cats to give it free reign yet. Thanks again.

BTW, any other information you have would be appreciated.

 

[Auquanut]

If we want the cat out it's out.

You may want to amend that statement to "If the cat wants out, it's out." Cats aren't like dogs. They're very independent. Where a dog tends to be focused on you and wanting to please you, cats tend to be more focused on what's in their best interest. Not to say that they're not very affectionate and attentive pets, they just approach life and the home in a completely different way. Sounds like you've found a wonderful new addition to the family. Enjoy!

 

[cloak]

You may want to amend that statement to "If the cat wants out, it's out." Cats aren't like dogs. They're very independent. Where a dog tends to be focused on you and wanting to please you, cats tend to be more focused on what's in their best interest. Not to say that they're not very affectionate and attentive pets, they just approach life and the home in a completely different way. Sounds like you've found a wonderful new addition to the family. Enjoy!

Thank you for the reply, but I have to disagree when it comes down to "if we want the cat out it's out."

If I want this cat out of my house it's out... Whether or not I need to chase it down or tempt it with some treats, it's out... Termites are one story, a cat is something different. Thank you though.