How to Get a Cat as a Teen

Cats are mysterious creatures. One minute they’re begging for you to open their favorite can of food, winding a path between your legs, and the next minute they’re perched on the windowsill, soaking up the sun. Although cats are independent creatures, they still require some care.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Discuss the idea of getting a cat or kitten with your parents. They will probably require that you feed the cat, clean its litter box regularly and promise to spend time with it. Before you agree to their terms, make sure you are ready to accept responsibility for a new cat.

2. Consider your plans after high school. Most colleges don’t allow pets in the dorms. Ask your parents if they're willing to care for your cat while you’re away at school.

3. Visit your local Humane Society to view the current cat population up for adoption. Adopting a cat costs a little money but you will be offering a home to an animal that otherwise might not get one. A cat or kitten you get from the Humane Society will already have its first set of shots and will be sterilized unless it is still a kitten. In that case you will sign a contract to have it sterilized when it is older.

4. Watch the newspaper for classified ads offering free cats or kittens. Arrange to visit and inspect the litter to see if one is right for you. Cats come in all colors and coat styles. Keep in mind that longhaired cats require extra care and grooming to prevent mats from forming in their fur.

5. Purchase cat supplies before you bring your new cat or kitten home. Food and a litter box are essential; a special bowl, a cat bed, lightweight cat toys and grooming tools are nice optional items.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan to care for a cat for his or her entire lifespan, an average of 12 to 15 years.
• Don’t put a collar on your cat. Cats squeeze in small places and a collar presents a hazard because it may catch on a fence or branch.