Should You Adopt A Cat?

"I love cats because I enjoy my home; and little by little, they become its visible soul." –Jean Cocteau

The French poet, playwright, and novelist Jean Cocteau captured it perfectly. Cats bring a special presence into any space. Adopt one, and their quiet companionship, quirky personalities, and crazy antics will effortlessly transform a dull, lifeless house into a warm and welcoming home. But before you open your doors and heart to a feline friend, it’s important to consider if adopting a cat is the right choice for you.

The Joys of Feline Companionship

Cats are beloved for their charm. They’re masters of elegance–lazily lounging in a sunbeam or perching regally on the back of a couch. Even when caught mid-groom in their most awkward poses (imagine this: one leg stretched behind their ear while licking their private parts), they still manage to exude grace while giving off an I-don’t-care-what-you-think vibe.

Cats have a way of weaving themselves into the fabric of your daily life. They’ll curl up on your lap during a quiet evening or engage you with their playful curiosity. Their loyal presence is a source of comfort, joy, and laughter. Who can resist a chuckle at a cat’s hilarious zoomies or their endless fascination with an empty box?

Studies also show that owning a cat can have health benefits. Their soothing purrs and companionship ease loneliness and reduce stress and anxiety. For many, adopting a cat means gaining a loyal, loving best friend who’ll be there through life’s fortunes and travails. 

What makes cats unique is their ability to strike a balance between independence and affection. A dog requires your utmost attention. A fish can’t give you hugs and kisses. Cats, in contrast, are self-sufficient enough to thrive on their own for a few hours but affectionate enough to seek you out when they’re ready to share a quiet moment. This blend of autonomy and companionship is part of what makes living with cats so fulfilling.

Are You Ready to Adopt a Cat?

While cats can bring immense joy, adopting one takes a commitment of around 13 years or more. Needless to say, pet adoption is a life-changing decision, one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Think about these questions carefully before you adopt a cat:

1. Do I have time for a cat?

Cats are often seen as low-maintenance pets, but only if you compare them to another pet favorite, the dog. Cats still need time and care. Expect to add these tasks to your routine: feeding, grooming, cleaning the litter box, and visiting the vet. 

Cats won’t complain if you leave them alone for a few hours with their favorite cat food (the typical cat is mostly an independent creature who doesn’t require many hugs), but they also crave interaction and stimulation. If you want to keep them healthy and happy, you should have the time and energy to give them undivided attention. 

2. Do I have the money for a cat?

Owning a cat comes with substantial costs. You’ll need to budget for food, kitty litter, toys, pet care products, grooming tools, and regular veterinary check-ups. Factor in medicines, laboratory fees, vaccinations, pet insurance, and emergency funds. 

You’ll be surprised to know that some pet products and medical fees can be more expensive than human grooming products and hospital visits! This is why most pet parents say adopting a cat is like having a child. Don’t bring one into your home if you can’t afford their care.

3. Do I have space for a cat?

Cats need safe and open spaces to explore, climb, and rest. Observe an outdoor cat, and you’ll see them happily zooming around in the greenery, rushing up and down trees, and crouching stealthily to catch small creatures like butterflies and birds. Small apartments will sometimes suffice, but only if you provide additional spaces like vertical shelves or cat trees. 

Cats also require their own little private kingdoms. Do you have other pets or children? You’ll have to properly train your cat and give it its own quiet space (plus a kitty litter box) to maintain peace and order in your home.

4. Can I commit to a cat?

PetMD says that a cat’s average lifespan is 13-17 years. If they’re lucky, they can live 20 years or more. Some impulsive pet owners adopt a cute kitten, thinking their cat will stay small and healthy forever. They only spoil and give them all the love and care for a few years. However, when their cat becomes older and more sickly, they discard their cat like an old toy. 

Pets aren’t disposable though. Shelters are overflowing and millions of stray cats roam our streets because of irresponsible cat owners who don’t know how to take care of a pet. Think about how your life might change in the coming years and whether you’ll still be able to provide a stable and loving home for your furry friend.

Where to Adopt a Cat?

If you’ve decided to adopt a cat despite all the responsibilities, congratulations! You’re one step closer to filling your home with lots of love and purrs. The next step is to find reputable shelters and rescue organizations that give cats a second chance at life. Take time to get to know the cats and maybe, volunteer first. These nonprofit organizations can help you find your perfect cat match:

• The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) 
• Compassion and Responsibility for Animals (CARA Welfare Philippines) 
• Pawssion Project
• Aklan Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (AARRC) 

Is Cat Adoption Right for You?

If you’re still on the fence, try fostering a cat first. Fostering lets you experience what it’s like to care for a cat without the long-term commitment. Many shelters offer foster programs and provide support throughout the process. Who knows? You might just find your forever feline companion along the way.

In the end, adopting a cat is a deeply personal decision. Yes, you’ll have additional responsibilities, including financial costs, to think about. But you’ll also be opening your life to years of unconditional love and companionship. As Jean Cocteau so beautifully put it, little by little, a cat just might become the visible soul of your home.