I'd like to be a cat mum and would like some advice

[piddocktrumperiness]

I've always wanted a cat and would like to save up and adopt or buy one. I have my heart set on a Persian cat as it's always been a breed I loved since I was little. I've researched into Ragdolls but I live in a flat and feel a Persian is better suited.

I've never had a pet before but looked after friends' cats growing up. I don't know where to start really

Do I adopt or do I buy? at what age? Should I buy as I am a first time cat parent?
If I buy, how much do they cost?
How much do they cost per month?

If you own a Persian cat, do you have any advice? Tip/ do's and don'ts?

Could you foster? I did this for Cats' Protection for a number of years. You cannot let them out and you might have them for a few days to a few months.

CP provide food, litter and pays vets bills.

It's a good way to see if you like having a cat all the time.

Oh and I tend to put the litter tray in the bathroom

If you do end up going down the purchasing route, please try to avoid breeders who let their kittens go at 8 weeks or before.

Yes, rescue sites say 8 weeks is ok, but 12 weeks is better. The kittens learn a lot more re social/acceptable behaviour during those extra 4 weeks with their mum and siblings.

As others have said re rescuing, looking for FIV+ cats would be a good idea.

This is not about a Persian…

Somebody mentioned Flat Cats screens earlier. Here’s the link. They’re very, very easy to install.
https://www.flatcats.co.uk/index.php

Most of the cats I’ve fostered have loved cardboard boxes. Drop a few treats into a pile of boxes & they can be happy for ages hunting for them.

Seconding the people who say get cat insurance! I've learned my lesson after paying the cost of a small holiday to Spain to the vets after mine got a really bad ear infection