What do you wish people knew about cats before getting one?

[JamSandle]

No, they probably don't need a companion.

They can love as much as dogs - but they can take longer to warm up.

Never force yourself on a cat for cuddles etc. Let them come to you.

Just because the rescue says they are a 'bonded pair' doesn't mean they will stay that way.

Yes they are lower maintenance than a dog but they aren't no maintenance. Keeping an indoor cat stimulated is more work than you think.

How do you feel about cleaning up vomit? Or wee? Or both? Repeatedly.

They smell like cat.

If you accidentally end up owning the neighbourhood thug cat, all your neighbours will hate you.

Some of them are easily stressed and show this by pissing in random places in your house.

Theyre really bad for the local wildlife if outdoors

I'd add, rather than being aloof they're actually very sensitive and dislike change (even ones you didn't think they'd notice!)

They can live for a long time 20+ yrs isn’t unheard of. If they end up needing medication eg for hyperthyroidism etc it will cost £££ even if you are insured and you may be back and forth to the vet frequently for many years for tests/to make sure the medication is correct.

That they die and break your heart.

They will often ignore you, and stay wherever they are, when you're looking for them frantically calling their name.

This is true.

They transmit toxoplasmosis and if you're pregnant, it can be really dangerous.

The hair in summer. Oh my christ. Hair everywhere

Also the positives outweigh the negatives 10 fold

Gifts are part of the deal, with some, never bothers me

They can be very loud at some ungodly hour if they are hungry.
They can be very fussy with food.
They are very intelligent and intuitive.
They make amazing friends 😁

That they are sensitive, nervous creatures. Don’t get one unless you are prepared to be kind to it.

They're vile creatures and I wish they didn't exist.

They can be obsessed with eating slugs. Slugs are, of course, poisonous to cats. This results in vomiting. Vomiting which looks like they have eaten their own poo.

On the plus side, children find this hilarious.

Kittens will wreck your house. Don't want your house wrecked? Don't get a kitten.

Cats are not aloof or assholes (really breaks my heart when I hear this). Accept the cat for who they are. Do not try to train or change them like a dog. Learn to read your cat and it's needs. Watch their body language and they'll tell you everything.

Hold out your hand so the cat can take in your scent. Do not pat it on the head like a dog.

I’m going to say that is just your cat…

That they kill and maim Birds.

Cats have a sixth or even seventh sense and I suspect they will have identified where you live by now.

Just remember you've brought this on yourself...😱

Once they love you , they love you forever. I have a dog now after my 19 year of mog died. I adore him. But have a little space in my heart for a cat too. But he is a terrier. I think a kitten might win him over but darent risk it. I miss Miss Molly though.

Make sure to get insurance.

aw this is a (mostly) nice thread. we have just decided to 'adopt' an older stray cat, who has been fed by some people I know through work, they have had him neutered, microchipped and deflea-ed. all of his canines are broken or chipped, he's clearly had a hard time ☹️ I am hoping he settles well with us and we can spoil him. ❤️