How to Select the Right Shelter Cat from LAWS

By Tanya M. Petrokov

From The Lanark Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) L.A.W.S., P.O. Box 156, Smiths Falls, ON, K7A 4T1:

Despite its autonomous nature, the domesticated cat is an animal that craves and needs love and affection. Cats come in all sizes, colours, coats and markings and their personalities can be just as diverse. Some cats want and demand constant affection, while others are content with the occasional pet or gentle stroke. Some prefer to not be handled at all and a hello across the room will suffice nicely thank you. So with all these variants, how can you decide which shelter cat is right for you? As you walk past some of the cat cages at LAWS, some cats will try to get your attention while others will seem aloof. As a first step, the cat you choose should be comfortable being handled by you. Be prepared to spend some time with the animals to see which one appears to be the most comfortable in your presence. The staff at LAWS can give you a good idea of the cat’s personality to help narrow it down for you. Remember that all the cats at LAWS come with a spay/neuter voucher and vaccinations (if they haven’t already been done).

A few extra things to keep in mind is that long-hairs will require regular grooming to avoid painful tangles. Also, try to choose a cat with the personality best suited to your lifestyle. For instance, a very affectionate cat that wants to be cuddled all the time may not be the best choice if you have a hectic household with lots to do. Similarly, an independent cat may not be the best match if you are looking for someone to cuddle with in the evenings. Again, the shelter staff will help you to select some of the most suitable choices. The point of this article is that selecting a shelter cat is so much more than picking out one with the prettiest colours. Your new companion could be in your life for as long as twenty years, so the fit should be just right. When it is, the rewards are innumerable for you both!