Cats
Cats are the most popular domestic popular pet in Ireland. Cats are very loyal to their owners but are also very independent. Cats make fantastic pets but there are important considerations to be made before getting a cat. While many Cats have a natural independence; they do require great care and attention. One must be sure that they have the time and suitable environment for a cat. Cats like to spend time exploring the outdoors. Your house and family setting is an important consideration to be made. One must also consider the cost of caring for a cat. Routine Vet Bills and food alone are important costs to consider.
Cat Adoption and Rehoming
There is a huge problem in Ireland with stray cats. Animal and Cat rescue centres try to care for many of these Cats whilst looking for a good permanent home. Other Cats can often end up in these Shelters and Centres as a result of their owner dying or moving. In more sad cases, cats may be placed in Shelters as a result of abuse or neglect. Adopting a Cat is a marvellous and kind gesture. After adopting your cat – you must make other important decisions.
Neutering your Cat
The problem of stray Cats in Ireland has largely been caused by owners not Neutering (or Spaying) their Cats. Neutering your Cat is important in preventing unwanted Kittens. However, it is equally important for the Health of your Cat. Female Cats that have been neutered are much less likely to get Mammary Cancer. Neutering your male cat reduces aggression which reduces the chances of receiving infection from fighting with other male cats. Neutered cats also make better pets. Neutered male cats are less likely to mark their territory with urine (known as spraying). Neutered Female Cats are less likely to attract wild male cats.
MicroChipping your Cat
Owners often lose their cats as a result of the owner themselves being unidentifiable. When people find a strange cat they often can’t find the owner of the cat as the cat has no identification. Microchipping your cat can help you avoid this problem. The procedure for microchipping your cat involves placing a microchip under the skin of your cat. The procedure is just like getting a Vaccine – your cat will not suffer. Scanners can be used to identify a microchip which contains ownership details. Most Vets and Animal Shelters / Rescue Centres will have equipment to scan for microchips.
