While kittens are furry little bundles of cuteness, there are many benefits to welcoming an older cat into your home.
1. What you see is what you get
Adult cats already know who they are. Kittens are undeniably cute, but you never know what the future holds, how large they may get, what their personality will ultimately be, and so on. An adorable little kitten will be an adult in the blink of an eye.
2. Adult cats aren’t teething
Kittens have a tendency to chew things, lots of things. Whether teething or just exploring bits of the world around them, kittens chew on shoes, the corners of books, ear lobes and fingers, carpet tassels, electrical cords, drapery strings, plants, and much more. Most adult cats don't chew inappropriately at all.
3. They'll adapt well to other pets
If you have an older cat in your home and are looking for a friend for him or her, another adult cat may be the best choice. Kittens can be too playful and may upset your cat instead of providing companionship. A kitten may cause your resident cat to be more annoyed than amused.
4. Older cats can make better companions
After a long day at the office, you may just want to come home and curl up with your furry friend, but most kittens prefer an action packed evening, lots of touseling, frolicking, and plenty of running and jumping. An adult cat will greet you at the door and be more than happy to curl up and watch your favourite shows on TV. They've already learned about the unconditional love thing. Adult cats may sleep at the foot of your bed, under the bed or in a cosy spot somewhere else in the house, while a kitten will most likely run around all night, doing anything possible to wake you up for more games. Adult cats are generally happy to sleep when you do and don't try to attack your toes through the blankets in the middle of the night.
5. Older cats can be more family-friendly
Adult cats are usually a better choice for families with small children. Kittens often play rough and are constantly underfoot. They're sharp - they can't help it, but kittens are all teeth and claws. Generally speaking, adult cats are more mellow, and often more patient with young children. The experience should be a good one for both the cat and the child.
6. They require less attention and supervision
Older cats are quieter companions, and have well-developed manners, such as how to use the litter box and the scratching post without constant reminders.
7. You'll be doing a good deed
For the abandoned adult cats, you may well be their last chance at the love and warmth of a home where they can live out their years in comfort. When properly cared for, cats often live well into their late teens or longer. Typically, they will remain active and even playful throughout most of their lives. Once a cat adjusts to a new home where they can feel safe and secure again, they'll offer years.
Image via Pinterest.
