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14 - The Oakville Beaver Weekend, Saturday January 12, 2008 www.oakvillebeaver.com Do your homework when choosing a kitty T here are dozens of cats at the shelter waiting to find homes. While many people are thinking about getting a young cat, potential owners should take some time to consider which cat is best suited to their family. "Personalities of young cats are hard to determine," said Heather White, Oakville & District Humane Society Community Outreach and Education Manager. "With adult cats, you know the size, temperament and look of the cat before they go home with you," she said. Most kittens are old enough to be taken home between eight to 12 weeks of age, when they have had the benefit of learning valuable skills from their mother. At this age, however, a feline is too young to demonstrate its true personality and will display `typical' kitten behaviour ­ including being active, sometimes destructive, climbing, and sharpening its claws everywhere. Although visually appealing to young pet owners, kittens are not necessarily the best choice for a family with young children. "Most kittens go through a feisty stage," noted White. "Humane societies will often guide young families to choose an adult that has either come from a household with children or one that is calm and wants to interact with children. Kittens often bite and scratch and that can scare young children. We want the child and animal to form a close bond and that isn't possible or enjoyable if the child is scared of the cat." Whether you choose a young or old cat from a breeder or humane society, there are some general rules to follow to ensure your choice is a healthy one. Cats can live 10-20 years, so use these rules to help you make your choice an informed one: Choosing a Kitten? · Do not take a kitten home before eight weeks of age. They need that time with their litter. · Make sure the eyes are clear and the kitten looks bright and alert. · If getting the cat from a shelter or friend, ask lots of questions about its personality and habits to see if it fits your household. · Get a copy of the vet records. · Handle the cat. If there are children the cat should enjoy being petted and carried and cradled. If the cat does not enjoy a lot of human contact, it is probably not the ideal for younger children. · If you already have a cat, choose the opposite sex. There's No Place Like Home · Before you bring your cat/kitten home, determine a safe area where it can stay to adjust. It should have food, water and the litter box. Gradually allow it access to the rest of the house. · Other animals in the house? Integrate them slowly so that everyone has the chance to adjust to the new situation. · Keep your cat indoors. The safest place for your cat is at home where it does not face the danger of traffic, wildlife, hostile people, or the risk of getting lost. More than 1,000 cats a year find homes through the Oakville & District Humane Society. For information about adopting or registering a cat or learning more about cat care contact the society at 905-845-1551 or visit the shelter at 445 Cornwall Rd. Open House PET OF THE WEEK: Garth would love to live with another cat. The Humane Society has more than 100 cats available for adoption. Check out www.oakvillehumane.ca, call 905-845-1551 or visit the shelter located at 445 Cornwall Rd. · Check the litter box to make sure the kitten does not have diarrhea -- a possible sign of parasites or illness. · The kitten should seem active. · The coat should be soft, silky and not clumped and dry. · Choose an outgoing kitten that wants to interact with you as a shy one may grow up to be a shy cat ­ not ideal for children. · Make sure the kitten has good weight. Choosing an adult cat? · Ensure the cat looks healthy and alert. · Check the litterbox for diarrhea. BUSINESS WEBSITE VIDEO TALKING CHARACTER $69/00 . MONTH* Showcase Your Business. Reach New Customers. Links to Local Sales & Specials Local Video Guide Complete Local Business Directory Shopping Mall Guide Local Web Guide For more information call 310-GOLD or email sales@goldbook.ca *with the purchase of any Gold Book product.