The Millstone Times August 2018

PET PAGES

Steps to Success With Cats By Nicole Iuzzolino Every year, 3.4 million cats are rescued. As stated by Kittencoalition.org, out of that 3.4 million, 1.4 million are euthanized every year. This statistic really hurts a lot of animal lovers hearts knowing that there are so many loving cats being killed. Many after hearing this will want to go and adopt one or possibly two and give them the loving home they deserve. While it is a great deed to rescue the cats and take them into your household, there are a few things one must think about beforehand. Here is a list of five do's and don'ts when it comes to adopting your next furry friend. Do: Make sure everyone agrees on the adoption This rule may seem like common sense but it is often overlooked. Cats and other adoptable pets are a huge commitment, and everyone has to be on board. A chorus of ¨yes's” and ¨It's fine to get it¨ are not sufficient enough. It must be stressed that participation from everyone in raising the animal is highly important. If the responsibility ends up falling on one person's plate, it becomes unfair to that person and to the cat. Make sure everyone knows that their regular routines will now be changed now that an animal has entered their lives. Don´t: Adopt a cat too young Baby kittens should not be taken away from their mothers too early. They will bite and claw a lot more if taken away from their mothers, and those habits could be hard to break. They learn best when surrounded by their siblings and mother. Baby kittens should be with their mothers for 12 to 16 weeks before adoption. Do: Take your adopted cat to the vet Kittens are prone to getting sick while they are young, so it is important to take them to the vet sooner rather than later. Early screening and vac- cines will insure your cat being healthy. Don´t: Adopt more pets while your cat is settling in While you are adjusting to having a new routine with now having a cat, your cat is adjusting to everything as well. They are adjusting to being in a home and having a new family. It can disrupt the process of adjustment by adding a new pet in the mix. Always make sure your cat is acclimated

WE FIND

WE SCOOP

WE TAKE-AWAY

WEEKLY & MONTHLY SERVICES

732-409-7098 PET & WILDLIFE WASTE REMOVAL Call Today For Information THEDOODOOCREW@GMAIL.COM

$20 OFF First Month Service

Cats at Home:

Home Veterinary Visits

23 years all-feline experience

609-915-8671 EmilyJarvisDVM.com

to your home before you adopt again. Do: Show them lots of love

$10 OFF first house-call fee when you mention this ad

Love is the key to raising the perfect cat. They will become an instant member of your family, and will always be there for you, no matter what.

76

The Millstone Times

August 2018