How to Choose a Kitten

Last Updated: March 4, 2021

Getting a kitten? Whether you're thinking of buying a pedigree or just a domestic shorthair, there's several important factors to consider when choosing your kitten.

Steps

1
Think about what kind of pet you actually want before you take the plunge. Understand that some cats just won't be right for you. If you wanted more of a sleek, graceful kitten that's more for show, then search more for this. But if you wanted an interactive, playful kitten search for them! Also choose if kitty is to be an indoor kitty (safer, but can be more boring for kitty - also enables chance of taking kitty for walks with you!), or an outdoor kitty (more dangerous for kitty; toxins, cars, roads, bad people, pound!, but can be more fun for kitty.), both are good choices, but be sure once settled on one, so as not to regret it in future!
2
Look at the whole litter. This will enable you to determine the characteristics of each kitten.

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3
Look for a playful and alert kitten, choose a kitten with clear eyes and a shiny coat. Ask about medical records and vaccinations.
4
Play with the kitten. Make sure that he or she likes you.
5
Look for the cat's reaction. If the cat squirms, and tries to wriggle out of your grasp, let it go and carry on with your search - but be careful not to confuse this with the cat being scared of you, as earlier mentioned! But if the cat stays with you, and seemingly wants to play, then definitely put this cat on the consideration list. Do not go straight with this cat though, as there may be other cats even more suited to you!
6
Take your selected kitten home. Be sure to schedule a checkup at your local vet clinic.

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Community Q&A

Question

What kind of cat can I pick up and cuddle?

Community Answer

Any that you choose really. Ask the pet shop owner what ones you can, and can't. It really depends more on the cat's personality than it does the breed.
Question

How do I choose a good age?

Community Answer

Cats live long lifespans and I'm sure they would like to have one owner for a lifetime. You can pick what age based on how long you can house it. If you can no longer house the cat/kitten, bring them to a responsible shelter.
Question

How do I find a litter?

Community Answer

Check in with your local animal shelter and see if they have any, or check community websites like craigslist.

Warnings

Note that if you are adopting a declawed cat or are thinking of declawing them, you should never let such a cat outdoors. Cats need their claws to defend themselves and to hunt in nature.

Thanks!
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