Absolutely! Our daughters did something you are NEVER supposed to do: They surprised us with a cat for Christmas in 2011. Saphira is an Ocicat and was about two at the time and being retired from breeding. I will tell the story in my top level reply to his video. But in short we decided to give her a try, and fell totally in love with her in just a few days, it was clear she had found her furever home. Best behaved feline we had ever had, she is curled up beside my rght now. Adult cats need love too, and are much harder for shelters to find homes for because everyone wants cute little kittens. Oh, and don't forget black cats, they are the hardest to find homes for. Every black cat I have ever met has been wonderful!
I agree..kittens are not for everyone..kittens are very mischievous and active..they love to chew things, claw things and knock things over..you have to treat them like children..very high maintenance..very patient and understanding future pet parent will be rewarded😊
Badger I admire that but there’s more to getting a cat than who needs a home more, you also need to factor in how the cat’s personality fits your lifestyle and home environment.
*buys all kinds of expensive cat toys and and apparatuses, get all excited setting them up for the cat.* *cat climbs into the box they came in and plays with the paper filling*
Many years ago, I was looking for a kitten to take home at my grandma's house, and there was this one who hid inside of a pop can (or soda can) box and she wasn't used to humans so she hid from the others in the box. I was drawn to that kitten the most and once I took her back home, she was used to me and only trusted me. Plus I found out she was a very energetic and playful kitty, I was drawn to this cat even though we were opposites (I'm very quiet and not much like her), she was the greatest kitten for me because she trusted me. YOU DON'T HAVE TO HAVE THE SAME PERSONALITY AS YOUR CAT. THAT WOULD SEEM BORING WOULDN'T IT? SHE OR HE IS JUST A CAT VERSION OF YOU; unless you think it's cute for you cat to be. Anyway, so I taught this kitten many things. I taught her to: climb the stairs after my brother thru her down, to use the litter box, to play fetch, and a lot more myself. She was very tiny, you could hold her in the palm of your hand and no she wasn't a newborn. She cared a lot about me, and she loved me, I loved her. She was definitely the greatest cat for me. She would cry for me even if I was just going to school; she would bite onto my pantleg to keep me from leaving. But it's been almost exactly (by a few days) a year since she died and I'm still not over it. She //was// the greatest cat for me, choose the one you're drawn to the most, you might have the best years of your life. Just show them that you love them before they pass, no one wants to die thinking that the one they love hates them. Don't do what I did, I didn't get a chance to tell my feline best friend I loved her. (sorry that was so long)
I have felt that I haven't let my cat and dog know that I loved them when they had passed. In the end I believe that they did know how much I loved them even though I felt like I didn't have the chance to show them. It is never easy losing a beloved one. I think they know we loved them and still love them with all of our hearts. 🐈😭💓🐱
I tell my 20 year old Sophia that she is loved every day. 💖💖💖Her hearing is not so great these days but I whisper in her ear all the time. She's been such a wonderful little friend. I know the day draws nearer that she will be gone and all I'll have are memories. So, love your sweet kitties and tell and show them as much as you can. What a joy it's been to be Sophia's bestie. 😻
My special kitty died last June from cancer. She was 13 years old. It has really got to me, I still keep thinking about her all the time. She was super smart friendly and loved to go with me everywhere I went. She loved to go for walks to the beach an park or the pet store. She was a F-1 Savannah cat. I really miss her so badly. Even though I have another rescue cat to care for she will always have a special place in my heart. 😻😿
A few months ago I went over to my local humane society wanting to adopt a cat, I ended up being fascinated with an entire litter of kittens, 5 of them I think all looking and behaving exactly the same, all very happy go lucky and very social.. I really wanted to take them all home really.. It was VERY hard to pick just one, but I did and she is the happiest most social out going cat I have ever seen.. She loves her space, but she comes up to me all the time wanting to play.. My biggest concern was having a cat who was too needy since I'm sometimes busy and can't stop what I'm doing, but Maggie is VERY independent and fierce! She is sweet, she plays all day and as she has been getting older she has been becoming more mellow.. Exactly what I wanted. She is quite frankly the perfect cat for me, she does a lot of things on her own, she has NO interest in going outside like my last cat and she is very low maintenance. I'm glad she is with me, my only regret was not getting one of her siblings to keep her company..
Thank you. I was just about to say that as well, as I also prefer to rescue the ones who need help socializing. The anti-social shy ones are the most at risk for euthanization. Someone needs to pay attention to those cats first!
I pet the neighbours two cats. One of them is very antisocial. So I had to work with her for a while before she trusted me. But it also feels more rewarding when the cat finally accepts you. So before I watched this video I thought that getting the more antisocial one isn't a bad idea.
Very good advice. I really liked his emphasis on spending lots of time in the adoption process and letting the kittens come to you when you're sitting still. Also, consider a slightly older kitten, at least 3-5 months old. At that age, their personalities will shine, and older kittens are often cuddlier too.
interesting! when i adopted my cat, I wonder if I made my decision too quickly? she headbutted me and i liked her. she is very kind and sweet now, but still a little shy sometimes, i think she was abused. I'm wanting to adopt a kitten so this advice is perf UPDATE: I took this advice for adopting my second kitten. I wanted a cuddly cat, and happily, my kitten cuddles me every night!
Very informative and accurate. I especially love that you acknowledge the cat's wild nature. Many people freak out when they kill things or try to restrain them from being the predators that they are naturally. I've always felt you have to embrace that side of them in order to be a cat owner.
Leah King My cat loves to kill bugs frogs lizards any small thing scurrying along the ground in the bushes. It is what they do he is so proud afterwards to show me his road kill like a battle trophy. Funny 🙀😺😻
That little gray he is in Love with you .!🐱❤️ He is looking to go home with you..!🏡 Bless His / Her little Heart ❤️ I’m happy to ran across this video very helpful to me Thanks 🙏🏽😊
Dr…I attach those balloon holder that looks like grass and flowers and that you can get at dollar tree… my cats miss the warmer days here in North Dakota and this mimics them really hiding and playing with plants 🌱 and these are virtually risk free to their physical health
Def dont do love at first site. I adopted a kitten because she was calico She hated all other animals, and being an animal lover, that was hard for the 15 yrs of her life.
I worked with shelters for many years trying to help cats find homes and teach people about them. I always tried to get older retired people to adopt a older cat to keep them company. Remember you are slowing down the older you get and like to relax more on the sofa. Plus you’re not running around as much. So a older cat is perfect for them in many ways. Kittens are like having a three year old kid to baby sit. They never stop running around, meowing away nonstop wanting to play. It can be very exhausting trying to keep up. I dreaded having to care for my younger brothers baby. I’m 63 years old and he was 3 years old. I begged him to chill out on the sofa with me so I could pass out for a nap. It was funny I needed a nap more then he did. And a big thing also to remember the older you are don’t get a baby kitty that could live for 15-20 years if your in your late 60’s say. Remember your 😻 kitty is family and not something to dump when your bored or something like that or plan to more or travel and want to dump the kitty. They have feelings too 😿😾 you know. It really crushes them if you dump them remember! I rescued a Asian Leopard cat not to long ago he was badly terrorized and beaten and went thru hell for the first 11 months growing up. I have been working hard to rehabilitate him for 8 months now. And he is just starting to trust me. Now finally he is allowing me to touch him a little bit. Plus pick him up a bit. They really messed his head up and it could take years for him to learn that not everyone wants to hurt him. 😿😻 Be patient with your new baby kitty even if they make a mistake or have a potty accident. Learn to take it in stride don’t scream or hit them it only will make things worse. Mellow, quiet laid back attitude will work best. And tons of toys and jungle Jim’s and scratching post will make him happy. Make your new cat feel as if he lives their to and is family, not a temporary guest!! 😻😺 cats are the greatest
All true, I am in my late 50s and when I got my current two cats 5 years ago, I knew it'd be the last time I get kittens. If I live long enough to get another cat, it'd be an adult, maybe even a senior. My friend will take care of these two if something happens to me, they come in a Will together with my house. I might set up a trust for them. You rescued a real Asian Leopard Cat, not a Bengal? Wow. Didn't you need a permit or something like this to keep him? I am fascinated by small wild cats. I don't want one, but I love learning about them and watching videos with them.
Dr. Jeff Nichol: You are a Great Person & a wonderful Vet! I've been a cat person most of my life & I have learned so much from your presentation. I had to release my dear kitty in December. We were together 11 years. She had carcinoma. I've gotten to the point where I'm looking to adopt another cat. But having been so fortunate with my prior kitty, I want to be sure I find a great match. Thank You for this video, it's been awhile since I've adopted & I feel so much better about making the best decision! It's a committment for Life, after all.
You are a wonderful man! We definitely need more compassionate individuals to let alone veterinarians like yourself, especially with all of the sad animal abuse out there. But of course, I've learned even more about kittens from you, sir!
This video is sweet . Jeff makes sense My oldest Birman was 26 when she passed and now I breed Ragdolls , they are the best .... growing up I rescued many street kitties but no greater satisfaction then a well bread Ragdoll .
Such valuable information. I believe animal adoption places are learning better ways to find those furever homes, such as mentioned here. I believe too many people jump at the first one that appeals to them rather than taking time to get to know the kitty. I think it used to be that animal adoption places didn't have the knowledge to be able to do things in this manner. I do believe it has improved how the shelters, humane society's, etc. are looking at methods of finding the right place for individual animals.
What a great and informative video! This is really good stuff. I lost my cat after having her for 18years when she contracted a respiratory infection and stopped eating. Could.not get her to eat for week and she lost a lot weight and she was suffering so I had no choice but to euthanize her. The hardest part was letting her go and saying goodbye. I miss her and in mourning but in the future, will co sider getting another cat/kitty and these tips are very helpful. Thanks for sharing.
Wow, I didn't know they could let you adopt a cat that young! I realize now that this is an old comment I am replying to. I hope you and Juniper are doing well and living your best lives!
The best advice I can give is to know what you are looking for in a cat. Then the next thing you should do is call or email the shelter and tell them exactly what you are looking for. Do not rely on a quick play session or on a paragraph from petfinder! The shelter workers or fosters homes know more about the cats than anyone else. When I adopted my cat Gabriel I spent quite a bit of time on the phone with his foster family. I made sure they knew that I was looking for a very social and loving cat and not the type to hide all day long. They matched me with the perfect cat. He really was the best match for me - and I wouldn't have known that from a paragraph on petfinder or a quick visit to the shelter. Now I am adopting again and once again I reached out to the foster family that had housed my cat Gabriel. I explained the personality of the cat I have right now and explained once more that I am looking for a very social and loving cat who will not be a wall flower and has the best likelihood of getting along with Gabe. In my situation they suggested that adopting a kitten would be my best bet. Then after knowing exactly what I am looking for, they were able to send me photographs of kittens they thought would do best in my home. Only at that point did I take looks into consideration and chose a black and white kitten who looks remarkably similar to the cat in my user name picture. ( That cat passed away.) Anyway I now feel that I have the best chance at getting the kitten who will be a great little sister and playmate for Gabriel and loving little attention where for me! In my case the cats have come from a shelter that is in the south but ships pets up north for their adoptions so, I can not express how vital it has been for me to really communicate with the shelter and really have their input in making sure the cats will hopefully be suited for each other and for me! Always, always, always base your adoption decisions on what the shelter workers or fosters homes have to say - and be upfront with them about your home situation, work hours and other pets you may already have. I really can not reiterate how important it is to talk with the people that have known your new little buddy's personality and let them make the suggestions as to what cat will be right for you. In the end the better you can describe what you have and what you are looking for can really impact your life and the cat(s) life's for the better! With that being said wish me good luck introducing the future Waverly-Grace to Gabriel in the near future!
I've got a new kitten (4 months old). I went and saw lots of kitties. I wanted a confident friendly kitten. I have to say, I probably didn't spend enough time with her in her foster home, but luckily it's worked out so far. I mean she did run up to me at the door, came and sat on my lap, let me pick her up and purred, she was also playful with her other kitty friends. I also noticed she really like to observe she was inquisitive and sat up straight looking at humans. She's lovely, allows me to pat her anywhere, not afraid of me touching her paws (loves it in fact). I put a measuring tape around her neck to measure it, didn't even notice. She barely meows in the car (and will introduce her to the car more often). She gives me kisses every morning and sleeps next to me. Doesn't love being picked up or to be on the lap too long (does like to sit on my chest) but she loves me being close by. Actually today, she did come to my lap and fell asleep (but I was in an uncomfortable position on the floor).
thank you for this video Dr. Yes, they are wild! Love the one that hunted and killed it's pretend prey in the corner and the one that climbed on u. so cute!
As a prospective rookie new cat owner, what would be a shopping list of tings to get before selecting? Obvously, basics - food, litter box & litter, travel cage, toys; scratch post, what else? If intersted in getting a cat, should you considar getting two, to keep each othar company when a person isn't around? Is a single cat going to behave bad if he's leftalone for significant periods of time? On average, what is a balpark guestimate of annual veternary costs? Are cats disturbed if they arr exclusively kept indoors?
food and water bowls, a couple of cat beds (I cover mine with towels and replace with fresh ones when dirty), a brush, something to install or place near a window so they can look out and sun bathe, red laser dot (a must), treats, litter scoop. Vet bills in the beginning are more due to shots and spay/neuter. After that, if all goes well, just one visit a year for check ups. Mine are kept totally indoors and have no desire to go outside. My opinion is if you're getting a kitten, yes, being left alone for long periods would not be good. Not sure what you are considering a significant period of time. Be sure to get toys that are safe for play and that they can't swallow any parts or strings or feathers and such.
Nice channel i love animals help and raise them i choose all he cats if I could specially who r in difficult or bad state all need a good chance & a special way to treat them. I subscribe god bless u
This is great but what if there is only in store in your country or very little and they don't allow u to meet the kittens and stay with them for a while before u buy them it's either buy or leave.
Very informative. Thank you. Mu kitty ha i guess a heart attack Was warming herself after mornin hunt on the heat vent, took about 5 screaming breaths, and died. Right in front of me. 3 years old. She was our mouser. As we live in the country w fields. But would come in at night to watch n participate in whatever we were doing. Then she would curl up n sleep with me. She came as a combo. Sisters that had to adopt together. The sister of mamba was a tuxedo cat, longer hair. No real social, and would attack our other pets. Food aggresive. Scratched us. She was not happy. No one was happy. We surrendered her to a no kill shelter full of volunteers to play with her daily in the cat jungle gym room. I think about her every day. Where is she. Why do i deserve a new kitten when i gave up on this one? Its hard. I dont know if ill ever find a lovey cat, mouse hunter.
What if you are a kid and you want to buy a kitten and your parents are saying to you to hurry up and pick a kitten but the man said that you should take your time so what should I do in this situation ?!
hi doc, i found 3 kittens under my house. they look around 4-6 weeks old - blue eyes and wobbly on their legs. i have not touched them yet as the mom is still nursing. the mom is a stray. i was considering adopting them but not sure if its a good idea. they hissed at me when they saw me for starters. what advise can you give me to help tame them and get them used to people. when is a good time to handle them? looking forward to hearing from you.
This is probably too late... I was in a similar situation but the kittens were only a few days old. I took them and bottle fed them so they wouldn't become feral.
I see those toys the cats are playing with and all I see is Linear Foreign Bodies. Those toys are completely unsafe for play and I hope they aren't left in when they cats are unsupervised.
How can I recognize, which will be the most cuddly? More affectionate/cuddly kittens are those playful or those who hidden themselves? Please some advise. Thank you. :-)
I always wanted a cat to train, I thought I'd picked the perfect kitten, but she doesn't like any treats at all, and refuses to even I'm acknowledge speaking. I'll be moving to my own apartment soon so I'll be getting her a companion, is there any indicators for an intelligent trainable cat/kitten?
Guys, please consider adopting an adult cat. They do need love too.
Absolutely! Our daughters did something you are NEVER supposed to do: They surprised us with a cat for Christmas in 2011. Saphira is an Ocicat and was about two at the time and being retired from breeding. I will tell the story in my top level reply to his video. But in short we decided to give her a try, and fell totally in love with her in just a few days, it was clear she had found her furever home. Best behaved feline we had ever had, she is curled up beside my rght now. Adult cats need love too, and are much harder for shelters to find homes for because everyone wants cute little kittens. Oh, and don't forget black cats, they are the hardest to find homes for. Every black cat I have ever met has been wonderful!
I agree..kittens are not for everyone..kittens are very mischievous and active..they love to chew things, claw things and knock things over..you have to treat them like children..very high maintenance..very patient and understanding future pet parent will be rewarded😊
Amen. Adult cats have already gone through the insane kitten phase and they’re ready to loaf out
I'm not ready for another cat yet but when I get another I'm going for the cat that has been at the shelter the longest.
Badger I admire that but there’s more to getting a cat than who needs a home more, you also need to factor in how the cat’s personality fits your lifestyle and home environment.
*buys all kinds of expensive cat toys and and apparatuses, get all excited setting them up for the cat.*
*cat climbs into the box they came in and plays with the paper filling*
Lol. Naturally. The common box and paper filling is the greatest toy for all kitties.
That kitty climbing onto you is so cute omg >.
I'm going through a kitten adoption myself now and found this video. This is like Mr. Rogers for cat adoptions. I love it! :)
me too :0)
Many years ago, I was looking for a kitten to take home at my grandma's house, and there was this one who hid inside of a pop can (or soda can) box and she wasn't used to humans so she hid from the others in the box. I was drawn to that kitten the most and once I took her back home, she was used to me and only trusted me. Plus I found out she was a very energetic and playful kitty, I was drawn to this cat even though we were opposites (I'm very quiet and not much like her), she was the greatest kitten for me because she trusted me. YOU DON'T HAVE TO HAVE THE SAME PERSONALITY AS YOUR CAT. THAT WOULD SEEM BORING WOULDN'T IT? SHE OR HE IS JUST A CAT VERSION OF YOU; unless you think it's cute for you cat to be.
Anyway, so I taught this kitten many things. I taught her to: climb the stairs after my brother thru her down, to use the litter box, to play fetch, and a lot more myself. She was very tiny, you could hold her in the palm of your hand and no she wasn't a newborn. She cared a lot about me, and she loved me, I loved her. She was definitely the greatest cat for me. She would cry for me even if I was just going to school; she would bite onto my pantleg to keep me from leaving.
But it's been almost exactly (by a few days) a year since she died and I'm still not over it. She //was// the greatest cat for me, choose the one you're drawn to the most, you might have the best years of your life. Just show them that you love them before they pass, no one wants to die thinking that the one they love hates them. Don't do what I did, I didn't get a chance to tell my feline best friend I loved her. (sorry that was so long)
Emil Steilsson srroy for your loss Rip
I have felt that I haven't let my cat and dog know that I loved them when they had passed. In the end I believe that they did know how much I loved them even though I felt like I didn't have the chance to show them. It is never easy losing a beloved one. I think they know we loved them and still love them with all of our hearts. 🐈😭💓🐱
Sorry for your loss!
I tell my 20 year old Sophia that she is loved every day. 💖💖💖Her hearing is not so great these days but I whisper in her ear all the time. She's been such a wonderful little friend. I know the day draws nearer that she will be gone and all I'll have are memories. So, love your sweet kitties and tell and show them as much as you can. What a joy it's been to be Sophia's bestie. 😻
My special kitty died last June from cancer. She was 13 years old. It has really got to me, I still keep thinking about her all the time. She was super smart friendly and loved to go with me everywhere I went. She loved to go for walks to the beach an park or the pet store. She was a F-1 Savannah cat. I really miss her so badly. Even though I have another rescue cat to care for she will always have a special place in my heart. 😻😿
that grey one really loves you
A few months ago I went over to my local humane society wanting to adopt a cat, I ended up being fascinated with an entire litter of kittens, 5 of them I think all looking and behaving exactly the same, all very happy go lucky and very social.. I really wanted to take them all home really.. It was VERY hard to pick just one, but I did and she is the happiest most social out going cat I have ever seen.. She loves her space, but she comes up to me all the time wanting to play.. My biggest concern was having a cat who was too needy since I'm sometimes busy and can't stop what I'm doing, but Maggie is VERY independent and fierce! She is sweet, she plays all day and as she has been getting older she has been becoming more mellow.. Exactly what I wanted. She is quite frankly the perfect cat for me, she does a lot of things on her own, she has NO interest in going outside like my last cat and she is very low maintenance. I'm glad she is with me, my only regret was not getting one of her siblings to keep her company..
I pick the lonely antisocial difficult runts that no one wants. I always want those ones soooooooooooo bad. I never forget them.
Thank you. I was just about to say that as well, as I also prefer to rescue the ones who need help socializing. The anti-social shy ones are the most at risk for euthanization. Someone needs to pay attention to those cats first!
I pet the neighbours two cats. One of them is very antisocial. So I had to work with her for a while before she trusted me. But it also feels more rewarding when the cat finally accepts you. So before I watched this video I thought that getting the more antisocial one isn't a bad idea.
Very good advice. I really liked his emphasis on spending lots of time in the adoption process and letting the kittens come to you when you're sitting still. Also, consider a slightly older kitten, at least 3-5 months old. At that age, their personalities will shine, and older kittens are often cuddlier too.
the gray one really loves you
He was like, "He Mr.! Pick me! Pick me! I am snuggly!"
Take me home
Usually when a kitten purrs and rubs up against you, it's usually a good sign that they like you, and that they've chosen you.
interesting! when i adopted my cat, I wonder if I made my decision too quickly? she headbutted me and i liked her. she is very kind and sweet now, but still a little shy sometimes, i think she was abused. I'm wanting to adopt a kitten so this advice is perf
UPDATE: I took this advice for adopting my second kitten. I wanted a cuddly cat, and happily, my kitten cuddles me every night!
Was the kitten more quiet and stayed in the corner? Or did the kitten rest on your lap and let you cuddle it..?
So many friendly cute faces that need a home, just not enough time and money to care for them all. It's heart-breaking!
Very informative and accurate. I especially love that you acknowledge the cat's wild nature. Many people freak out when they kill things or try to restrain them from being the predators that they are naturally. I've always felt you have to embrace that side of them in order to be a cat owner.
Leah King
My cat loves to kill bugs frogs lizards any small thing scurrying along the ground in the bushes. It is what they do he is so proud afterwards to show me his road kill like a battle trophy. Funny 🙀😺😻
I love that crazy grey kitten!
I hope you adopted that gray kitten. She seemed to really want to be with you
That little gray he is in Love with you .!🐱❤️
He is looking to go home with you..!🏡
Bless His / Her little Heart ❤️
I’m happy to ran across this video very helpful to me
Thanks 🙏🏽😊
3:52
I got a kitten like that, But know she's the friendliest cat I ever had! I got really lucky.
Dr…I attach those balloon holder that looks like grass and flowers and that you can get at dollar tree… my cats miss the warmer days here in North Dakota and this mimics them really hiding and playing with plants 🌱 and these are virtually risk free to their physical health
Def dont do love at first site.
I adopted a kitten because she was calico
She hated all other animals, and being an animal lover, that was hard for the 15 yrs of her life.
Sounds like the perfect cat for me, I only have the energy for one.
Great stuff Dr Nichol.
I worked with shelters for many years trying to help cats find homes and teach people about them. I always tried to get older retired people to adopt a older cat to keep them company. Remember you are slowing down the older you get and like to relax more on the sofa. Plus you’re not running around as much. So a older cat is perfect for them in many ways. Kittens are like having a three year old kid to baby sit. They never stop running around, meowing away nonstop wanting to play. It can be very exhausting trying to keep up. I dreaded having to care for my younger brothers baby. I’m 63 years old and he was 3 years old. I begged him to chill out on the sofa with me so I could pass out for a nap. It was funny I needed a nap more then he did. And a big thing also to remember the older you are don’t get a baby kitty that could live for 15-20 years if your in your late 60’s say. Remember your 😻 kitty is family and not something to dump when your bored or something like that or plan to more or travel and want to dump the kitty. They have feelings too 😿😾 you know. It really crushes them if you dump them remember!
I rescued a Asian Leopard cat not to long ago he was badly terrorized and beaten and went thru hell for the first 11 months growing up. I have been working hard to rehabilitate him for 8 months now. And he is just starting to trust me. Now finally he is allowing me to touch him a little bit. Plus pick him up a bit. They really messed his head up and it could take years for him to learn that not everyone wants to hurt him. 😿😻 Be patient with your new baby kitty even if they make a mistake or have a potty accident. Learn to take it in stride don’t scream or hit them it only will make things worse. Mellow, quiet laid back attitude will work best. And tons of toys and jungle Jim’s and scratching post will make him happy. Make your new cat feel as if he lives their to and is family, not a temporary guest!! 😻😺 cats are the greatest
All true, I am in my late 50s and when I got my current two cats 5 years ago, I knew it'd be the last time I get kittens. If I live long enough to get another cat, it'd be an adult, maybe even a senior. My friend will take care of these two if something happens to me, they come in a Will together with my house. I might set up a trust for them.
You rescued a real Asian Leopard Cat, not a Bengal? Wow. Didn't you need a permit or something like this to keep him? I am fascinated by small wild cats. I don't want one, but I love learning about them and watching videos with them.
Well done, Dr.Nichol. You made some good observations from which I learned.
I have rescued cats since I was a young girl. I'm now 52 and love all cats, especially the older feral ones 😻😻😻
Two bonded or friendly with each other is best.
Dr. Jeff Nichol: You are a Great Person & a wonderful Vet! I've been a cat person most of my life & I have learned so much from your presentation. I had to release my dear kitty in December. We were together 11 years. She had carcinoma. I've gotten to the point where I'm looking to adopt another cat. But having been so fortunate with my prior kitty, I want to be sure I find a great match. Thank You for this video, it's been awhile since I've adopted & I feel so much better about making the best decision! It's a committment for Life, after all.
You are a wonderful man! We definitely need more compassionate individuals to let alone veterinarians like yourself, especially with all of the sad animal abuse out there. But of course, I've learned even more about kittens from you, sir!
i’ve learned so much more from this video than any other about choosing my future cat, thanks!!
Awe! This is perfect thank you Jeff!
Wow thank you, this video was very helpful and for sure will make me feel better while picking out my kitten. 😉😊
This video is sweet . Jeff makes sense My oldest Birman was 26 when she passed and now I breed Ragdolls , they are the best .... growing up I rescued many street kitties but no greater satisfaction then a well bread Ragdoll .
Very sound pieces of advice, good video!
Such valuable information. I believe animal adoption places are learning better ways to find those furever homes, such as mentioned here. I believe too many people jump at the first one that appeals to them rather than taking time to get to know the kitty. I think it used to be that animal adoption places didn't have the knowledge to be able to do things in this manner. I do believe it has improved how the shelters, humane society's, etc. are looking at methods of finding the right place for individual animals.
Wonderful video! I found this to be very helpful and informative.
This guy is the Mr. Rogers of cats.
That was a really good video! Thanks!!
I am getting a kitten to day thanks
I enjoy your videos. I adopted two kittens. They bring so much joy to my life. They also have their own channel. 😺
Cute kitties. thanks fur sharing
What a great and informative video! This is really good stuff. I lost my cat after having her for 18years when she contracted a respiratory infection and stopped eating. Could.not get her to eat for week and she lost a lot weight and she was suffering so I had no choice but to euthanize her. The hardest part was letting her go and saying goodbye. I miss her and in mourning but in the future, will co sider getting another cat/kitty and these tips are very helpful. Thanks for sharing.
This video is really great and informative! Thanks!
Thank you so much you helped me pick the perfect kitten i named her Lexi.
+Abigail Smith my name is lexi XDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD
this is one of the best videos on youtube
I got a kitten yesterday she's 2months and 3 days she weighs not even a pound and she's so funny I love her so much her names juniper!
Awwww congrats!!!! 😺😸
How is she
Azalea Melanson great name!
Wow, I didn't know they could let you adopt a cat that young! I realize now that this is an old comment I am replying to. I hope you and Juniper are doing well and living your best lives!
I loved this video thank you so much
The best advice I can give is to know what you are looking for in a cat. Then the next thing you should do is call or email the shelter and tell them exactly what you are looking for. Do not rely on a quick play session or on a paragraph from petfinder! The shelter workers or fosters homes know more about the cats than anyone else. When I adopted my cat Gabriel I spent quite a bit of time on the phone with his foster family. I made sure they knew that I was looking for a very social and loving cat and not the type to hide all day long. They matched me with the perfect cat. He really was the best match for me - and I wouldn't have known that from a paragraph on petfinder or a quick visit to the shelter. Now I am adopting again and once again I reached out to the foster family that had housed my cat Gabriel. I explained the personality of the cat I have right now and explained once more that I am looking for a very social and loving cat who will not be a wall flower and has the best likelihood of getting along with Gabe. In my situation they suggested that adopting a kitten would be my best bet. Then after knowing exactly what I am looking for, they were able to send me photographs of kittens they thought would do best in my home. Only at that point did I take looks into consideration and chose a black and white kitten who looks remarkably similar to the cat in my user name picture. ( That cat passed away.) Anyway I now feel that I have the best chance at getting the kitten who will be a great little sister and playmate for Gabriel and loving little attention where for me! In my case the cats have come from a shelter that is in the south but ships pets up north for their adoptions so, I can not express how vital it has been for me to really communicate with the shelter and really have their input in making sure the cats will hopefully be suited for each other and for me! Always, always, always base your adoption decisions on what the shelter workers or fosters homes have to say - and be upfront with them about your home situation, work hours and other pets you may already have. I really can not reiterate how important it is to talk with the people that have known your new little buddy's personality and let them make the suggestions as to what cat will be right for you. In the end the better you can describe what you have and what you are looking for can really impact your life and the cat(s) life's for the better! With that being said wish me good luck introducing the future Waverly-Grace to Gabriel in the near future!
I've got a new kitten (4 months old). I went and saw lots of kitties. I wanted a confident friendly kitten. I have to say, I probably didn't spend enough time with her in her foster home, but luckily it's worked out so far. I mean she did run up to me at the door, came and sat on my lap, let me pick her up and purred, she was also playful with her other kitty friends. I also noticed she really like to observe she was inquisitive and sat up straight looking at humans. She's lovely, allows me to pat her anywhere, not afraid of me touching her paws (loves it in fact). I put a measuring tape around her neck to measure it, didn't even notice. She barely meows in the car (and will introduce her to the car more often). She gives me kisses every morning and sleeps next to me. Doesn't love being picked up or to be on the lap too long (does like to sit on my chest) but she loves me being close by. Actually today, she did come to my lap and fell asleep (but I was in an uncomfortable position on the floor).
Me and my sister picked the kitten who was quiet. All her siblings were meowing up a storm.
This is such a great introduction for new cat owners! I would love to see a video on feline nutrition and what obligate carnivores are.
Great video. Sincerely mean that.
if i went in id be too tempted to take the lot
zach meechan lol clean house
Great advise, just what I was looking for!
i'm getting a kitten today
This helped me very much
hello.. came across your channel through suggested video. Thanks for sharing this video.. we ave 3 adopted cats..
thank you for this video Dr. Yes, they are wild! Love the one that hunted and killed it's pretend prey in the corner and the one that climbed on u. so cute!
As a prospective rookie new cat owner, what would be a shopping list of tings to get before selecting? Obvously, basics - food, litter box & litter, travel cage, toys; scratch post, what else? If intersted in getting a cat, should you considar getting two, to keep each othar company when a person isn't around? Is a single cat going to behave bad if he's leftalone for significant periods of time? On average, what is a balpark guestimate of annual veternary costs? Are cats disturbed if they arr exclusively kept indoors?
food and water bowls, a couple of cat beds (I cover mine with towels and replace with fresh ones when dirty), a brush, something to install or place near a window so they can look out and sun bathe, red laser dot (a must), treats, litter scoop. Vet bills in the beginning are more due to shots and spay/neuter. After that, if all goes well, just one visit a year for check ups. Mine are kept totally indoors and have no desire to go outside. My opinion is if you're getting a kitten, yes, being left alone for long periods would not be good. Not sure what you are considering a significant period of time. Be sure to get toys that are safe for play and that they can't swallow any parts or strings or feathers and such.
Amazing video thank you!!!❤❤❤❤
That grey one just keeps stealing the show! Lol =3
best intro ever.
I couldn't love this video more.
Nice channel i love animals help and raise them i choose all he cats if I could specially who r in difficult or bad state all need a good chance & a special way to treat them. I subscribe god bless u
Good advice. 😸
Men become so fascinating and interesting when they're fussing about with cats hahaha
Funny. I didn't notice a man was showing us how to pick out a cat until now. Well, he made good sense to me anyway.
lol the grey kitten really loved you!!!!
Thank you!
This is great but what if there is only in store in your country or very little and they don't allow u to meet the kittens and stay with them for a while before u buy them it's either buy or leave.
All good advice
I think the tabby with pink collar wants to adopt you!
Very informative. Thank you. Mu kitty ha i guess a heart attack
Was warming herself after mornin hunt on the heat vent, took about 5 screaming breaths, and died. Right in front of me. 3 years old. She was our mouser. As we live in the country w fields. But would come in at night to watch n participate in whatever we were doing. Then she would curl up n sleep with me. She came as a combo. Sisters that had to adopt together. The sister of mamba was a tuxedo cat, longer hair. No real social, and would attack our other pets. Food aggresive. Scratched us. She was not happy. No one was happy. We surrendered her to a no kill shelter full of volunteers to play with her daily in the cat jungle gym room. I think about her every day. Where is she. Why do i deserve a new kitten when i gave up on this one? Its hard. I dont know if ill ever find a lovey cat, mouse hunter.
im geting a cat sooon i can't wait 😍
Very good video
Thank you 👍👍👍😎
💗adorable 💕💗❤️😻😻
My friends cat had kittens so I really want one but I just can't decide between 2 of them
Great I am getting
What if you are a kid and you want to buy a kitten and your parents are saying to you to hurry up and pick a kitten but the man said that you should take your time so what should I do in this situation ?!
tell your parents you need to take your time oicking your life companion
omg thank u! my cat is wild but now i understand
Jeezez! that barking at the beginning and at the end gave me a micro infarction.
Hey your in NM AWESOME
Thanks*
I love kittens but I can never have one, when they grow up I'm allergic.
You should get a Siberian kitten. They are not 100% hypoallergenic, but many people with allergies can live with them with no problem.
+Sarah Bertram Get the Hairless Cat :D
+LemovePlanet I used to think that too, but what causes cat allergies are proteins in the cat's saliva, dander and urine that causes the allergy.
Rukan Parves ooooh, I see.
Good video
about how long is a safe amount to wait?
hi doc, i found 3 kittens under my house. they look around 4-6 weeks old - blue eyes and wobbly on their legs. i have not touched them yet as the mom is still nursing. the mom is a stray. i was considering adopting them but not sure if its a good idea. they hissed at me when they saw me for starters. what advise can you give me to help tame them and get them used to people. when is a good time to handle them? looking forward to hearing from you.
This is probably too late...
I was in a similar situation but the kittens were only a few days old.
I took them and bottle fed them so they wouldn't become feral.
l'm in love with kitten's and cat's but that's the same thing as well?
I am really too easily entertained by cats.
And the problem with that is???
you dont choose a fur baby they choose you
😍
The world needs a crazy cat man 😂😸
I feel like the "greatest kitten" for you, is the one the one that you are drawn to the most. I followed that instinct, JUST DO IT
I am going to adopt, but from a responsible breeder, my brother lives with me and he’s allergic to cats.
I see those toys the cats are playing with and all I see is Linear Foreign Bodies. Those toys are completely unsafe for play and I hope they aren't left in when they cats are unsupervised.
How can I recognize, which will be the most cuddly? More affectionate/cuddly kittens are those playful or those who hidden themselves? Please some advise. Thank you. :-)
I always wanted a cat to train, I thought I'd picked the perfect kitten, but she doesn't like any treats at all, and refuses to even I'm acknowledge speaking. I'll be moving to my own apartment soon so I'll be getting her a companion, is there any indicators for an intelligent trainable cat/kitten?
damn,i thought ALL kittens were great !!!
This video somehow also true to pick a lifetime's spouse
Yo, dr nichol my guy, you seem like a better friend then these cats tbh lmao
Not really it’s never true they can be shy and be the opposite when u take them home. So point is go for the one u set ur eyes on.
that collar looks tight 😰