Congratulations! You’re about to adopt a new kitten and enter a fabulous and fulfilling feline friendship. Besides lots of love and play, though, there are many things to consider as you’re deciding how to add this little furry friend to your family.

Breed: Do you want a sweet mixed-breed domestic short- or long-haired kitten from the shelter? Or do you prefer a purebred kitten with a pedigree? Cats vary in physical appearance and personality type; this can be breed-dependent. It’s a good idea to make decisions prior to your search, as you may choose to examine shelters, contact cat breeders, or evaluate breed-specific rescue groups. Please keep in mind though that there are lots of cats and kittens that desperately need a home. Even if you are looking for a specific breed, you might want to consider contacting breed rescues.

Age: Does the idea of a tiny, adorable, helpless, mewling fluff-ball kitten appeal to you? Or do you want a more robust, older, and self-sufficient kitty? Perhaps you don’t want to deal with a juvenile at all and prefer an adult cat? Kittens are incredibly active, full of energy, and require training and lots of attention. In general, most kittens should be fully weaned from their mothers and eating solid food prior to starting off in a new home. Early removal from moms may result in health or behavior problems; some speculate that kittens who are taken from their mothers too early may nurse inanimate objects and even their owners.

Indoors or outdoors: This is a tough decision, and one you’ll need to make once your cat reaches adult age. In general, indoor cats live safer, longer lives, and are not as susceptible to cat fights, cars, encounters with wild animals, parasites, infectious diseases and other risks unique to outdoor exposure. Conversely, outdoor cats may not be as prone to obesity or behavior issues. If you are grappling with these decisions the best course is to speak openly with your veterinarian about the optimal choices for your household.

House Size: Do you have a big house or a tiny studio apartment? No matter where you reside, please make sure to give kitty a safe and private escape spot. Also, make sure that you have adequate room for storing toys, food, and litter boxes. Litter boxes can become particularly odiferous, and you’ll typically need more than one for your kitten. Also determine whether certain rooms in the house will be “off limits” to the kitten. “Kitten-proof” your home by keeping medications and cleaners locked up and appliances closed off. Restrict your kitten’s access to yarn, string, paper clips, staples, and hair bands—all are commonly-identified foreign bodies, which if swallowed can be injurious or even fatal.

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