Adopting a cat is a tedious process. It requires you to consider various factors such as breed, gender, and age. Age can be a major factor in cats because a cat’s age can impact its attitude, health, and overall well-being. Adopting an older cat requires a lot of research and background information to ensure you are making the right decision.
According to data, cats aged 1.5 years and older have an adoption rate of just 60% and this number keeps shrinking as the cat’s age increases. But why is that? All kittens grow up to be cats anyway. While adopting cats the major factors that are considered include breed, gender, and health.
While these are the main factors that account for a cat’s well-being and addition to your home, people also consider age a highly important factor. While there is no denying the charms of an adorable kitten there are also certain advantages that come with adopting an older cat. In the read ahead we’ll be highlighting the pros and cons of adopting an older cat so it’s easy for you to decide.
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Pros And Cons of Adopting An Older Cat
When we say older cats we are referring to cats that are two years old and above. The major benefit of adopting older cats is that they have a basic training set in place. Whether they lived on the streets or in a previous home these cats will have some sense of basic habits, mainly potty training.
Furthermore, older cats have a pretty simple diet while kittens specifically need to start with softer food and may need various diet changes at different points in their life. When we say older cats we are referring to cats two years old and above. The major benefits of adopting older cats are in their nature and basic training.
Older cats are known to have a calmer personality than kittens.Older cats are also known to be a lot more affectionate and cuddly as compared to kittens. This calm nature makes them perfect for first-time cat parents.
But with this age, there can also be many concerns, especially for cats that are older than six years old. Elderly cats can have various health issues that may need to be kept in mind when taking care of them.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Already Trained | Health Issues: Potential for age-related ailments |
| Known Personality | Shorter Lifespan: May have fewer years together |
| Lower Energy Levels | Established Habits: Harder to change behaviors |
| Less Destructive Behavior | Attachment to Previous Owner |
| Gratitude and Companionship | Limited Time for Bonding |
| Save a Life | Unknown History: Possible traumatic experiences |
Are Older Cats Better To Adopt
Yes, older cats are better to adopt. There are three main advantages to adopting an older cat. Firstly if they lived in a home before they are likely already trained, this reduces all the hassle and clean up that comes with potty training kittens.
Secondly, behavior-wise older cats are more calm and loving. They don’t have the high energy levels that kittens have hence they are less likely to destroy things in the house such as bite cables, scratch furniture, etc.
Lastly, by adopting an older cat you can save a life. Some cats endure animal abuse and go through traumatic instances so by adopting them you can provide them companionship and give them a happy life.
Are Older Cats Harder To Take Care of?
All that said, adopting older cats isn’t just sunshine and rainbows. One of the biggest disadvantages of adopting an older cat is that you don’t get to spend a lot of time with them. The average lifespan of a healthy cat is 12 to 18 years so if you adopt an older cat that limits the time you have with them.
Secondly, older cats can develop or already have health issues that may require extra care and attention. Some major health issues could also require surgeries and constant check-ups which could be expensive.
Lastly, older cats have already developed habits that would be harder to change. Kittens on the other hand develop behaviors according to their surroundings hence they are much easier to train and control. Moreover, older cats who lived in a different home previously might be attached to their previous owners hence they will have a harder time adjusting and building a bond with you.
Adopting an Older Cat Quiz
Is it the Right Decision for You? Answer the following questions honestly to find out if adopting an older cat is the right choice for you:
Review of Older Cat Owners after Adoption
I fostered kittens, but I’ve only adopted older cats. Older cats are so much easier to deal with, in my opinion. They are less likely to keep you up at night. They are less likely to break stuff or injure themselves. The con is that you have fewer years to spend with them before they leave you.
Sodonewithidiots
My Harvey, my ragdoll cat was about 3-4 when we got him, and honestly no complaints. He’s super affectionate and playful but not super needy, and we can leave him alone overnight if there’s an emergency, since he has an automatic feeder.
raucouscaucus7756