What's the best route to take in getting a cat?

[XXXNoahXXX]

My live-in girlfriend is obsessed with cats and is going through feline withdrawal since moving away from hers. She mentions her desire for a cat daily, so I figure come Feb. 14th, I'll finally break down and get her one.

SO what is the best way? Pet Store? Cragislist? Animal Hospital/Animal Care Adoption?

Any specific type that I should look for? Obviously I would prefer a kitten, but will there be a lot available or should I wait til Spring?

The ones from the Animal Care MSPCA place come with all shots and stuff for $125. How much is the startup/annual costs of keeping a cat?

Already got landlord approval, anything else I should know/do?


Any info would be appreciated.


(Located in Boston)

[blinden84]

You are SO goign to regret this.

I'm serious.

That's my advice.

[XXXNoahXXX]

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You are SO goign to regret this.

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Wow, thanks for the information!

Perhaps some details when you can spare a moment?


Edit: Also, to be clear, I will never be responsible for feeding, litter box changing, brushing, etc.

[solids]

I would adopt one from a kennel, if I were you. So many cats are put down every year, so why not save one?

Also, I generally dislike cats. They seem to be bitchy, distrustful, and on edge. But, every black and white cat I've ever known (their fur resembles a cow, I suppose), have been extremely nice. So go for one of those kind, I guess.

[samjjones]

There are always kittens available.

If you go to a shelter, make sure all of the shots are ALREADY done. They can get expensive.

Figure about one can of food per day per cat, so that's about $.25-.40 each. Litter is about $8 per 35lb. bag. That should last you about a month.

My wife worked in a vet's office, so I can get information re: specific things. We have a couple of cats.

[hamsamich]

[Alobar]

dump your GF. I've never met a chick who was crazy into cats that was normal.

That said, just take her to the local shelter on valentines day and let her pick one out. Sure its not as "awesome" as her opening a box to find a kitty, but in the end I think it will be better cuz she'll get to pick out a cat that she has a connection with. Plus if you dont tell her where you are going it will still be a great suprise for her

[XXXNoahXXX]

[ QUOTE ]
dump your GF. I've never met a chick who was crazy into cats that was normal.

That said, just take her to the local shelter on valentines day and let her pick one out. Sure its not as "awesome" as her opening a box to find a kitty, but in the end I think it will be better cuz she'll get to pick out a cat that she has a connection with. Plus if you dont tell her where you are going it will still be a great suprise for her

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Yeah I was thinking about this. Just making sure it can all be done in a day, and bring her there as a surprise. My only fear is them putting a guilt trip on her into getting some old geezer they're about to put down.

Also, she's not "crazy about cats." She doesn't wear cat clothes, hates Hello Kitty, but just really wants one as a pet.

While in St. Maarten on vacation (which has big stray dog/cat problems) she made me buy a bunch of cat food to leave out for them at night.

[samjjones]

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While in St. Maarten on vacation (which has big stray dog/cat problems) she made me buy a bunch of cat food to leave out for them at night.

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Speaking from past experience, be aware that this behavior is often the gateway to getting more cats. You don't want to be those people.

[blinden84]

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Edit: Also, to be clear, I will never be responsible for feeding, litter box changing, brushing, etc.

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Yeah, me either, good luck with that...