by Leigh-Ann Andersen

Created on: December 03, 2010

Finding the right kitten for you and your family is not simply a matter of walking into the nearest pet shop and picking the cutest one. At least, it shouldn’t be. No two kittens are alike, so you have to take into consideration the needs of the individual kitten, and whether or not those needs are compatible with you and your existing life.

You have to first decide if you’d like to adopt a kitten or purchase a purebred. Read about the characteristics of each breed so you know what to expect, but don’t discount the mixed breeds to be found at your local animal shelter. If you do choose a purebred, research the breeder carefully.

Though cats have a reputation for aloofness, they are in truth loving and affectionate, not to mention amusing. They are also clean and very self-sufficient. Most cats are more than happy to lounge in the sun all day waiting for you to return home from work. They are also supremely adaptable, and can, in general, fit into the busy schedules of the modern-day family. However, just because they can be left at home for hours at a time doesn’t mean they should be. Ideally, you should be able to spend at least a few hours a day with your new friend.

Kittens, just like people, come in many different personalities. There are kittens who are painfully shy, kittens who are clowns, and kittens who want nothing more than to sit on your lap all evening. When choosing a kitten, you should observe it closely. Watch how it plays with its littermates. A kitten who is right in the middle of the fun, bounding and tumbling with the others, is likely in good health and developing as any kitten should. The kitten who hangs back and watches might be feeling ill, or it might have the kind of personality that requires a little more patience and nurturing from its new family.

It’s a good idea to wiggle a couple fingers in front of a kitten, or dangle a toy or piece of string just about its head. Does the kitten scamper over to investigate, or does it back away? A confident, happy kitten will be eager to examine anything new. A kitten who is nervous or timid will not.

If you have other pets or children at home, the curious kitten is a better choice. This kitten will adjust more quickly and be more likely to get along with the other family members. The timid kitten will likely hide under the nearest sofa, stressing everyone involved.

Regardless of temperament, the only suitable kitten is a healthy kitten. Observe the health and general

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