Choice: Purebred or Domestic?
The old term "alley cat" has been replaced with the term "domestic cat." Domestic cats may be either long-haired or short-haired. Persons who wish to breed cats for profit or to whom appearances and status are important should choose a purebred cat. The animal should be obtained directly from breeders, who should supply pedigree and registration papers. Purebred cats usually are kept indoors because of their value and the risk of accident or theft. For this reason, most owners prefer the less valuable and sometimes hardier domestic, or mixed-breed, cat.
Domestic cats are best obtained from a known neighborhood source where there has been a single litter, where other cats in the household appear healthy, and where the mother's temperament is known. Many an attractive and healthy cat or kitten has been adopted as a homeless waif from an animal shelter, or pound.
Choice: Kitten or Cat?
Almost all kittens are attractive, but some grow up to be uninteresting or ill-natured cats. In choosing a kitten, look for one that is lively, friendly, and gentle. The body should be plump, the coat clean, and the eyes and nose free from discharges. The older a cat is when you adopt it, the more you will know of its temperament and personality. Depending on the cat, even a mature animal may adjust well.
Adjusting to a New Home
Cats that have never known the pleasures of the out of doors make excellent indoor pets. Those that from infancy have gone in and out freely may adjust poorly if required to live strictly indoors.
When a cat is taken into a new home it should be allowed time to adjust. Introductions to individuals, to strange surroundings, and to other pets should be gradual.