Cats rule the Internet and the world. Their videos occupy much of the space in our digital domain.
According to a study done by Animal Planet in 2012, more than half of Americans own a cat. That prompts me to ask: are kittens easier to manage than cats?
When you look at it from that perspective, it seems pretty simple at first. But there is so much to answer with this question — so many aspects that need to be considered for a full-on analysis of this topic. So without further ado, let’s dive in!
1. Behavioral differences that you must know
When you adopt a cat rather than a kitten, you know precisely what you’ll essentially receive in terms of physical qualities and personality traits.
Adult cats specifically are the best company for the elderly since they are calmer, have a predictable behavior pattern, and can basically look after themselves, which for the most part is immensely appreciated.
- Long story short- older cats are particularly self-contained and do not need continual care, or so for the most part, though.
- On the other hand, Kittens are unpredictable and tend to crave attention more than an adult cat would.
Having particularly said that, on days when you’re unable to spend time with the little one, it is pretty certain that your kitten might go dramatic, and she’s bound to particularly make sure that you don’t get to sleep just yet.
2. Energy levels
Kittens are adorable, pretty little bundles of fluff, but they require a lot of your time and attention. When they are left alone for prolonged periods, you wouldn’t want to see their frustrated side.
It’s natural to anticipate the kittens (who apparently are curious in their own way) tearing up and down generally your curtains and over everything they shouldn’t be (good luck with that one).
- They tend to be more active, and it is almost inevitable that they will emerge all over the place, even if a person is attempting to give them a silent treatment by avoiding them. Yes, well, it wouldn’t work. In dire need of attention, they might come running under your feet only for you to trip and fall.
An otherwise mature, pretty much older cat wouldn’t go just as crazy but essentially stay far from sticking to one’s knitting.
So, no matter whether you adopt or buy an older cat, it will always possess a sense of predictability and composed moves, i.e., very contrary to popular belief.
3. The Upkeep- maintenance levels checklist
Choosing a kitten versus a kind of older cat ensures that generally, your companion pet has been carefully cared for throughout its development.
While a kitten will keep you very active as a parent all day and night due to their demanding temperament, maintaining and nurturing a kitten is quite an expensive endeavor one may have to endure until almost a year.
- And, without a doubt, just like you baby-proof a home, you’d have to be considerate and view the house like a kitten. You’d mostly have to get rid of electric appliances, chords, and anything that might look generally intriguing but is pretty sure to cause harm to the delicate ones.
Key takeaway- Any kind of older cat will mostly be affectionate towards you and provide companionship just like a kitten does but with a lot of lesser work. This is surely a plus point if you’re someone who can’t stay and look after your pet at all times.
4. Ease of socialization
The obvious choice, you should also consider adopting a cat.
First, it’s critical to dispel the idea that pretty much older cats are incapable of building bonds with humans now that they’ve entered an unfamiliar environment.
On the other hand, older cats adapt pretty well, and because they are mature in their own way, they would mostly understand and fit in quite well in just a matter of time.
- If you tend to travel a lot or don’t stay at home much due to a full-time job, an older cat will make an excellent housekeeper! They are more likely to remain calm and keep up with their energy just fine.
- In terms of socializing with an otherwise unfamiliar world, older cats handle the situations better and are essentially open to getting acquainted with others around you. On the other hand, Kittens might get a little bit too scared for all situations or lose track of their otherwise noticeable energy when around strangers.
5. Know your requirements
Compared to a kitten, a cat is usually better for a family with small kids.
Imagine you might have kittens who mistake your cheek for a squishy toy and romp all over, leaving your face with scratches and bites only to look cute and without any hint of regret on their face.
On the other hand, senior folks are sometimes unprepared for a kitten’s high activity level and would prefer the company of very calm adults or particularly senior cats.
After all, their goal is to usually choose a fluff companion, mostly the cats who take care of their owners and will subtly provide emotional support.
6. The Aftermath of Life long care
- Apart from the cost of immunizations, the owner is supposed to take care of a kitten since she is more prone to specifically injure herself in her first years of life, which may generally be upsetting for both the owner and the pet itself.
- Furthermore, because of their quick development pattern, kittens specifically require additional calories in their diet, making it critical to regularly monitor the little one’s nutritional intake, i.e. adding to the already hectic level of responsibility.
It’s also worth noting that kittens are most absorbent between the ages of 2 and 14, and one unpleasant experience can particularly have a lifelong impact in a significant way.
So, this is a crucial stage wherein you’d have to be alert at every point of the day with kittens.
7. Don’t get carried away with the cuteness!
Even if you come along with a person who isn’t fond of cats, their heart is bound to go awestruck when a kitten passes by subtly.
Not only are they covered in fuzz with big eyes and precious pink paws, eagerly exploring the world around them in a significant way, but the cuteness comes and you cannot spell ‘kitten’ without a lot of care and strict supervision.
- It’s possible that falling in love at first sight isn’t the best way to find a buddy for whatever reasons. Seek out what you want, and which of the two would bring out the best of you and vice versa.
- You’d want to focus and prioritize on personality and conduct when seeking a feline companion. It’s tempting to pick the cutest kitten or the one with the most adorable and delicate softball fur. But if you’re not well-matched, it’s just a matter of time when the cuteness wears off.
While an adult cat may need less attention during the first year, kittens can keep you entertained for hours as they make you their particular play buddy (because why not!)
It’s important to give yourself enough time to, for the most part, consider whether a cat or kitten essentially is good for you and particularly your lifestyle.
Bottom Line
As stated above, some factors are likely to affect your choices in a big way. Adopting a cat or kitten is a big decision that will impact your life for the next 15 to 20 years, which is quite the deal.
And when it comes to determining whether to adopt an adult cat or a kitten, there mostly is no right or wrong answer. It is entirely your choice to make.
What matters is that you particularly sit back and define your opinion and seek out a responsible breeder or shelter that can provide you with information, advice, and assistance that might help you clear the whiplash caused by the kitten-cat dilemma.