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Online Journalism Story

Adopting a cat can be a rewarding experience, but people are unaware of all that is involved after signing the adoption papers.
Whether it is a kitten or an older cat, there are changes that take place for both pet and the new owner. When bringing a new cat home the new owner has to take into consideration if they have other pets and how they will adapt to the new cat.
The most important factor when adopting a new cat is the cost.
The cost of adopting a cat all depends on where you are adopting them from. At the Frederick County Animal Control in Frederick, MD, the cost of adopting a kitten or cat under 5 years of age is $97.50. There is a $20 reduced fee when adopting two cats at the same time. All cats that are 5 years or older also receive the same reduced fee and cats over 10 receive further discounts.
The adoption fee is just the initial cost when adopting a cat or any animal. There may also be a separate fee if you plan to have your cat spayed or neutered.  Many people tend to forget the long term cost when adopting animals.  Long term costs include food, litter, toys, vet visits, licensing for local regulations, collars and identification tags, and basic grooming supplies.
Another factor that should be taken into consideration when adopting a cat should be the time. Kittens especially require a lot of affection and attention. Kittens have a very high energy level and may not sleep through the night. They do develop their own routine over time, but it all depends on the kitten. Kittens also don’t like to be alone. When adopting kittens from a shelter or foundation, they usually would like you to adopt them in pairs. This works out better because both kittens have the same energy level and can keep each other company while you spend time away from home. There are relaxing remedies for cats to calm there fears, but aren’t good for kitten.
“Relaxing formulas are typically recommended for cats 6 weeks and older. They aren’t recommended for kittens. However there are some out there if you read the labels and recommendations.” Nichelle Watts of Pet Smart in Frederick advises.
Sentry, Whisker City Calm Down, Sentry HC Good Behavior Calming Collar for Cats, and Nature’s Miracle No Stress Calming Spry for Cats are several calming remedies that are available for hyper or stressed cats.
In addition to taking the time for introducing a new cat to the family, the home has to be prepared as well. People who adopt are usually unaware of the dangers that are in their home for a new cat. According to Foxie G. Foundation owner, Laurie Calhoun, little things are often overlooked.
“Plants shouldn’t be in the home and things shouldn’t be left out like grocery or shopping bags. If someone comes in who’s never had a cat before, we do educate them on that.”
If there are other animals at home, introductions of a new pet should be done gradually. It also depends on the other animals at home. If a person adopting has a dog at home, the introductions should be supervised. According to Fixit-Foundation, to monitor introductions is the best advice. The initial instinct of the cat and dog is to fight, but it is best when the owner is there to intervene and make peace amongst the two.
“I have a total of three cats and a dog at home. The cats were used to having each other around and were near dogs before. There can be fights between all the animals where I do have to step in and break it up. But for the most part, they do get along.” Catherine Ford says about her animals.
While caring and making time for your new pet, a new thing amongst adopting a cat is pet insurance. Pet insurance covers accidents and illnesses. Pet insurance like ASPCA Pet Health allows you to visit any licensed veterinarian and the insurance helps you afford the care your pet needs. The concept of pet insurance is usually not known to new pet owners.
“I know people who have used it and liked it. I am undecided of it because it’s becoming marketed more and more,” says Laurie Calhoun.
Adopting a new cat takes responsibility and thought should be put into it. A cat that has been at a shelter for a while will appreciate being adopted and taken home. When adopting an animal, a person should think long term and not short term. There are things that can turn up in life that make it difficult to keep an animal, but the overall process of adopting a cat is so that the cat can have a forever home.