Some thoughts on Cats
It is said that some people are cat people, and some people are dog people. I don't know if I go along with that, having happily given house room to both over the years. One thing for sure, cats do have their own distinct personalities centreing around their independence, and it is this feature that makes them unattractive as pets to some, as well as their hunting instince which results in them catching and tormenting mice and birds!
It is said that some people are cat people, and some people are dog people. I don't know if I go along with that, having happily given house room to both over the years. One thing for sure, cats do have their own distinct personalities centreing around their independence, and it is this feature that makes them unattractive as pets to some, as well as their hunting instince which results in them catching and tormenting mice and birds!
A cat as a child's pet
Children love cats - they are just the right size to be picked up and cuddled, in many ways resembling a living teddy bear. Kittens are so sweet and adorable - no child can resist them!
Children love cats - they are just the right size to be picked up and cuddled, in many ways resembling a living teddy bear. Kittens are so sweet and adorable - no child can resist them!
What is the best age for a child to have a cat?
Before the age of 10 a kitten introduced into the house will be very much the adult's responsibility. Most cat's prefer the more gentle adult petting, rather than a child's rough play. Adult supervision of a younger child's interaction with a new kitten will be necessary to prevent injury to either party - that said though, both will soon learn!
Unless you close doors firmly a cat will consider the whole of the house as its terriotory, and will choose the softest place to sleep. This could be your baby's cot! Although probably the actual incidences of an infant's death from being smothered by a cat is low, it is a risk which no parent would want to take. Care must be taken if there is, or is going to be, a baby around.
Before the age of 10 a kitten introduced into the house will be very much the adult's responsibility. Most cat's prefer the more gentle adult petting, rather than a child's rough play. Adult supervision of a younger child's interaction with a new kitten will be necessary to prevent injury to either party - that said though, both will soon learn!
Unless you close doors firmly a cat will consider the whole of the house as its terriotory, and will choose the softest place to sleep. This could be your baby's cot! Although probably the actual incidences of an infant's death from being smothered by a cat is low, it is a risk which no parent would want to take. Care must be taken if there is, or is going to be, a baby around.
"I am sure my Siamese cat thinks it is a dog - it even chase balls and retrieve them for me to throw again!"
Cats have claws - and are not afraid to use them! The level of tolerance a cat has for a child will depend upon the individual, and their experiences of children. A cat or kitten which is picked up and mauled too much may well react by striking out whenever a child comes within range. If your child is young you will have to ensure that they realise that this is a living animal with feelings, and not a cuddly toy, and therefore has to be treated gently, and with respect.
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Cats
