Pet Care With Dr. Sandi Sawchuk

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• Veterinarian Suggests Things To Consider Before Adopting A Cat

  Participating in “Adopt A Shelter Cat Month” this June might involve much more work than some prospective pet owners might anticipate.

  Dr. Sandi Sawchuk, a professor of veterinary medicine at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, suggests people who are thinking of adopting consider carefully before going to the shelter or pet store.

  “The success of adoption has been linked to the amount of research and reading that an owner has done prior to adoption,” Sawchuk said.

  When adding a new species to the house without knowing much about them, it’s more likely for the pet owner to start off doing the wrong thing, she said. For example, not providing the animal with the right resources or not having an animal that is compatible with other pets.

  In order to avoid these problems, it becomes essential to weigh the financial, medical and psychological factors when considering adoption, she said.

  Sawchuck said that more homework done on the adopted animal beforehand makes for a better situation for the pet owner and the new pet.

  Especially if interested in a kitten, there is a financial commitment for 15 to 20 years. That includes providing food, multiple litter boxes, milk-feeding stations and of course, veterinary visits.

  Regarding the veterinarian, it’s important to schedule an appointment with the vet within the first few days of adopting a new cat, she said.

  “We want to make sure that we get them as healthy as we can, letting them have their own efficiency apartment with their own litter box and their own food and get them in to see a veterinarian ASAP,” she said.

  Treating any medical conditions the pet might have will reduce the risk of spreading any diseases to other pets at home.

  Besides medical problems, there are also psychological preparations to make such as knowing what type of personality would fit best in your home environment.

  “It’s important to visit with the cat and not just take the first cat that you see,” she said.

  Cats that are going to come up to people and show some interest are the cats that are going to be able to adapt to change a bit better.

  Adopt A Shelter Cat month takes place throughout the month of June. For more information, experts advise people to visit their local animal shelter.