Hello all you cat lovers out there
I'm more of a dog person, and I'm actively involved in my local Humane Society with the care of their dogs. I'm a university student living away from my parents (though they are a close drive).
I need some cat advice. Any help is greatly appreaciated.
The Situation:
In a recent phone conversation with my mother, she mentioned that she was interesting in seeing what animals were at the shelter where I volunteer. She also asked if Petland is still where it used to be.
Now this is a MAJOR thing for my mom who has never liked animals in the house. The reason I moved out is because I rescued a puppy and she didn't want it inside anymore. (My dad, however, loves animals).
My little sister (16 years old) has always loved cats, and has been asking for one for the past 5 years or so. I think my parents are considering getting her one for Christmas. I know getting a pet for Christmas is usually frowned upon, however my parents are very clean and careful people and will not get a cat without careful consideration.
I've always been the huge animal lover in my family, and since I've had my dog for 3 years as of Dec 23, I have a pretty good idea what animal ownership is all about. I'm taking my mom to the shelter tomorrow to look at the 40+ available felines. I am going to make sure she does NOT get it from a pet shop.
Now for the real question:
What sorts of things should I bring up before they decide to get her one for sure?
Issues already addressed are:
-cat will be indoors only
-Initial expenses are looked after, ongoing expenses are expected
-My parents live near both a college and university, one of which my sister is expected to attend. She can live at home while she studies, so leaving home is not a problem.
Sorry for the long post, any replies are greatly appreciated.
I'm more of a dog person, and I'm actively involved in my local Humane Society with the care of their dogs. I'm a university student living away from my parents (though they are a close drive).
I need some cat advice. Any help is greatly appreaciated.
The Situation:
In a recent phone conversation with my mother, she mentioned that she was interesting in seeing what animals were at the shelter where I volunteer. She also asked if Petland is still where it used to be.
Now this is a MAJOR thing for my mom who has never liked animals in the house. The reason I moved out is because I rescued a puppy and she didn't want it inside anymore. (My dad, however, loves animals).
My little sister (16 years old) has always loved cats, and has been asking for one for the past 5 years or so. I think my parents are considering getting her one for Christmas. I know getting a pet for Christmas is usually frowned upon, however my parents are very clean and careful people and will not get a cat without careful consideration.
I've always been the huge animal lover in my family, and since I've had my dog for 3 years as of Dec 23, I have a pretty good idea what animal ownership is all about. I'm taking my mom to the shelter tomorrow to look at the 40+ available felines. I am going to make sure she does NOT get it from a pet shop.
Now for the real question:
What sorts of things should I bring up before they decide to get her one for sure?
Issues already addressed are:
-cat will be indoors only
-Initial expenses are looked after, ongoing expenses are expected
-My parents live near both a college and university, one of which my sister is expected to attend. She can live at home while she studies, so leaving home is not a problem.
Sorry for the long post, any replies are greatly appreciated.