Getting a cat

flimsier

I'm a fairly experienced cat owner; I enjoy training them as kittens (well that's 2 in my life so far) and I like getting them from rescue homes with personalities already.

However, I have a 6 month old. I'd like a cat as well. In a few months, my little one will be strong enough to push a cat off her (not that it will get near her unsupervised until she's a toddler).

Which do I go for? An older cat set in it's ways, or a kitten that will grow up with her?

(I know I'll get a load of people saying "don't get one" and I'm happy to listen to those, as long as they're reasoned)

flimsier

I should point out that I've been with my partner 2 years, and we've never owned a cat. She's ambivilent about the idea. I love cats.

babyshoes

I can see what you are saying, but I think you may want to wait a few more months until your daughter is old enough to understand and follow instructions like 'don't pull the cat's tail'... Otherwise, I see the possibility of claws and tears, no matter what age of cat you get.

It might be different if you already had a cat and knew his/her personality, or could get an older one known to be good with little children, but introducing an unknown element at this stage could lead to trouble, unless you were lucky enough to end up with a laid back, older cat, rather than a grumpy one with quick claws, or a kitten who doesn't yet understand that playing with claws out is naughty because people skin is thinner than kitty skin...

If you are determined to go ahead now, you probably want an older cat whose personality you can get to know as much as possible in advance though a number of visits - I am sure the rescue staff will be happy to help you chose one suitable for a home with a toddler, as they will have at least some idea of the cats' personalities from looking after them!

spike7451

I agree,I would go with an older moglet.Too ofter they (like my Daisy) are overlooked in the rescue centers in favor of the kittens (same as Black & White cats,Black cats & White cats)

Birtish Short Hair are said to be very docile,low energy cats (What Daisy is) & are good with children due to there temperament.I'd say go with a cat around 2-3 years old & good luck..