It's true that the cat is a "low maintenance" pet when compared to the dog. They're generally smaller, cleaner, quieter, and don't require outdoor space or multiple daily walks.
But confusion between "low" and "no" maintenance has contributed to the overwhelming problem of stray and abandoned cats here in Fayetteville and everywhere else we look. Cats are not decorative items, notwithstanding their beauty. We have bred them for 7,000 years to be dependent upon us for their physical and emotional needs. These needs should be carefully considered before the decision to acquire a cat is made.
Cats are completely dependent on us for their physical needs--food and shelter and health care. Their reputation for "self-sufficient" status is primarily myth. These are not tigers or leopards, they are house cats. Cats that are allowed to wander outdoors suffer terribly from injury from dogs, wildlife, and other cats. They are hit by cars by the thousands. And they are exposed to numerous fatal diseases and parasites. If they do so well "out there," why are shelters swamped by sick and injured cats? They've been bred to be pets. They're not wild any more. They need to be kept inside--it isn't cruel; it's common sense.
Cats are dependent on us for their emotional needs. While they may not slobber all over us like the goofy dog does, they need the care and attention of their people. Love and quality play time need to be a daily routine. Cats who are denied this interaction frequently develop behavioral problems and end up abandoned--turned out or turned in to shelters. The price of inattention is too often the death of the cat.
Cats live a long, long time. That cute little kitten, if properly cared for, will live 15-20 years! (Unless you let them out--then plan on 5-7 instead.) They'll still be around, needing us, when most of the people we know today will be memories.
Cats are prolific. If not neutered, they produce vast numbers of offspring. If there are not homes for the ones we've already got, what are we going to do with all those kittens? They must be spayed or neutered.
Since the ancient Egyptians brought the desert cat into their homes some 8,000 years ago, humankind has loved, hated, revered, and mistreated the cat. Somehow they have persevered, providing beauty and grace, love and laughter to those who live with them. They deserve better than they have gotten from us. So please, be sure you're ready to do the right things before you bring that kitty home with you.
--Animal Services Officer Bruce McKane