Misty is 10 years young
November is Adopt A Senior Cat Month. As a cat lover, I've always preached the benefits of adopting an older cat. I love it that I can see the personality in an adult cat. With a kitten, you really don't know what you're getting as their personality is still developing. That's just my personal opinion, but at my age I don't like surprises.
A lot of first time cat owner's want to adopt a kitten so they can "bond" and "play" together. This may be fine for some. I can tell you from experience it's a nightmare to come into a room and find "hurricane kitty" has broken half of your grandmother's collectibles and has now moved on to destroying your house plants!
Older cats are more settled. Many are content to just be lap cats and bed buddies. Their personalities are easier to read before the adoption so there are no surprises. Their litter box habits are better and you won't have to worry as much about foot attacks in the middle of the night.
Senior cats are also less likely to be injured by a child and need less supervision. Having a kitten in the house is like trying to keep up with a two year old child. Older cats are also less likely to become ill and stand a much better chance at recovering if they do.
My all time personal number one favorite reason for adopting a senior cat is this: they're GRATEFUL! I have a 10 year old declawed cat named Misty. We rescued her at the beginning of the year after she ended up on death row after being adopted out then returned due to declawing behavior issues. Misty, as well as my other older cats, always has an expression on her face that clearly says "THANK YOU!" She's a very calm cat and enjoys laying around the house or in a lap being the center of attention.
I've only had one rescued kitten throw me a grateful expression. I believe the shelter experience fades from their memory soon after they leave. Not so with my seniors. They let me know every day how thankful they are to be living in a loving home. They never forget that feeling of abandonment as one kitten after another was adopted while they waited quietly in a cage. Passed over day after day as people adopted the young and adorable.
Yes, I'll choose an older cat any time over a kitten. Cats are living well into their twenties these days with improved vet care and informed caregivers. There's really no reason not to adopt a senior cat. Unless you just LIKE having your feet attacked during the middle of the night.
Readers, please share your experience with older cats. I'll bet I'm not the only one who prefers them.
Elisa
