Here are the basics of my situation:
- I'm considering getting a cat. (Yes, a rescue cat.)
- I'm scared shitless.
- I've never owned a cat.
- I don't know if I can afford to keep a cat in the style to which it is entitled.
- I need your advice and info.
I'm a dog person, you see. Perhaps only because I've had dogs before, never cats. But I do love dogs: especially labradors and variations thereof.
My mom was allergic to cats. They were simply never around while I was growing up. None of my relatives owned a cat -- dogs only -- surely that is some sort of discrimination right there.
Consequently, I never got to know cats and how wonderful they are.
Well, now that I'm past 40, I figure I can cast off old prejudices and rethink the cat situation. Some of my closest friends either have cats now or have had them in the past, and they love their pooties. When I visit their pooties, they're loving and nice to me.
My 10 year-old loves cats; he has one at his father's house. He'd help me take care of a cat if we had one here.
In short, here are my questions and concerns:
How expensive is it to take care of a cat? (Shots, other vet bills, food, kitty accoutrements, etc.) Remember: I'd be adopting one.
How easy is it to become a "cat person" if you don't have any experience with cats, cat temperaments, cat health issues, cat needs and likes, etc?
I don't want to get into a situation that either I or the cat will regret, so I want to think this through carefully.
Advice, info, testimonials all gratefully accepted!!!
UPDATE: Thanks SOOO much to everyone. The comments below are incredibly helpful in my planning.
One last question: can I expect a cat to jump on me in the middle of the night? 'Cuz that would probably freak me out.