Debating over a Cat....

Take the cat!!! YOu already know it's disposition and have bonded with it. A cat is quick enough to escape a toddler if it wants to. The benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. Shedding is part of cat ownership-just deal with it.

Lanta,
I agree with Tara. Cats are great but they require lots of tlc. I absolutly love cats but my hubby wont let me get one cause of the litter box( cats are messy with the litter). The problem with the shedding either you can deal with it or you cant. Cats are going to shed reguardless. You can have it shaved but i must say that it isnt very fair to the cat. That is its way of staying warm if you take that away it will be cold and is likely to get a cold. Either way make the decision that is best for you. Good luck.
A.

If you really love the cat, I would say yes. But only if you are willing to invest a lot of time and a fair amount of money into caring for the cat. They need to visit the vet every year, they need heartworm meds, they need flea meds, they need to be groomed A LOT, the litter needs daily changing, sometimes more than once, the floor will need to be swept or vacuumed frequently. Whew! I'm tired just writing about it. And, yes, you need to wash your hands a lot, but we should be doing that anyway(I do). The bond you can form with a cat is well worth it...as long as you have the time and money and patience to give. Of course, if you do have known respiratory issues, you don't want a cat around full-time. Your doctor will just end up telling you to get rid of it anyway.

Cats are great, just make sure you're prepared.

T. Q

i have a cat, hamster, and a gold fish. looking to get a dog. i would just keep him brushed everyday. and the problem to solve itself. if not talk to a vet if it is excessive shedding there may be a problem. kahty
i to hate hair in my kitchen. my cat sheds his winter coat. i keep a lint removal handy. keeps it under control. hope i helped.

Hi Lanta,

Having many animals in my adult life, I would have to say a cat is not a good FIRST pet. They have been known to swipe at children and babies unprovoked. (I'm sure they are provoked in some way.)I had a girlfriend who had a cat swipe it's claw at the baby on the floor and she almost lost her eye. I was there and couldn't determine what made the cat do it. I don't know how common that is. I do know that unless it is entirely an indoor cat, the diseases they can pick up are dangerous.

I could help with allergies to it's hair if that was an issue but there is no way you can keep a shedding cat from shedding. I personally don't like being in most homes with cats because of that very reason. Believe it or not, I really don't dislike cats. I just think waiting and finding one that meets your standards is best.

Good luck to you!

M.

As a professional pet groomer of 12+ years, I've got some advise for you that has yet to be written (and some that has):

- All animals shed hair and skin (even humans). It is natural and necessary. As the body regenerates new, it must let go of the old to make room. Are there things you can do to help you live a better life with an animal? Yes!
- The cat should have regular baths. Either by you (if the pet has been use to regular baths) or by a professional groomer. By regular, I mean 3-4 times a year. These grooming sessions are a great way to get a large quantity of shedding coat out at one time.
- There are tools (not just brushes) you can use at home for regular grooming. I can recommend a few that are sold at your local Petco, Petsmart or other quality pet store. (contact me for specifics).
- There are over the counter food additives that will help reduce shedding (and keep dander to a minimum) by keeping your pet nutritionally sound (think of how little you shed while on Prenatal Vitamins). Some of these are Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids with Zinc such as: Linatone Plus (by Lambert Kay) or Mrs. Allen’s Shed Stop. Both websites offer great information regarding shedding. The thing about these products is that they are a nutritional supplement and results are not seen overnight. They will take about 4-5 weeks to take effect. They are EASY to administer as you put the flavored oil based product on top of their food.
- Make sure you spend a little money and get your cat on a good quality pet food. If you can purchase it at a grocery store, it’s garbage and should not be given. It is the equivalent to eating fast food hamburgers. Sure they stop the hunger, taste good, very convenient, but not nutritionally sound. This can greatly improve the health and lifespan of your pet.

As a feline foster family of 10+ years, I’ve rescued and rehabilitated the sick, injured, neglected, abused cats/kittens and adopted them through the Humane Society and other local rescue groups. Good food and supplements is the key to healthy, skin/coat and overall pet health. I cannot say this enough. Yes, animals in general go through 2 shedding seasons, on in the spring and one in the fall. Indoor pets tend to shed more regularly all year long, though. Pets under stress will shed excessively during the stress. For example, when repair men are fixing something in the home, taking your pet to the vet, etc. It is helpful to have baby wipes handy (or damp washcloth) to wipe the excess hair away during these stressful times.

Please don’t be easily scared by some concerns written about toxoplasmosis. It is rare in indoor cats and you have a much greater chance contracting this from mis-handling raw chicken or gardening in your yard without gloves.

Pets are great and some adjustments may need to be made to accommodate your new family member (just as you do any house guest or new baby). This should be a lifelong commitment to the cat (they can live 20+ years but the norm is generally 15-18 years). There are ways to raise a child with a litter box. I am doing it right now with 3 year old and 18 month old boys. If you need creative ways to solve this dilemma or any other pet related question, just send me an email.

Perhaps, if you are considering this cat from your family member. Offer to take it on a trial basis with the ability to return it, with no guilt/pressure. Set up a time frame that you are comfortable with, 1 month, 3 months . . . whatever. Have them supply the litter box, current food and a few toys. That’s really all they need to get by. I’m sure you have a few bowls you can use as food and water dishes for short term. This will give the cat a chance to evaluate your home to make sure it can feel comfortable and you can “test drive” the cat to ensure all members of the family (husband and toddler included) are enjoying the cat’s company. Who knows, your MIL’s other cat might get lonely and need a mate (it’s hard to match up adult cats with mates as they become quite picky as they mature) and she may ask for the cat back.

Good Luck!!!

Just like people cats come in many different personalities. How does your daughter and the cat get along at your mother's house? You may want to bring the cat home for a few days to see how you all do. Remember a cat will most likely be afraid in a new surrounding for several days so you may not get an accurate read. Cats are no more likely to carry and/or get dangerous diseases than any other pet - turtles, frogs, dogs etc. Not sure what that other poster is talking about. That's why they have vaccines. And you don't even have to vaccinate your cat every year. As for the shedding, you won't be able to stop it completely but you can control it by brushing your cat several times a week. The first few times you brush your cat there will be lots of fur. As you continue to brush your cat there will be less shedding. Also, cat fur does not just fly off the cat. Cats are creatures of habit so you will find the most hair in places that they like to sleep or lounge. It's very easy to keep their beds clean. If you feel the cat is shedding way too much ask your vet for help. Perhaps the cat needs a good bath, or has a treatable skin condition etc. Animals are perfect at teaching children kindness, gentleness and empathy. (although you can't hug a fish). I've had both cats and dogs my whole life - no problem. Having a pet can also reduce the chances of certain types of pet allergies in children. As far as the swiping comment goes, you need to understand that a cat like any other animal is defending himself. Keep a close eye on your baby and make sure baby is gentle, not pulling tails etc. Lastly, I have 6 indoor cats (which is a bit much lol!) and everyone gets along fine. My daughter understands how to be kind to animals and is not afraid.

There is more than just hair to consider. You've got a curious little 11 month old girl who is just going to get more curious and more able to get into the things she isn't supposed to. You're going to have to have two bowls for water and food out, probably on the floor somewhere. And a litter box. It's got to be in a place where the cat can get to it easily and if the cat can get there, your girl probably can too. I can't tell you how many kids I've seen digging through a litter box as soon as mommy turns their back.
I read another mom saying how a cat swiped and the child almost lost an eye. That happened to me when I was very young. I have scars on my eye because of it. From the way my mom tells it; it was unprovoked.
Any professional will tell you that to get a first pet in the first 6 years of a child's life is just not a good idea. Children are unpredictable and that makes pets nervous and they can lash out and what they perceive as a danger even though the kid is only being a kid.
I would not, with sound mind, advise you to take in a pet right now. And there really isn't anything besides brushing to get rid of hair or lessen shedding. You'll have to just vacuum it up daily and keep it off the counters.

All animals shed to some degree or another. On that matter so do humans! :) Anyway, the cat in question may shed excessively because of a nutrional problem. Sometimes no matter how well fed or how well we love them they still have other needs. Putting them on a high end food sometimes helps, although it can be expensive. Also, animals need to be brushed to remove dead hair from them and it may help the shedding if this cat is brushed outside to help get the old hair out. But, the car will always shed and yes you will find the hair everywhere. Sometimes not so appealing of places.

On that note I would definetely take the cat to a vet for a complete physical before bringing it into my home. An animal can bring in many diseases and considering the time our children spend on the floor and face to face with these critters it can be dangerous. Personally I am not a big fan of cats :P I find them cold and aloof, not a great family friend. But that one seems nice. Also you may want to consider the litterbox. When we bought our house my son was about that age, and the sellers had a cat. No matter where we were in the house or what we were doing that kid migrated straight to that nasty litterbox. And it was one of those covered models. We had to put the thing up high everytime we were here or outside. You know how it is, whatever you want them to stay out of is what they are into!! As a matter of fact before my son was born my husbands aunt had cats and a baby. When she started moving around she got into the litterbox and got some kind of worms or something that was contagious and we all had to take medication from being around her. Just a couple things to consider. If you have never owned a pet it can be surprising how much work they are, but the love is returned in full! I have always had pets, multiple dogs are part of our family. But since our son was born we have not brought any new dogs into our home and will not add new ones as our older ones pass away. They are just too much work on top of an active 3 yr old and a baby on the way!!

Good luck and take care of that precious baby.

Animals just shed and hair is something that you have to just deal with. I have one cat and two dogs and I vacuum every day because of the hair. My cat a long haired one too--so though he's quite beautiful, I find tufts of hair in various parts of the house on a daily basis.
As far as stopping shedding, there's not a lot you can do, they do shed --brushing them regularly helps a lot (whatever gets on the brush won't end up on your or the furniture), There is a comb that also brushes out the undercoat (they advertise it on TV) and it really works! There is also this great yellow sponge thing that they sell at pet stores that is GREAT for getting cat hair off of furniture...I also keep one of those tape lint brushes around for any dark clothing. But pet hair is inevitable when you have pets--unless you get one of those crazy hairless ones--LOL
Pets are like children though, you love them and you learn to live with their "messes." But don't think there is something you can do to stop it--only to control it and remove it!

Oh and we were able to teach our now 2 1/2 year old to leave the cat alone and be "gentle" with the dogs(he is also the reason I vacuum everyday). The great thing about cats are that they learn to stay away from the babies!

Take Tina's advice. She was right on the money, only if the shedding really bothers you brush that cat every morning and every evening for a while and then cut back to once a day. I don't brush my cats but I should. I have 3 and they never bother my son (22 months). In fact one cat tolerates him so well he can lay on top of him and the cat won't move. It is quite adorable. Try the cat for a weekend and see what happens. Then go with your best instincts. Enjoy!

I would say no to the cat. You don't want to take it in and buy all the stuff for it and then decide later you can't deal with all of the hair and liter box.
The liter box will be the biggest issue with an 11 month old.
Hope things work out for you and the cat.

have her shaved... we have a cat who mats terribly and we shave in to a "lion cut" where they will leave a maine and a puff at the end of the tail
hope this helps :)

I'm in favor of pets in general. Definately a good brush every day will help the hair and also give the two of you bonding time. I have a cats that love to have the fur brushed and will not let me stop.

The cat needs brushed daily. Maybe even twice if you have the time. Cats usually respond well to this type of attention, it will fall in love with you for doing it, although it sounds as if it already has. You'll will need to vacuum more often and don't forget the cat litter. Needs to be cleaned daily and dumped and replaced weekly and litter box needs to be washed with soap and water at least once a month. Sometimes cleaning the litter it gets a little dusty--I always thought I was breathing this in when I cleaned the litter--just something else for you to consider. I used to be the proud owner of four cats and everyone entering my home always said they could not tell I had any pets at all. Must keep up with the cat-required tasks. But, I really loved them and felt it was worth the effort.

Hi Lanta!
i have 2 longhaired cats and a now 5 week old baby girl. I, too, was nervous about maintaining my cats with a baby. I recently changed pet food, and I can tell you that it has made a world of difference in the amount of hair I find around the house. While their coats are shinier and fuller, they don't shed nearly as much. I've tried several brands of food lately b/c of the pet food recalls, and the one that has worked the best for us is made by Blue Buffalo company (you can get it at pet stores). My cats love it and it has made a big difference in their coats. I think the fact that it is made with human-grade ingredients and no unnecessary fillers contributes to the improvements I've seen. So, you may try changing food (introduce slowly/in combination with the cat's current food), a few weeks before you bring her into your home, and see if the shedding improves. Even so, cats just shed, seasonally for some breeds, so keep a couple lint rollers around!! :-) Hope this helps!

Try taking him to a groomer, you could have him shaved down, even do a lion cut so just his head and feet and tip of the tail have hair. And you could buy yourself the roomba vacume in hopes of it hiding the hair from your site. As far as it in food, I have show dogs and unfortunetly hair ever where but it rarely makes it in my food. I have leather furniture so it doesnt stick to that and wood floors so it doesnt stick to the carpet, a quick run with my vacumme and its gone and I dont ahve to worry about guests sitting on my sofa and leaving covered in hair.
Take the cat, he will bring you more joy then you can imagine. He just might make you a full fledged animal person.

The more you brush the cat the less he/she will shed. (I suggest brushing outside :) However, two times a year the cat will jurastically shed (which is like you said, a handfull of hair everytime you pet him) If you have the time to take him outside and brush him 2x daily It will help a lot, and constant upkeep at your house, but don't believe anyone that tells you that there is a cure all solution....Unless their crazy cure all solution is to shave it! LOL (Don't do that)

Take the cat! I'm a cat-lover, but I also believe that children who grow up with pets learn to be more caring and empathetic about the feelings of others, and learn to be more responsible. Plus, it's great to always have a friend around!

You need to buy a GOOD brush for your cat. Not a cheap one from the grocery store. You should go to a pet supply store (like PetsMart) and ask for a good brush for a cat. You want one that will get through to the under-layer of hair. You will want to brush your cat DAILY. All the hair will come off in the brush (and there will be tons of it, especially at first) and not all around the house.

I've owned cats all my life. The only thing I can tell you is to comb the cats hair frequently. You may want to ask a veternarian (not sure how to spell it) for any ideas as well. Sorry I wasn't much help for you.

I finally gave my cat away though. I have a 2.4 year old son. And he'd always chase it and had gotten slapped several times. So do keep that in mind if you do decide on the cat. Hopefully cat and child will be okay together.

there are special foods that say they help with shedding. the one that we buy helps, but nothing eliminates it. all Nutro cat food is supposed to be of such good quality that it helps with shedding and even makes your cat poop less. i would also look online to see if there are any vitamin supplements that would help. and if you brush the cat twice a day, a lot of the hair that he/she would shed will end up in the brush instead of on your couch.

Hi Lanta! We shave our cats, which cuts down MAJORLY on the shedding. You can take them to a local groomer and they will do it for you. I hope this helps!
M.

If I was you I would stay far away from cats.
They are cute and loveable but you need to know the RISK'S that go along with having kids and cats in the same house.
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Cats, May Up Eczema and Asthma Risk in Infants and Children.

http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/eczema/...

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Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by a parasite called Toxoplasmagondii that you can get from handling soil or cat litter that contains cat feces ((( don't cats lick themselves and can't they take this parasite from their butt to their hair when they lick themselves??????????????????????????????)))

Don't we pet the cats with our hands? I think so! Do we wash our hands like we should (OFTEN)? No we don't.

(((And if they have this parasite on or near their butt, can't they get it on the furniture or the carpet?????)))

Imagine your little one playing on the floor where the cat was.

Do people allow cats to lick on them??? I think so! Let’s try to remember where they had their tongue at.

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I do not have any cats because of all of this and more.

Asthma is no JOKE.

When you have a child that has asthma you as the mother or parents have to worry about every step and breath that they take. It is a hard life to live with asthma.
My daughter has ASTHMA.

I hope that this information has helped you and I hope that you can make the best decision for you and your family,

God Bless