Although they are more independent creatures than dogs, cats still need your love and attention. A happy cat needs at a minimum: food, water, litter box, health care, scratching posts, and playtime. Here's how to provide for your happy cat.

Where To Get A Cat
Thousands of cats and kittens are turned into shelters throughout the year, and are readily available for adoption. Cat clubs put on shows where the public can meet breeders and get acquainted with different breeds. Independent rescue groups also offer cats for adoption.

Indoor or Outdoor?
Decide whether your cat will be indoors all the time, or a mixture of indoors/outdoors. A cat outdoors does not live very long, especially in rural areas where cats are preyed upon by coyotes. Even in the city, an outdoor cat runs the risk of being hit by cars and other perils. To ensure a long healthy life, plan to keep your cat indoors.

Cats that disappear may be in a shelter. Less than 10% of stray cats are redeemed by their owners. A microchip is the best insurance that you will get your wandering kitty back. Your vet implants the chip between the cat's shoulder blades, and you register the number with a national registry, the microchip company or local animal control. A collar and id tag, or license if it is required in your area, means anyone who finds your cat will know how to locate you.

Feeding
Cats do nicely on a diet of a high quality dry, complete cat food. All major brands of cat food are tested according to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards.

Extensive analysis of foods has been done to ensure your cat gets the correct balance of nutrients for his needs. You can also treat your cats to a little canned food in addition to the dry. If left out, it dries up and the cat won't eat it, so small amounts are best in a separate dish.

Cats need fresh water. Change water daily!

Cats love to nibble on fresh greens. If they are indoors-only cats, that means your houseplants! Provide Kitty with some live Pet Grass