For the rest of the world, however, picking the purr-fect cat for your household can be a challenge. When you see all of the cute, furry faces that need a new home, how will you know which one will fit in best with your family?
Personality
The first thing to consider when looking for a new cat is its personality. Some kitties are very outgoing, while others tend to be quite shy. There are cats who love to play, and cats who would rather spend their free time curled up in your lap. For multi-pet households, you need to find a cat who can quickly adapt to other animals. If you have children, you need one that can tolerate rough playing. Take the time to meet a few cats before you make a decision.
Gender
After finding a kitten that you adore, the gender is the next priority. Male cats tend to be more aggressive and outgoing. Female kitties like to be cuddled and petted. Of course, this is a generalization, and not all cats follow this pattern. Spaying and neutering will make both sexes more relaxed. I recommend bringing home a female cat to a house that already has a boy kitty, and vice versa. In my experience, it is more difficult to socialize two girl cats than it is to introduce males. They tend to be cattier - pun intended.
Type
In the world of cats, there are two main types - long-haired and short-haired. For first time cat owners, I always suggest choosing a short-haired kitty. They require a lot less grooming and maintenance. If you own a long-haired cat, you need to brush your feline friend on a daily basis. Failure to do so will result in hair balls and matted fur.
Age
Sure, kittens are cute little balls of fluff, but older cats make great pets as well. Kittens require extra play time, and they are more curious. They will get into everything under the sun, so only choose one if you have the time to teach and monitor it. Older cats are more set in their ways. They need less training, and they will provide years of purring and love to their owners. Be aware, however, that it is harder to introduce an older cat to another adult kitty.
The next time you are on the market for a new furbaby, take the time to consider these factors. I also urge everyone to find their next pet at a shelter. You will be making a new friend and saving a life at the same time.