Ask for opportunity to interact with cat. Is she shy around strangers such as yourself, but confident with her caretakers? Or is she skittish with everyone? Remember that a cat acts differently when a stranger is present, and that cats in shelters often act very different than they usually would because of stressful environment. Most humane societies and animal rescue groups gather a history on each animal they take in. This can tell you what cat's likes and dislikes are, whether it is comfortable around children or other cats, etc.

If you have other cats or dogs at home, consider their personalities when choosing a cat. If your existing cat is older than 10 years and used to being only cat in house, she might not welcome a newcomer. A dog with a high prey drive will be provoked by a high-energy kitten. If you have no pets at home, consider adopting two cats. Many animal shelters have special pricing for "two-for-ones," and cats make great companions for on another when you are not home.

When you bring a cat into your home, you make a commitment to always meet her needs. Advances in cat nutrition and veterinary medicine mean that many cats live 15-20 years. If you buy a kitten for children remember cat will be part of family long after your kids have left home! Before you get a pet, be sure you can take care of it for life.

Did You know there are at least nineteen different types of "miaow"?

When it comes to sound, cats say more than meow. Their vocalizations fall into three groups, murmurs, open/closed mouth and intensity sounds. Murmured sounds include low sound cats make when treats are coming, as well as famous purr. Purring is usually interpreted as a sound of contentment, but it is really more a vocalization of intense emotion. In fact, an injured cat, or one being handled by a stranger - like a vet - often purr.

Open/closed mouth vocalizations include all variations and intonations of "meow" that a cat uses to greet you, or ask for food, or otherwise demand attention. Intensity vocalizations are created when cat holds her mouth open entire time she is making sound. These are highly emotional vocalization of fear, anger, and extreme pain.

Some cats are more talkative than others. Many owners notice a difference in types of noises their cats make for them as opposed to strangers or other cats. A few owners believe their cats have learned to mimic syntax and pitch of some human words. Whether that is true or not, it is certain that more time you spend with your cat, more she'll communicate with you.