Some people say they are exclusively "cat people," meaning they only want to have a cat as a pet. That doesn't mean that just any cat will be right companion. When choosing a cat to be your companion, be certain to make choice that will work best for both you and animal.

An athletic, highly energetic cat is fun to watch, but a cat can be a challenge to care for. A shy, sensitive cat probably wouldn't thrive in a home with lots of hullabaloo. The first step to choosing a cat is evaluating your lifestyle so you can find a cat with similar needs.

Some people only want a purebred, while others take great delight in their basic domestic crossbreed. Hair length is another decision to be made; long-haired cats require daily brushing and combing, but tend to shed less than short-haired cats. Do you have time needed to raise a well-behaved kitten, or would a mature, mellow adult be a better companion? Once you have decided on what right cat for you will be like, it's time to start search.

Where Can You Find a Cat?

* Breeders: you should spend time researching to find a reputable breeder with years of experience * Animal charities: these are usually a great source for a first time pet owner. The experienced and dedicated staff will be able to give you advice and knowledge * Friends or neighbours: this can sometimes be a good source, as you will know where your pet has come from. * Never buy through personal advertisements in papers - you don't know what you are getting

Many people think cats are asocial, but in fact they are very social animals. They bond with other cats in their house or neighborhood, their owners, even other pets like dogs and birds. They communicate to each other and us a variety of ways.

A keen sense of smell is important in cat communication. When her human returns home, a cat carefully sniffs then proceeds to rub her face against owner's legs. She is placing her scent on you, marking you as her territory. As you have gone through your day, scent molecules have attached to your clothing. Your cat must mark you again to cover up those other smells.

Cats also communicate through body language. Your cat's posture, gestures, facial expressions, tail, ear and whisker position can all be aan indication of how your cat is feeling.

A bristling tail held straight up, or one that thrashes back and forth are warnings. If a cat is feeling defensive, tail is usually arched. Hissing and backing away with ears flat against head are other defensive poses. You can tell a lot about a cat's state of being from its eyes. Wide, dilated eyes communicate anger or fear. A contented cat slowly blinks its eyes, or keeps them half-closed.