Advice for Prospective Cat Owners 135
Pedigree or non-pedigree?
If deciding on a pedigree cat or kitten, it is advisable to read up on the breed
beforehand. It is important to know of any breed-specific requirements, for exam-
ple long-haired cats will need regular grooming, and to be aware of any inherent
disease conditions (for information see: https://icatcare.org/advice/cat-breeds/
inherited-disorders-cats).
Male or female?
If cats are neutered prior to or very soon after reaching sexual maturity the differ-
ences between the sexes are minor, if any exist at all. Anecdotally, neutered males are
reported to be more affectionate than females but there appears to be no scientific
evidence published to support this.
There are, however, significant differences in the behaviour between neutered
and entire (unneutered) adult cats and between entire males and females (Finkler
et al., 2011). Most of these behaviours are a part of reproductive behaviour (see
Chapters 3 and 5) and are behaviours that most pet owners consider unwanted or
unacceptable, such as urine marking, fighting and excessive vocalizing. Neutering
is therefore essential, not only to prevent unwanted pregnancies and to improve
the health and welfare of the individual cat, but also to prevent the development
of these undesirable behaviours (see Appendix 4).
Fig. 9.1. Adopting an older cat can be a better option for anyone who might be less able
to cope with a lively kitten or might not be able to commit to continued care for the long
lifespan of a cat.