The purchase price of a cat can easily reach $500.00 but it doesn't stop there. You have to think about the expenses for the care of your new friend. Are you ready to assume these costs? You must consider�:
The veterinary costs: including exams, yearly vaccinations, preventive worming and for the unavoidable infections, or injuries possible during the life of the animal.
The Food�: including quality food and quantities that are directly proportional to the size of your friend , and of course the unavoidable small treats.
The essential accessories: litter box, litter, identification medals, bowls for water and for food, reference books, the small shovels to maintain the litter box, the nail cutter, the brush, and finally the transportation crate.
The boarding�: If you often travel for more than one day, you should foresee expenses for boarding, evidently your cat won't be able to stay home alone for long periods of time..
As you see, depending on the breed you choose, the price can be a little bit heavy. Make your choice according to your budget.
Be sure that you have enough time for each task you must accomplish for your cat. If you use your house as an hotel, only for sleeping, if you are absent most of the time, you probably don't have the necessary time to assume your part of the life contract with your cat. Make an evaluation of your available time.
Another important point is patience. Will you have the necessary patience to accept:
There is only one rule to follow to evaluate your time and your level of tolerance, be honest and remember that the other members of the family must also have their say.
You won't be able to let it wander the streets in order to avoid:
The first thing to admit is that you and your cat are not from the same breed�! Up to there, generally no problem. You certainly noticed that this cat didn't arrive with a label indicating the "how to" instructions and the fact that you have had a cat is not a guarantee that you will understand this one. 
This is where it generally spoils, and it is now that it is necessary to learn. Learn to communicate with the cat, and especially to understand it. The following section consists in helping you understand the right way. Just note that a Cat is not like a dog. A cat learns easily, but he has a very independent nature. He probably will never go on the table when your looking at him but when your not, it is another story. They are very intelligent, learn easily their name and the signification of the word no (when , of course, you are there to say it to them). Don't confuse love with respect, your cat will love you unconditionally but will respect your instructions only..... if he wants to! If you are not ready to accept this fact, review your decision to buy a kitten.
To arrive at your goal, prepare yourself the right way. Take the time to read books or articles about your breed, and cats in general. You will also need to consult specialists in the field, consult your breeder who is generally himself an excellent source of information adapted to your breed. Professionals will also know how to help you, question your veterinarian, your groomer etc.
You will need to clear with success all these steps without exception before making the big jump. If it is the case, go ahead and move on to the following section and determine what is the best breed for you.
