thinking of adopting an older cat

[OnceUponAThyme]

hi

I am thinking that in the next year or two I would like to adopt an older cat from a local rescue.
I have a dd (4) who would be most enthusiastic and a Dh who is interested but a bit
we stay in a ground flat, with a shared garden which the cat could access, but would prefer a cat who likes being in, as we stay close to busy roads. we were due to adopt a cat who had fiv but he died due to an infection. I'm happy with a cat who needs medication such as diabetes, and more looking for one that fits us.
I'm more thinking of what we need to buy, and what possible things I should look at or avoid? also just advice on being owned by a cat

[MrsBeep]

List of what to buy:

Litter tray/litter/news paper/scoop
Food dishes/water dish
Wet and dry cat food and perhaps some extra treats that will supply nutrition for indoor cats (i know Go Cat do indoor cat biscuits)
Toys - nothing expensive, just some dangly ones that your child can interact with the cat and perhaps some soft or crinkly balls
Blanket or cat bed...not all cats will use a bed, but a good textured blanket works well
Scratching post - a MUST for indoor cats
Treats to reward good behaviours
Flea and worming drops
Brush (if they have long hair, otherwise not needed)
Pot of living grass - if indoor, this can help. Cats eat grass to aid digestion.

And that's about it.

If you want them to be indoors then you'll need to ask at the rescue place you get one from if the cat is an outdoor or indoor. If they are used to outdoors it would be cruel to keep them in.

Good luck!

[thecatneuterer]

That's great. I'm a big fan of older cats and they do find it difficult to get homes. The thread below on this page covers your questions I think: www.mumsnet.com/Talk/the_litter_tray/1681116-Were-probably-getting-a-rescue-cat-soon-What-do-we-need-to-buy-and-how-much-will-upkeep-cost

[OnceUponAThyme]

thank you both
I have been looking at rescues in my area and will be telling them that I am mainly looking for an indoor cat due to my location. thank you again!

[HazeltheMcWitch]

You will have your hand (metaphorically) bitten off. Sooooo many cats get overlooked as they're older, need meds, have FIV, or are black .

MrsBeep's list is v comprehensive; I can't think of anything else you'd need!
A camera charged up?

[OnceUponAThyme]

I noticed when looking there are a lot of black cats up for adoption. thought theyd be perfect, no light hairs sticking to black trousers