Hi Kathy,

Thanks for your question.

I’m sorry to hear about your recent loss. I’m also glad to hear that you’re at a point where you’d like to add another furry family member to your household.

If you’re considering adopting an adult cat I always encourage people to go to local shelters and humane societies – if you’re in the Toronto area I highly recommend that you visit The Toronto Humane Society. I believe a relationship with a pet is heightened dramatically when it starts off by saving their life. I myself have never owned an animal that I bought from a breeder, I just simply don’t believe in it. There are so many reasons why you should adopt a rather than buy and many humane society cats for adoption out there that need homes that there is no other option for me. I’m also glad to hear that you would consider a mature cat as your next pet. I know it’s surprising but I’ve never owned a cat that was younger than 16 years old, I like older pets and I think they have more of a personality than younger animals.

Again, I recommend that you visit a local shelter or humane society and take your time with the decision. Visit multiple times and wait until that special animal speaks to you on one of your visits. I have no doubt that will be the start of a great friendship with your cat.

Best of luck.

Dr. Clayton Greenway