SHELTERS AND RESCUE GROUPS AS ADOPTION OPTIONS
There are city and state shelters that are required to take any cat or dog that is brought to them. Unfortunately, many animals don't make it out alive because of the astronomical numbers of animals brought in. A private shelter can be a no-kill facility but it's unlikely that a municipal shelter can do likewise. Rescue groups usually foster out their adoptees to their members until they can be adopted. There are rescue groups that concentrate on a particular breed. The Internet can be a great source of adoptee options.

PEDIGREE VERSUS MIXED BREED
Although there are characteristic temperaments and attributes associated with particular breeds, you can't be certain that the purebred cat or kitten you adopt will meet your expectations. Consider a domestic short- or longhaired cat if you're not totally set on a particular breed.

A SINGLE CAT OR A COUPLE
If you spend most of your time at home, a single, people-oriented cat that prefers to be the only cat may be the solution. A cat who lived happily in a one cat household or experienced feline warfare on the street would probably not opt for a feline partner. If you're out a lot, why not adopt two cats so they can hang out together. It's easy to locate two bonded cats that need a home together. Whomever you adopt should be neutered or spayed. If they're not, arrange for the surgery.

WHAT ABOUT KITTENS?
If you're all for fun, high energy and mischief, and you're not obsessed with neatness, two kittens will suit you. They should be at least eight weeks old and can be your choice in gender. What a good time you'll have watching them grow and having an influence on their development. But before they arrive, kitten-proof your home so they don't fall out of a window or get stuck under the stove.

MAYBE AN ADOLESCENT CAT
A kitten and a young adolescent cat could be a good match. The adolescent would be between six to fifteen months and spayed or neutered. A young cat of about fifteen months to two years is another option for a kitten and would be a built-in tutor. But make sure the cat is kitten-friendly. You might also consider a kitten- friendly adult to accompany the kitten. As you can see, there are a variety of choices.

CHILDREN ON THE SCENE
If there are young children on the scene, it would be best to adopt a young cat that is child-oriented. Such a cat would welcome the attention of children. If you must adopt a kitten, the kitten should be very spunky and at least two months old.

A CAT FOR SENIOR CITIZENS
A mellow lap cat at least six years old would be an ideal candidate for a senior citizen. If an adult cat is out of the question, an adolescent or young cat can be considered. A kitten would require constant guidance, a tolerance of high-energy and more dollars for health care.

A thorough physical examination is in order for the adoptee and it would be best to have a potential home in mind for the adoptee, in case the person has a change of mind.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST
Select a name for your cat that makes you feel good when you say it and even when you think of it. This is an easy, ongoing way of affirming a splendid relationship with your cat.