I have a cat question.....I need HELP!

Question

Approx. 6 months ago a cat showed up at my dad's house. We realized this must have been someone's house cat, b/c it was extremely loving and mild tempered. He seems as if he is an older cat. All he wants to do is lay around and be petted. He doesn't tear up or scratch stuff. And if he gets in the house all you have to do is open the door and say "out" and he goes right out. He also comes up to your door when you get home and meets you at the car. He is almost like a dog. Very intelligent. My question is. I am wanting to bring him to live with me and make him a house cat. What will I need to worry about? Will he spray and start scratching stuff since he has been outside for a while. Anything else I need to worry about? Thanks for your help

Answer 1

Have you ever heard the saying, "If it aint broke, don't fix it?"

Seems to me like the arrangement you have now is just fine.  It's hard to make an outdoor cat into an indoor cat.  Just leave things as they are.

Answer 2

If you take this cat in, you may want to let it outside sometimes. Make sure you have a fence, and if you don't, keep an eye on it, keep an eye on it anyway even if you have a fence, or take your cat for a walk if you live in a neighborhood, if it seems he wants to go outside.  

Answer 3

To be honest, it seems like he is used to being outdoors, and I would personally not choose to keep him as an indoor cat after they have experienced that, I know my cats would not appreciate that! Cats love the outdoors! I appreciate that in some places/areas, its perhaps not safe, but depending on where you are, I would suggest you keep going with the routine you have - let him out when he asks, and in when he wants to come back. You both have the best of both worlds then!

Plus, if he is used to being out and chasing things and burning up energy etc, and then he is suddenly confined, that is when your furniture may suffer!!!  

Answer 4

If you have any other cats in your home you will want to have the cat tested for any feline viruses that can be spread to other cats.  Take him to the vet to make sure he is healthy before you introduce him to any other cats.  As far as spraying or scratching you will never know until he gets into the house.  Cats be be very testy sometimes.  Good luck and I hope everything works out!  

Answer 5

You need th have  the vet give him/her combo tested for feline leukemia and FIV.  If the test is negative the cat needs shots, flea medication, and worming.  Also schelude the cat for spay or neuter unless you want kittens, or if he is a male  cat iincreases the chance he will decorate you home with cat urine.  

Answer 6

All cats are very loving, intelligent, and friendly. Some are just afraid becasue of awful experiences such as abuse. This cat should be taken to the vet checked for worms, feline leukemia, and fleas. The only worry you should have is if you are going to be introducing him to another cat at your house. It may or may not be a problem at all. Also, if he is not neutered get that done!  

Answer 7

IF HE ISNT DOING IT NOW, THEN I SAY YOU DONT HAVE ANYTHING TJO WORRY ABOUT... I ALSO ADOPTED A STRAY AND SHE IS PERFECT