Should we get a cat?

Question

My boyfriend and I moved into our first apartment together about a month and a half ago. I really want a cat and he has finally agreed to it. The only things making me feel unsure are:

1) Our apartment is only 500 squarefeet

2) I previously had two cats who my grandma now takes care of since i've left for college. One of them urinated on everything and the other was extremely anti-social. My grandma loves them but is 80 years old and I will regain custody of the cats once she can no longer care for them (probably 3 plus years from now)

3) We have new furniture and are scared of clawing/urination.

If we do get a kitten or cat, what are good signs to look for in a lap kitty/calm kitty and how do we avoid the destruction and bad smell of our new apartment?

Answer 1

I would advise against getting a new cat.  You have two cats coming to you in three years.  Your apartment isn't big enough for two humans and three cats to live comfortably.

Answer 2

Hi!

You have a lot of questions there so I will try to address it the best I could.

Here's a great site on how to choose a cat:-

http://cats.about.com/cs/catmanagement10...

As for your living quarters now, it will be suitable for one cat but taking into consideration that you will be adding two more in a couple of years, that could be a problem. So, you may want to rethink your decision. Cats are territorial and a small living space might not be suitable for more than one cat, fearing that they will constantly fight for territory. And a stressful living arrangement is detrimental to your cat's health.

As far as scratching furniture  goes, this can be avoided by purchasing a great scratching post and teaching your cat to use int instead of your sofa. Good litter box hygiene will help curb unwanted elimination behavior.

I hope you will weigh the pro and cons before deciding to adopt. Good Luck!