Much thought must go into selecting your next cat or kitten.

You'll want to look for certain characteristics to make sure you're getting a compatible addition to your family. Almost any cat or kitten can become a good addition to your existing family, however some will take more work than do others.

A calm, relaxed cat or kitten and one who doesn't seem frightened will probably be able to be socialized best.

Some things to look for in your next companion:

Sociable-ness

Watch your kitten or cat. One who is socialized and will integrate into your family easily, will observe you. The cat or kitten will make eye contact with you, follow you, and play with your hands or feet. One who may not integrate or may take a lot more time (not necessarily bad - just takes more work) will run from you or hide from you.

To socialize a cat or kitten who is afraid of you, you'll need to spend lots of time playing with it, giving it treats by hand and touching or stroking it. You'll need to slowly gain it's trust. Deaf or blind cats take even longer to socialize (but are well worth the effort!)

Confidence

If you stand behind your cat or kitten and clap your hands loudly several times, your cat or kitten should turn to look and even come to investigate the noise. If your cat or kitten runs or hides, he or she is not confident and was not taught to accept new sounds and sensations.

Reaction

Roll a small toy in front of your cat or kitten to observe its hunting and reaction instincts. If it ignores the ball, it doesn't react to its environment. If this is the case, it may be very difficult to socialize your cat.

Your cat needs to react (whether positively or negatively) to its environment for it to be a loving companion.

Authority

When you cat or kitten is laying on the floor, roll him or her onto their back. Gently rub their tummy a few times.

If your cat or kitten allows this contact and seems to enjoy the gentle massage, it has learned to accept authority.

If your cat fights you or resists in any way, your cat or kitten is trying to assert it's own dominance and may not give in to your authority.

Kittens and cats of all ages need to play to exercise their muscles and to maintain hunting and stalking skills, as well as keeping their minds alert.

If you have a new kitten, you're taking the place of its siblings and you'll need to play with it a lot. Your kitten needs exercise to keep it healthy and to help it grow into a happy and healthy adult cat. This is the perfect time for bonding and cementing a good relationship with your new pet.

Remember...when selecting your cat or kitten, you are in essence responsible for that life. You'll need to take care of it (food, shelter, warmth and companionship) and you'll need to teach your cat or kitten what is right and what is wrong behavior.

Good pets need rules and guidelines just as children do, so they know the boundaries and limits they are allowed. This is for their safety as well as the safety of others in your household.

Take a little time to select your next cat or kitten, and you'll be amazed at how much joy they can bring into your life