朱龙山

Bringing home your first cat is exciting, emotional and, if we're honest, a little overwhelming. With 69 per cent of Australian families living with some kind of pet, and 33 per cent of households owning a cat, it's clear that we're a nation deeply attached to our animals — but that doesn't mean adopting is a decision to take lightly. In the 2023–2024 financial year alone, the RSPCA received 26,704 cats, with 16,448 of them rehomed across the country. Cats now make up the largest group of animals entering shelters, and the need for committed, informed adopters remains high. Dr Annabel Robertson, Royal Canin's Scientific Services Veterinary Manager, said one of the biggest misconceptions about cats is that they are aloof and unflappable. "Cats are very territorial and stress-sensitive," she told Mamamia. "It can take cats quite a long time to adjust to a new house or a new environment. This misconception can make the first weeks of settling in harder than it needs to be. "A lot of people don't realise just the number of resources you need for a cat," Dr Robertson said. "It's not just a bowl and a litter tray. Cats need multiple hiding spots, scratching posts, resting areas, and separate food and water resources."