Picking Out a Healthy Cat/Kitten
When adopting a new feline, the following steps will help to pick a healthy one:
Inspect beneath the fur to make sure the skin is free of any sores or signs of irritation
The cat's tongue and gums should be pink, not pale
For a kitten, he/she should be at least 8 weeks old
The coat should appear shiny and clean and free of bald patches which could be a sign of mange
The cat should not be sneezing or have any discharge from the nose
The eyes should be bright and clear, free of discharge
The cat should have a natural reaction to your gently handling. Does it seem playful or shy?
Cats, like all animals, have their own ways of communicating. It will help your relationship with your cat if you can understand those signals.
Ear Signals
The cat's ears can indicate emotions. Usually, when the cat is in a relaxed state, the ears will point forward and slightly outward. If the ears are flattened and close to the head, this is usually a sign of defense or the expectation of a fight. Actually, the ears are brought in to protect them in the event of a confrontation. If the ears are flattened but not fully rotated forward, then usually this is a more aggressive stance, that the cat is ready to fight.
Eye Signals
Cats' eyes will remain wide open when they are alert or when strangers are around. This is different though then staring which can be more of an aggressive position. If the cat's pupils suddenly increase in size, then this is an indication that she has either spotted something appealing or something threatening. Half-closed eyes signal relaxation while fully closed either indicate sleep or appeasement.
Voice Signals
It is commonly understood that cats are able to express 7 different types of messages as described below:
(1) Welcome - A soft chirruping sound. This is used by mother cats who are beckoning their kittens or with humans, this sound is used in conjunction with winding between the owners legs.
(2) Fright - This is characterized by an alarming, very throaty, yowling noise. This may be accompanied by an arched back, upraised fur, and a "spread" tail. The purpose of this physical stance is to make the cat appear larger and less vulnerable.
(3) Contentment - This is commonly recognized as the "purr". This is generally a sign that things are going very well.
(4) Anger - A mixture of growls, snarls, and howls as overheard in a cat fight is a clear sign of anger. This is a very noticeable and unique combination of sounds that shouldn't be misunderstood as any other emotion.
(5) Desiring Attention - A series of meows varying in intensity from soft to loud may be a sign of a cat demanding food or affection or maybe shelter. The intensity can be an indication of the desire or demand. Generally softer meows could be affection demanding while louder meows could indicate hunger.
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