All about the cat: A beginner's guide to owning & caring for a feline friend

by Terese Ferrara DRE#01949191 11/13/2022

There’s just something about the cat that humans love - and have loved for thousands of years. One of the first domesticated animals, cats are some of the most popular pets all around the world today. 

But what is it about them that makes them such great pets? What should you know if you’re interested in adopting your own feline friend? Here’s a basic guide to one of the most-loved animals to bring into your home:



Domesticated cat behavior: What are they like?

One thing that makes a cat a delightful companion is that each has their own unique personalities and characteristics. While every cat is different, there are some typical behaviors you can expect from your average house cat. Some examples include:



  • Grooming: Cats clean their own fur, meaning you should never need to bathe them yourself.
  • Purring: The soothing vocal vibrations of a cat’s purring are usually the result of them feeling happy or content.
  • Climbing: Similar to their relatives in the wild, house cats love to climb. Many cats feel most comfortable at high vantage points, making cat trees an excellent investment for any pet parent.
  • Nocturnal activity: While cats typically sleep around 16 hours per day, their most active time is usually at night. 

What your cat needs

Beyond the basics - food, water, regular vet checkups - cats have needs specific to their home environment. For instance, having enough space to roam helps these territorial animals feel comfortable and stimulated. Plenty of obstacles to climb and lounge on keep them engaged and encourage independent play.

Different domestic cat breeds can have different characteristics that might affect their individual needs. For example, long-haired breeds may need extra help with grooming to prevent matted fur and hairballs. Especially active and adventurous breeds like the Norwegian forest cat and Bengal cat need more mental and physical activity than other breeds.



Keeping your cat happy

While many cats might seem aloof, they do thrive with proper socialization. It’s recommended to set aside some quality time to bond with your cat every day, especially if they are your only pet. Many cat owners choose pairs of cats to provide companionship and extra entertainment.

It can take some time to learn what your individual cat wants. However, if you start with these basics, you’ll be in the perfect position to provide an enriching and happy life for your feline.

About the Author
Author

Terese Ferrara DRE#01949191

Terese Ferrara is a long-time resident of the Bay Area and has been a partner with The Goss Real Estate Group for many years. She and her husband raised their two daughters in San Jose, where she successfully continues to build her real estate career. 

After earning a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University, she went on to teach in the San Jose Unified School District for 9 years. Transitioning to real estate was a logical choice, utilizing her patient demeanor to educate all levels of buyers and sellers. Knowledge and experience demonstrate her vested interest in delivering the highest level of care and professionalism to every client. She consistently strives to exceed her client’s expectations throughout the entire real estate transaction and remains a trusted advisor long after each close. 

As a board member on KW Bay Area Estates’ Associate Leadership Council (ALC), she aids in support of culture and professional development strategies for over 180 associates. Terese is also a Director for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors Foundation, which supports community service initiatives in Silicon Valley. 

Terese is the consummate real estate professional dedicated to providing unparalleled service to her clients through ongoing training and education, keeping her on top of the dynamic market and latest real estate trends. Her high-touch approach coupled with honesty and integrity support her commitment to her client’s real estate needs.