It can be tempting to gift a cat for the holidays, especially if a loved one has been talking about bringing a feline companion into their lives. However, it’s important to consider the consequences of such a gift. It’s possible the recipient isn’t ready for the responsibility or their lifestyle isn’t conducive to owning a pet.
Owning any kind of pet is a commitment, and sometimes people like the idea of having a cat but aren’t ready for the work and time that goes into its care. Litter-box maintenance, vet costs and scratched furniture are all realities of owning a new cat, and if a person isn’t prepared, they could quickly decide it’s just easier to give the cat away or drop it off at a shelter.
It’s also important to consider whether the person you’re buying a cat for has a lifestyle suitable for a pet. Do they travel often for extended periods of time? Who would take care of their pet while they’re gone? Do they rent a house or an apartment? Are they even allowed pets in their building? It’s also worthwhile to remember that cats can live for 10 to 15-plus years, so you’re making a decision for a person that could affect them for a decade or more.
The decision to adopt or buy a cat should not be made lightly. If you haven’t seriously discussed bringing a pet into someone’s life, it’s probably best not to surprise them for the holidays. Instead, you could gift them some cat accessories or even pet insurance so they’re prepared when they decide it’s time to add a new member to their family.
Hudson’s Bay Financial Services is proud to offer protection through Petline Insurance, Canada’s largest pet insurance company. Petline Insurance reimburses up to 80% of the cost of care and veterinary services if a pet becomes ill or is injured. There are three levels of care and rates start as low as $11.84 a month for cats. Plus, when you purchase pet insurance, you’ll earn Hudson’s Bay Rewards points² along with peace of mind.
Learn more about Petline Insurance.
1 Rates and product details are effective as of July 1, 2018, and are subject to change without notice. All plans are subject to the terms and conditions of your Policy and Documents of Insurance. Premiums vary by breed and where you live. Pet insurance for Hudson’s Bay customers is arranged for by Hudson Bay Financial Services and underwritten by Petline Insurance.
2 Earn 2,000 Hudson’s Bay Rewards points when you purchase a Basic Care plan, 3,000 Rewards points for an Enhanced Care plan and 4,000 Rewards points for an Enhanced Care Plus plan. Rewards points will be issued in equal increments after every six months when you use a valid Canadian-issued credit card to pay for your premiums and will not be pro-rated. Offer valid in Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Quebec and the Yukon.
.