Get ready for your new best friend. If you're longing for the pitter-patter of four furry feet, you have some homework to do. When new cat owners aren't prepared, it's the cat who suffers, so it's very important to consider all angles of cat care and ownership before making the commitment. This book starts with the process of selecting a suitable cat for your home and lifestyle and goes on to discuss the present and future requirements of feeding, grooming, training, healthcare, and much more to fully educate prospective new cat owners. Inside 77 Things to Know before Getting a Cat: Advice on selecting a kitten or adult cat based on your family, living space, and lifestyle; Buying a purebred from a breeder versus adopting from a shelter or rescue group; The equipment and supplies you'll need before the cat comes home; Getting the cat acclimated to his new environment; Feeding, grooming, training, and healthcare for all life stages; Keeping your cat safe at home and away; Illustrations, charts, and checklists, to help you plan and prepare.