June is Adopt a Cat Month. The main reason for this is the overwhelming number of kittens born this time of year who have nowhere to live - nowhere safe or comfortable, that is.

But at a shelter, at least they’re off the street, out of the heat and have access to clean food and water and a litter pan. And for many cats who live outside all the time, it can seem like paradise. For a while. Eventually they will miss the green grass and socializing with other creatures, getting to roam the great outdoors the way nature intended.

So if you are even a little bit on the fence about getting a kitten or a cat, this is a call to arms. Do it! Adopt a cat now!

Here is my personal list of the top 10 things to know before you adopt a cat – or, should I say, before you let a cat adopt you.

1. Cats are proud creatures. They are not interested in propping up your sagging ego with a wagging tail or panting tongue out. Having said this, they will love you eventually with a love more pure than canine fakery. 

2. They are less expensive than dogs in money and time. They eat less, take up less room and do not require daily walks.

3. Cats can be indoor and outdoor and take care of themselves. You can go on vacation for a few days and that’s fine with your cat.

4. Ten minutes of interaction a day, from petting to play, is all your cat requires. They are independent.

5. Good pest patrol providers, a cat will keep snakes, mice, insects and other intruders from hanging around your home both in and out.

6. If your cat is an indoor/outdoor cat, litter becomes unimportant. They will prefer to go outdoors. Still, it is much neater and dependable to have a litter pan set up for them. 

7. Cats are self-groomers. While your cat will enjoy a good brush or rub down by a lint roller, it is not necessary. Not only do they have the decency to bury their waste matter, they fastidiously groom themselves. If your cat doesn’t groom himself, he’s sick. 

8. Cats are quiet and neat. If your cat makes noise, there’s a reason for it. If your cat makes a mess, there’s most definitely a reason for it. He’s making a statement.

9. Cats meow for you and you alone. Cats don’t use meows to talk to each other. He’s either greeting you after an absence or asking for something. Probably food or attention. Incessant meows mean he’s upset and he needs your focused attention.

10. Cats are naturally calm and meditative. They will add a presence to your home of non-judgmental witnessing. All of this in exchange for a little food, water and place to rest its little body.

Now is the time to adopt a cat. 

Standard reporter JL Jacobs can be contacted at jjacobs@southernstandard.com