Loving a pet is special because that relationship is personal to you.
It sounds like Cupid was very loyal and that you bonded well and it is
wonderful that you shared him with your children. I'm very sorry for
your loss of Cupid after 17 years. There is also a terrific online Pet
Grief Support Center at the Rainbow Bridge at
http://www.rainbowsbridge.com/hello.htm
<http://www.rainbowsbridge.com/hello.htm>

We would be happy to see photos of Cupid here on this site in a photo
album!

Take your time selecting your next cat or kitten to be sure it is a good
match for you and your family. After having such a positive
experience, it is worth a little extra time to do some research so that
the next companion you bring into your home is just as special.

12 Weeks For kittens, try to adopt one that grew up with its parents
until at least 12 weeks or older. Although kittens can take care of
themselves physically at 8 weeks old, they learn how to socialize with
people by observing their parents relate to people. By visiting the
kitten's parents, you can see how friendly they are with people. See
"How Young Is Too Young?" at http://www.breedlist.com/faq/young.html
<http://www.breedlist.com/faq/young.html>
<http://www.breedlist.com/faq/young.html>

Father's Personality Surprisingly, research indicates that the kittens
look up to the dominant male cat, probably the father, in relating to
people so you want a friendly father cat that will be a good example to
his baby kittens. See "The Influence of the Father on Kittens'
Temperaments" at http://www.messybeast.com/paternal.htm
<http://www.messybeast.com/paternal.htm>
<http://www.messybeast.com/paternal.htm>



Many articles are written about how to screen a breeder that apply to
what to look for from any home of a kitten or cat. Adopting directly
from the family or person who raised your kitten gives you the most
information and is usually the best option. If there is a breeder you
trust, contact them directly and if they don't have a kitten available,
they may refer you to someone who does.

Again, we'd love to see photos of Cupid and your new kitten when you
have selected one!

Mary





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