HYDERABAD: There is a rise in the adoption of cats in India. There are totally 40 lakh cats in the country and half of it in urban India itself, said members of the panel discussion that was conducted on Thursday by pet food manufacturer Mars International as part of its talk on ‘Cat adoption in India.’
Ganesh Ramanai, MD Mars India, Nitin Kulkarni, Director Corporate Affairs Mars India, and others took part in the discussion.
Reason for rise:
Most people consider cats (usually more than one) as pets if they are likely to be away from home for much of the day - 9 to 5 job or frequent travelers.
Cats are solitary animals, but intelligent and like to spend most time alone. In additions cats are not expensive to maintain considering their feeding behaviour and habits. Likewise cats take up less space and there is no need to take them for walk or exercise. Of course, cats keep themselves clean and despite lack of bath.
Feasibility too:
Cats are very independent animals; however, the responsibility for their health and physical wellbeing ultimately lies with you. Cats clearly need a balanced diet like Whiskas brand of catfood, to keep fit and healthy; you will need to supply shelter, general care and regular visit to vet and companionship to keep your cat healthy and happy throughout her life.
In addition, the things that keep cats happy are appropriate hiding and perching places that can reduce stress (at least two rooms and resting and hiding places like shelves, platforms, windowsills). Cats also require human contact and mental stimulation and toys could be help to stimulate their senses
Popular cat breeds:
It is estimated that there are about 70 to 80 different breeds of cat. Abyssinian, British Blue Shorthair, Burmese, Chinchilla, Cornish Rex, Devon Rex, Havana Russian Blue are a few examples.
Maine Coon and Norwegian Forest are becoming increasingly populartoos. Siamese, Persian and domestic short hair cat are most popular in India.