It’s finally happening. We’re getting a kitten!

I’ve never been so excited in my life. I put off articles until today to research what to do for a new kitten (it’s been awhile), and my siblings and I have got it all planned out. We’re even deep cleaning the carpets today to get any pet smells that are lingering out of the carpet before the new kitty comes home. This is her below:

Even my mom is excited. I caught her looking at crochet patterns for cat beds (she crochets, and she’s quite good at it). My dad is the tough nut to crack. He insists he doesn’t want to have anything to do with the kitten, but I know that sweet little face will win him over soon enough. He’s a dog person, so it might be tougher than expected.

My sister, kind heart that she is, wanted to get a kitten to help me with my depression and anxiety. Although I insisted that not be the main reason we’re getting one, I was glad she had my mental health in mind when making the decision to get a kitten. I think it would definitely be good for me. There are a lot of benefits from having a pet. They tend to be lovable sorts (well, the furry ones… I’m not sure about tarantulas), and I’ll be able to give this kitten all the love and attention she needs.

The only problem is that I work at home. I’m going to have to figure out how to balance work and kitty time. Sure, I could just ignore her pitiful meows, but what kind of mother would I be? Even if I did ignore her when working, you know how cats are: they crawl up in your lap and force you to turn your attention towards them or they sit their furry butts right down on your keyboard, preventing you from typing. I know their tricks.

I know I’ve done a blog post on animal-assisted therapy before, but I’d just like to recap the benefits, with a special focus on what kittens can do for you (sorry dog-lovers!).

• Cat owners make less trips to the doctor. This has been seen in nursing homes where those exposed to therapy cats have fewer, less expensive medication costs.
• Longer life! The fountain of youth can’t be found in creams and medications, but it can be found in the soft purr of your favorite feline friend.
• Cats can reduce your stress levels and lower your blood pressure.
• They can help with your anxiety and depression. Something happens to the human body when it pets a dog or cat, and that something helps distract a person from their troubles. Caring for a kitten can help instill a sense of responsibility and help ease symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Cat owners are at a reduced risk for cardiovascular (heart) diseases, and owning a cat can improve your immune system.

There are plenty of other reasons to own a cat, but those are the main ones for me, I guess.

You guys, I’m seriously excited for this kitten. It’s going to be really hard to back off for the first few days and let her adjust to her surroundings when all I want to do is cuddle the snuggles right out of her. I can’t wait to give her her first bath. It’s getting filmed.

Most of all, I’m looking forward to relief from my anxiety and depression. A cat will by no means solve the problem, but she’ll certainly help. OMG KITTENS.