Although cats weren't tamed until some six thousand years later than dogs, the fact that there are now almost as many domesticated cats as there are dogs in the world, indicates their growing popularity as pets. In many countries they were considered to be sacred and adored, and killing a cat meant a death penalty. The ancient Egyptians were fierce defenders of their cats and tried to ban their export to other countries. The natural talent cats have as efficient hunters earned them their place in society as well as the people's recognition, as these attractive and agile creatures managed an efficient control over all kinds of other animals which transmit diseases, epidemics and plagues.
Although they are generally considered to be more independent than dogs, cats also require appropriate attention and care, if one wants them to enjoy a good health and happiness. The responsibility for the cat's well being only falls on the owners, who have the obligation of making sure that they are not neglected or treated with cruelty.
SHELTER
If your cat has to live outside it will need a covered place where it can sleep and also be protected from an excess of sun or a cold climate. Cats must have a shelter with an old box for a bed and a blanket to lie on. The bed must be away from drafts and easy to get to.
FOOD AND WATER
In order to maintain good and healthy physical conditions, cats need a nutritional and varied diet as they are not fond of scraps or left-overs. Cats need a larger amount of meat than dogs, as well as proteins and fats in their food. There are many kinds of cat food which provide a balanced diet: fresh meat and fish are the best; tinned foods can also provide a balanced nutrition; dry foods can also be a supplement to their diet. It is important for cats to always have clean water available, especially if they are fed on dried foods.
A varied diet will keep your cat happy and healthy. Adult cats should eat twice a day. Kittens, old cats, and pregnant cats need to eat more times a day but in smaller amounts. Cats don't have to be hungry to feel the hunting instinct, they just do it naturally. Healthy cats are better hunters.
HUMAN COMPANY
One of the reasons that some people prefer cats to dogs is the fact that, in many ways, they are less demanding. You don't have to take them out for a walk. But you do have to let them know you love them and that they form part of the home. A stroke or loving word will show them this. A thankful cat will show this by purring and rubbing along your legs.
HYGIENE
If cats are neglectful or live in dirty conditions, they can easily be infected by parasites such as worms, ticks, fleas or lice. The treatment against these infections should be diagnosed by a veterinary. You must collaborate by keeping the cat's bed, shelter and surroundings clean.
Healthy cats have shiny coats, clear eyes and a clean nose with no mucous. The ears must be clear of dirt or infections. The teeth should be strong and white, not off-colour. If infected gums go without treatment, the teeth can fall out and the cat will have difficulty in eating.
VACCINES
Cats are vulnerable to many diseases which could be dangerous or difficult to cure. The best way of protecting your cat is through a vaccine. This not only helps prevent diseases, but also gives better results (cost-effective) in the long run, by reducing the risks of being infected by other cats.
BRUSHING
Whether you have a long or short-haired cat, they must all benefit with a good brush. Long haired cats need more attention for keeping their coats clean and unknotted, as if this is not done, with time it will restrict their mobility. Cats enjoy the attention they receive when being brushed and this is an ideal opportunity for controlling parasites.
STERILIZATION
Each year, hundreds of cats are unnecessarily sacrificed as there are no homes available for them. Many of them are the indiscriminate result of accidental mating. The most effective way of overcoming this problem is through sterilizing the animal. As well as reducing the number of unwanted kittens, castration brings other benefits. Castrated cats do not spread their unpleasant smell about, which they do to mark their territory and attract the females. Once castrated, this behaviour ceases. Meetings with other male cats can cause fights and injuries which could be difficult to cure. Castrated cats become more loyal and affectionate and their abilities for hunting are not affected.
OFFSPRING
Female cats are capable of breeding many times a year. The average number of kittens in a litter are four, although some cats can have more. It would be a difficult task to find homes each year for the kittens of only one cat. This multiplied by hundreds of cats, rapidly increments the problem.
Pregnant cats and kittens need a larger diet, and kittens between three and six weeks already need solid food. She cats can become very protective of their kittens which can mean a risk for children who want to play with them. Once a cat has been sterilized, it will never be in heat again and male cats will keep away. Sterilized cats enjoy a better state of health, live more and happier.
THE OPERATION
At present, the modern veterinary equipment and medicines make surgical operations safe and painless, and allow the animal to have a fast recuperation. Your veterinary will advise you about the best time for the operation. There is no reason to justify the thought that your cat has to have a litter before being sterilized. The sooner the operation is made, the less amount of problems will appear.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR CAT 
If your cat has to live outside it will need a covered place where it can sleep and also be protected from an excess of sun or a cold climate. Cats must have a shelter with an old box for a bed and a blanket to lie on. The bed must be away from drafts and easy to get to. 
In order to maintain good and healthy physical conditions, cats need a nutritional and varied diet as they are not fond of scraps or left-overs. Cats need a larger amount of meat than dogs, as well as proteins and fats in their food. There are many kinds of cat food which provide a balanced diet: fresh meat and fish are the best; tinned foods can also provide a balanced nutrition; dry foods can also be a supplement to their diet. It is important for cats to always have clean water available, especially if they are fed on dried foods. 
One of the reasons that some people prefer cats to dogs is the fact that, in many ways, they are less demanding. You don't have to take them out for a walk. But you do have to let them know you love them and that they form part of the home. A stroke or loving word will show them this. A thankful cat will show this by purring and rubbing along your legs. 
Whether you have a long or short-haired cat, they must all benefit with a good brush. Long haired cats need more attention for keeping their coats clean and unknotted, as if this is not done, with time it will restrict their mobility. Cats enjoy the attention they receive when being brushed and this is an ideal opportunity for controlling parasites. 
Female cats are capable of breeding many times a year. The average number of kittens in a litter are four, although some cats can have more. It would be a difficult task to find homes each year for the kittens of only one cat. This multiplied by hundreds of cats, rapidly increments the problem. 
At present, the modern veterinary equipment and medicines make surgical operations safe and painless, and allow the animal to have a fast recuperation. Your veterinary will advise you about the best time for the operation. There is no reason to justify the thought that your cat has to have a litter before being sterilized. The sooner the operation is made, the less amount of problems will appear.