Adopting a cat may ease holiday depression

Q. I hate to admit it, but during the holidays I get bummed out, even with family and friends around me. Is this a good time to get a cat?

-Estelle Stevens, Glen Ellyn

A. There is so much controversy about adopting a pet out of impulse. But I have to say, this is one impulse that is going to give you comfort for many holiday seasons to come.

You are not alone. Many people have trouble with the holidays, and there is nothing more soothing than that "dependent but feigning independent" cat greeting when you return home. The stretch, the scratching on the post and then the meander over to you for your ritual greeting of purrs and rubs on the legs.

Cats will watch TV with you and you get to pick all the programs, although I have heard they enjoy watching the occasional "Meerkat Manor" special on Animal Planet.

The holidays can be a great time to bond with a new pet. You may have some days off for you and your new cat to learn about each other.

There are some helpful tips for adopting during this time of the year.

If you entertain, make sure your kitty has a quiet place equipped with a litter box, food and water to take refuge while the festivities are going on. Especially when company is coming and leaving, keep kitty in a quiet place in the home.

Of course, if you find you have a social butterfly that wants to know everyone and be a part of the fun, make sure that identification tags are worn at all times just in case kitty slips outside. That way he or she can be returned home quickly.

Kitty love might be just what you need to help with the holiday blues. Whether you choose a cat or a kitten, I assure you when you come into the shelter one will adopt you. It is rarely the other way around.

• Kerry Vinkler is director of DuPage County Animal Care and Control. To submit a question, e-mail animalcontrol@Dupageco.org; mail to 120 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL 60187; visit www.dupageco.org/animalcontrol; or call (630) 407-2800.