Cats can be very friendly, but they also like to spend time alone. If you decide a cat is the pet for you, make sure you are prepared to look after one. Remember, cats live for 12-18 years and sometimes longer.

During this time it will need to be fed, groomed and played with you. You will have to take your cat to the vet and this can cost a lot of money. There are few things that you need when choosing a cat.

* Is the cat healthy? Look for bright eyes, clean ears and soft fur without tiny black specks left by fleas.

* Cat or kitten? A kitten is adorable but will need a lot more care.

* Cats, like people, have personalities. Choose a cat that seems playful and confident.

Cats are mammal like us, which means that the mothers feed their babies on milk. A kitten should not be taken away from its mother until it has stopped suckling and is eating solid food. This is called weaning. It happens when the kitten is eight to ten weeks old.

Once kitten is old enough to be taken home you should make sure you know how to hold it properly. You must support the whole of the kitten's body and make sure you don't grip too tightly or you could hurt it.

Give your kitten lots of cuddles and strokes. Say your kitten's name as much as possible. Soon your kitten will know the sound of its name and come when you call.

Cats, like all animals, need warmth and shelter, food and water, rest and exercise. A new cat, especially a kitten, needs plenty of attention. Keep it in one room at first, until it has settled in.

Place a blanket in a basket or box to make a cosy bed. Put out food and water bowls. You will also need a litter tray for your cat to use whenever it is not allowed outside. Keep new cats inside for one to two weeks. Kittens should not go out until a vet has given them all their jabs.

Find toys for your cat. They love to hide in boxes or pounce on balls of wool or paper. Empty toilet rolls are entertaining, too. Play helps cats to develop good reactions.

These are lists kits that you may need:

*cat bed, toys, litter tray and cat litter, food and water bowl, carrying case, cat flap, scratching post, grooming brush and food.

Kitten can be mischievous. Make sure you are firm with them so they don't develop bad habits.