The Go-Go cat. The Go-Go characteristic is what makes most people buy a kitten. It is that utterly adorable trait that, paired up with some big goo-goo eyes, makes everyone go ‘awwwwwww’. Go-Go cats are up for any game, any time. This is the adrenaline-junkie amongst cats, the jock at high school, the sports freak who makes you tired by just watching him doing whatever. Arwen and Falcor have just gotten out of their Go-Go phase (though there are certain relapses sometimes). Consequences include: buying a new scratching post after kittens used old one for months to swing from like a bunch of baboons in order to be able to attack the other.

What are the downsides? Yes, all that jumping around is cute. But all the time? It gets annoying, and worse, exhausting. A cat with boundless energy will drive you nuts. It is constantly jumping from one thing to the next, throwing over god knows what, chewing god knows what, chasing your ankles and biting them, you name it, the Go-Go cat will try it out. That means nothing in your house is safe. Now, a kitten has its limitations: they are often not big enough or strong enough or well balanced enough to reach certain things. But sometimes, they do not grow out of this phase. And they do get bigger and better at what they do. That means nothing in your house will be safe.

These cats are better off outdoors, where they can get rid of this excess energy. Or possibly, in a household with kids who love constantly playing with it (in a respectful way of course). Or possibly, with an owner that has tons of time to play with the kitty. Another alternative is to get a second kitty that can keep up. These cats are typically young male cats, often not neutered and kept outdoors as well as indoors. They do exist in female versions as well. Our Lulu was one before the arrival of the kitties. Being only two years old and used to a garden she raced my house up and down and drove my Diva Prinny mad. Now our Lulu has settled down a bit though. Remember not to leave out any dangerous objects around these cats, and to not use your hands or feet as a toy, because you will teach the cat that biting is ok. And trust me, when they attack your ankles in a full frontal attack, it hurts!

So, why get one? They are natural clowns and entertainers. If there isn’t anything exciting to do, they will make something exciting happen. Your house will be filled with life. While most cats hate change and get stressed, they love it! Something new to discover!! They keep themselves healthy, since they have tons of energy and exercise. Their quirks can make anyone smile, whatever their current mood. And if you do not like lap cats that much, then do not fear: these cats have too much to do to come and occupy your legs constantly. On the other hand, it is very easy to have a good bond with them. Just sit down on the carpet and play with them using a bit of string. They will come running in no time and play forever. They have an insatiable zest for life that is truly an inspiration.

How do you recognize them? Well, getting a kitten will give you a year of go-go-ness at the very least. If you are getting an adult cat, then the safe bet is getting one of 1-2 years old, preferably one that was used to going outdoors. I do recommend neutering, for other reasons, but even then it is possible to have a Go-Go cat. Get the one that is too busy to pay you any attention when you go look at them, until you break out the string and move it about a bit, that is ;).