If cats could choose their owners, would you make the cut? Perhaps you love to scratch their ears for hours on end or spend long afternoons petting them while they purr away. That's a good start, but any cat will tell you she needs more than petting and scratching.

Cats need dedication, time, and tenderness, and you need to be ready to commit yourself to your cat throughout her lifetime. Too many people take on a cat only to decide the pet is too much trouble or doesn't fit with their lives or families. And you sure don't want to contribute to the millions of cats who roam the streets or live in shelters until their time runs out.

To learn whether you've got what it takes to be a good pet parent, ask yourself these important questions:

Before you adopt, consider your motivation. If you want a friend and confidant who will silently endure your favorite soap opera or who will lounge during the day and snuggle up for evening sitcoms, a cat may be the perfect addition to your life. On the other hand, if you're looking for an occasional diversion or an opportunity to teach your children responsibility, you're better off renting a top-10 movie and teaching your kids to take out the trash.

Another wrong reason to adopt a kitty: She's cute. It won't take long before your impulse buy starts shredding the couch and scaling the drapes. And if you don't get Socks spayed or neutered, you may be faced with the problem of unwanted kittens. Your work may not end with feedings, litter box duty, and ear rubbing. While most cats are pretty self-sufficient - they bathe themselves, what could be easier? - some do need extra grooming from you. Additionally, if your cat gets sick or injured, that will require more of your time, from vet visits to home care.

Let's face it: Some people just aren't cat-lovers. If your spouse or roommates shudder at the mere mention of adopting a cat, discuss their concerns before you bring a frisky kitty into your home. Some breeds are incredibly mellow, including America's favorite purebred, the Persian. List qualities you'd like in a pet - active or mellow, chatty or quiet - and research breeds before presenting your intentions so everyone in the household knows what to expect.

Although some owners might argue this point, cats generally don't need much beyond good food, a scratching post, regular veterinary care, and a sunny spot to nap. But don't let the short shopping list fool you - a pet can be expensive.

Even if your cat spends all her time indoors, she'll need to visit her doctor at least once a year.Her exams, vaccinations, spaying, parasite prevention, and dental care help ensure a long, healthy life.

To put it bluntly, imagine scooping poop out of the litter box every day for the next 15 years or more. Does that scenario jibe with your life plans? If you think you've got what it takes to be a loving, responsible pet owner, take the next step: Decide what characteristics you want in a cat and start looking for the perfect companion. Making an educated decision can mean the difference between a disastrous relationship and endless rewards.