Has Fluffy replaced Fido as man's best friend? A 2007-08 National Pet Owners Survey, conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, revealed Americans own 88 million cats, compared to 74 million dogs.

At the Hawaiian Humane Society, June is Love-a-Cat month, and there are still many felines awaiting adoption.

It's easy to fall in love at first sight with an animal, but owning a pet is a commitment that can last 20 years or more. In 2006, a cat named Gloria was crowned the oldest feline in the world; she was 26 years old (equivalent to 97 human years).

Consider these factors before deciding whether to welcome a pet into your home.

Time: In these increasingly busy times, are you willing to make time for your new pet? Animal companions need food, water, exercise, love and companionship every day.

Money: Pet ownership can be costly; do you have the budget? Expenses include veterinary care, microchip, license, food, cat litter, toys and grooming.

Space: Can you have an animal companion where you live? Whether you rent or own, potential pet owners should confirm that animals are welcome. Some rentals have a "no pets" policy while others have size restrictions.

Personality: An animal's personality isn't truly revealed until he's brought home. Pets often come with special issues; perhaps your new cat takes pleasure in scratching furniture or the dog isn't housetrained yet. Convincing an animal to change his habits, especially if it is an action that he enjoys, can take several weeks.

During the summer, the Humane Society receives an influx of kittens and cats, and there are several issues to consider in choosing between a kitten or an adult cat.

Last summer, Honolulu resident Leslie Cole adopted Buster Sunshine, an orange tabby, from the Humane Society.

"I chose to adopt a kitten because he is so energetic and I wanted to watch him grow up," said Cole. "When I return home, Buster runs to the door to greet me. He has brought so much love and joy into our home."

Kittens are entertaining and full of energy. Raising a kitten is similar to raising a puppy. Cats need to be socialized — you do this by petting them and talking, and playing with them to build their people skills. Kittens sometimes play rough and have sharp claws, which might not be an ideal match for households with small children.

Kids, in turn,, may handle a kitten too forcefully, which could cause injury. Adult cats can be more patient with children and know when to walk away from situations that are too much to handle for either of them.

Families considering adopting a feline are invited to visit the Humane Society's Cat House, where prospective owners can find out which animal's personality best suits their lifestyle. Since two can be more fun than one, the society is offering two adult felines for a single adoption fee of $60, which covers spay/neuter surgery, a health examination, worming, flea and ear-mite treatment, and microchip ID. The offer ends June 30.

Each Love-a-Cat month adoption will come with a special gift, including a free bag of Nutro food, and adoptive families will be entered to win a cat condo courtesy of Pet's Discount.

Crazy Shirts honors felines with a limited edition Adopt-a-Cat T-shirt. Sales benefit the Hawaiian Humane Society. As an added bonus, T-shirt purchases come with a coupon for a free microchip ID from the society.

ANIMAL COMPANIONS

LELE

TAG NO. 07-7876

Lele is an 8-year-old female pit-bull mix. She is a rich golden brown color with a decorative white stripe that runs down her chest. She is healthy and very sweet and is waiting to join your family today.

KAMEA

TAG NO. 07-8269

Kamea is a gentle, silver and black beauty who will enjoy a quiet home with a warm "com-fur-table" lap to sit on. Although admitted with areas of hair loss, his coat has grown beautifully during his stay at the Humane Society. Kamea has a broken tooth, which may require a visit to the dentist.

KIRBY

TAG NO. 07-6745

In April, 9-year-old Kirby was brought to us as a stray. He is mostly white with some light brown markings. He is active, energetic and enjoys going on long walks. He's been known to bark for attention, but he is a good dog at heart.

These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends and holidays. For directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, go to www.hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost or found animals, ext. 4.