[header] How to select just the right cat [title] Go to the pet store/neighbor's house, or wherever there is a litter of kittens that need adoption. [title] Ask the owner how they have been treated, and if they have any medical conditions. [step] You should get an idea of which ones are mellow, and which ones are friendly. 
Enter the area where they are kept and sit down. Again, the friendly, curious ones will probably come up to you, and the shy, mellow ones will hang back.