The most exciting days of our lives are when we adopt a new cat into our families! Whether a young kitten or an experienced senior cat, bringing a new feline friend into our homes is a big deal.
But it can also be overwhelming. With so many cats available for adoption, how do you know which one is right for your family?
To be honest, a lot of the time you won’t know, and you’ll need to rely on patience and good practices to help build trust with your new cat as you get to know one another. However, there are some things you can keep in mind during the adoption process to help make sure you are finding the best fit pawsible.
Browse Local Animal Shelters Online
Most animal shelters keep a running database of their adoptable pets on their website. This should be the first place you look when considering adopting a cat. See who is looking for a furever home, read their profiles, and think about if they would make a good fit for your family.
Visit the Cats in Person
After searching online, make a trip to your local shelter to get to know the cats in purrson! Like with people, you won’t be able to tell everything about the cats by their pictures. That cute tabby may have more energy than you can handle or that tuxedo cat may be even sweeter than you imagined.
Spend Time Getting to Know the Cats
Don’t rush this step! Once you’ve started to narrow down who may be your new family member, spend some time with them alone. Most shelters have rooms available for you to interact with the cat and get to know them on a more personal level than kennels can provide.
Ask the Shelter Staff Questions
The shelter staff should be your go-to resource for asking questions about the cat you would like to adopt. They should be able to tell you what that kitty’s purrsonality is like, if they get along with other animals, and if they have any special medical requirements. Don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions!
Be Patient
Once you’ve decided on the cat you’d like to adopt and the paperwork is signed, your new life together can begin! Be patient as your cat acclimates to your home and the people within it. Try to stick to a routine to help them find comfort, and don’t forget to be generous with treats!
If you’re thinking about adopting a cat—or two—take some time to make sure it is the right decision for you and your family. There’s no need to rush an adoption. Being prepared for your new pet (both mentally and around your home) will be the best way to set them and you up for long-term success!
I know a lot about cats, but I’m not a veterinarian. Please don’t take any of the statements I give as medical advice and do always consult your trusted vet, especially before introducing any changes to your cat’s life.
Pawsitive Purrpose 