10 Great Reasons to Adopt a Cat from a Shelter | Academy Pet Hospital (2023)

If you’re considering bringing a feline companion into your home, and wondering where to look, an animalshelteris a great option. There are so many reasons to adopt from a shelter, but here are 10 of my favorites.

1. You’ll save more than one life by adopting a cat

According to the ASPCA, 3.2 million cats can be found in shelters every year and of these, about 860,000 are euthanized annually. Adopting a cat not only helps one of these many animals, looking for a home, but also opens a space for shelters and rescue groups to take in another cat.

2. It makes good financial sense to adopt a cat

For a relatively low fee, you’ll take home a cat that is alreadyspayedorneutered, up-to-date onvaccinesandmicrochipped. Many shelters and rescues will also include extras in the adoption fee such as a cat collar, a bag offoodorpet insurance.

(Video) Cat Care at the Pet Hospital ( Animal Shelter Sim Game )

3. The personality of an adopted cat is known

Cats in many shelters interact with their caretakers and volunteers every day, and these people really get to know their personalities. Particularly with adult cats, you can find a companion with the type of temperament you’re looking for. You could find a playful, active cat or a calmer feline who prefers cuddling and a quieter environment.

4. It’s good for your mental health to adopt a cat

According to Research Gate, owning a cat, or any pet you adopt from a shelter, has been shown to have positive effects on humans’ ability to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Taking a cat home from a shelter can improve your sense of happiness and general well-being.

5. Adopting a cat is great for your heart!

A recent study found that owning a cat may lead to a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease and stroke2. This is an important finding considering the AHA/ASA says, “Stroke is the number 3 cause of death in women and number 4 cause of death in men.

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6. Cats improve children’s resistance to asthma

According to Clinical & Experimental Allergy, research has found that early exposure to a cat in the home can actually reduce infants’ sensitization to the allergens cats produce3. As a result, kids have a reduced chance of developing allergic diseases.

7. There’s a wide variety of cats to adopt

You can find any type of cat you want at a shelter, fromkittensto seniors, short-haired to long-haired, all sizes and colors. In fact, if you’re looking for a specific breed, such as aSiamese, you can contact cat-specific rescue groups to find your new friend.

8. A cat can make your other pets happy

If you have another cat, or a cat-friendly dog, bringing another cat home from a shelter can help reduce feelings of loneliness during the day when you’re out. Of course, you will want to ask the shelter to help you “cat test” your dog, and if you have a cat, expect a period of adjustment before the new and current cats feel comfortable together.

(Video) I Tried Working At A Cat Shelter …but The Cats Were Creepy

9. Cats are perfect for apartment dwellers

If you live in an apartment, condo or other small space, a cat can be an excellent companion because cats don’t require lots of room or daily walks like a dog. Cats are generally low maintenance and if you provide them withtoys(like cat trees and window rests for enrichment), they make wonderful roommates.

10. Cats are excellent senior companions

Cats, particularly older, calmer cats, can provide loving companionship to older adults. They’re easy to care for, and you can find one at a shelter that matches your lifestyle with some helpful advice from the shelter staff and volunteers.

These are just 10 reasons– there are many more!

(Video) Friends of Felines Rescue Center

To adopt a cat, you can visitPetfinderandAdopt-a-Petto find cats in shelters and rescues near you. Your veterinary office or local pet stores can also provide referrals to rescue groups and many hold cat adoptions themselves.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Resources

(Video) Adopt New Baby Kittens in Animal Shelter Cat Sim Nursery

FAQs

How do you answer a cat adoption question? ›

Be honest in your answers and don't lie about anything that you're asked. It's tempting to write down what you think the rescue wants to hear, but this could lead to you matching with a cat or dog who won't fit well in your home environment.

Why it's better to adopt a pet from a shelter? ›

Because you'll help a pet in need.

While the number of animals who are euthanized has dropped drastically over the years due to the hard work of shelter and rescue professionals and a growing number of people who choose adoption, hundreds of thousands are still in need of a home each year.

Why do you want to adopt a pet answer? ›

Beyond just helping an animal in need, you're giving a rescue an opportunity to find their voice; to be themselves and get a second chance to become a dog beyond the walls of shelter or rescue. You truly give them the keys to start anew in a life where second chances can often be hard to come by.

What to say when applying to adopt a cat? ›

When filling out an adoption application, be thorough. Provide as many details as possible about your living situation, family experience and how you plan to care for the animal. Explain your previous experience with raising an animal, including training and exercise regiments.

What is a good reason to adopt a cat? ›

According to Research Gate, owning a cat, or any pet you adopt from a shelter, has been shown to have positive effects on humans' ability to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Taking a cat home from a shelter can improve your sense of happiness and general well-being.

How adopting a pet saves lives? ›

Pet Adoption: Save an Animal's Life
  • You will save a life. When you adopt a pet from a shelter, you'll give that animal a second chance at life – and save them from potential euthanization.
  • You'll save money and receive a healthy animal. ...
  • You'll have a large selection of pets to choose from.
Dec 17, 2015

What are the advantages and disadvantages of adopting a pet? ›

The Pros and Cons of Owning a Pet: 8 Things to Consider
  • Con: More Living Expenses. As a dependent, a pet will add to your living expenses. ...
  • Pro: Unconditional Love and Companionship. ...
  • Con: Care When You're Away. ...
  • Pro: Home Safety. ...
  • Con: Time Consumption. ...
  • Pro: Built-In Icebreaker. ...
  • Con: Health Care Costs. ...
  • Pro: Someone to Nurture.

What to consider before adopting a pet? ›

10 Things To Do Before You Adopt a Pet
  • Prepare Yourself and Your Family. ...
  • Spend Time With Them Before You Bring Them Home. ...
  • Set Up a Space Just For Them. ...
  • Pet Proof Your Home. ...
  • Find a Local Veterinarian.
  • Look Into Pet Insurance. ...
  • Plan to Introduce Them to Other Pets. ...
  • Find a Good Dog Trainer.
Jan 19, 2021

What are good reasons to get a pet? ›

There are many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship.

How do I pass a cat adoption interview? ›

Avoid asking only yes/no questions—ask probing questions and have the adopter tell their story: Ask about what cats they have owned over the years and what happened to them, etc. Indoor/Outdoor – ask questions that will lead to what their intention is regarding if the cat will be living outdoors, or going outside.

What is the first thing you should do when you adopt a cat? ›

Tips for the First 30 Days After Adopting a Cat
  1. Let Your Cat Settle In. ...
  2. Keep Your New Cat Separate From Your Other Cats. ...
  3. Have Her Space Set up Beforehand. ...
  4. Provide Enrichment for Your Cat. ...
  5. Establish Structure and Routine. ...
  6. Slowly Transition to New Cat Food. ...
  7. Establish a Relationship With a Veterinarian.
May 21, 2019

What are the pros and cons of adopting a cat? ›

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cat Ownership
ProsCons
They may help control pestsMany people are allergic to them
They are cute when youngVeterinary care is expensive
They don't require that much spaceThey may kill small animals
You don't have to walk themThey are strong-willed
8 more rows
Oct 17, 2022

Are cats happy in shelters? ›

Shelters can be very stressful places for cats, leaving them prone to physical and behavioral problems like weight loss, over-grooming, self-trauma, aggression, withdrawal, bladder problems and upper respiratory infections.

Is adopting a cat a big commitment? ›

Taking on the responsibility for an animal, whether it's feline or canine, is a lifetime commitment. It's not a commitment that is disposable when it no longer suits your purposes or your lifestyle.

What are 3 of the main reasons animals end up in shelters? ›

Why Do Animals End Up in Animal Shelters?
  • Moving.
  • Landlord does not allow pet.
  • Too many animals in household.
  • Cost of pet maintenance.
  • Owner having personal problems/illness/death.
  • Inadequate facilities.
  • No homes available for litter mates.
  • Having no time for pet.

What to do if you regret adopting a pet? ›

The best course of action may involve returning the pet to the animal shelter or rescue organization that you adopted from (some adoption contracts stipulate that you return the pet if things aren't going well). If this isn't the case or isn't possible, rehoming the pet yourself may be the best choice.

Is adopting a pet worth it? ›

Why should I adopt a rescue dog? The benefits of adopting a pet from a shelter are endless. When you adopt a dog from an animal shelter, you are saving a life. By adopting, you are not only providing a loving home for a deserving animal, but you are freeing up space and resources for another animal in need.

Is it better to adopt or buy a pet? ›

Surrendered animals are most often already house-trained and used to living with families. Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is much less expensive than buying a pet at a pet store or through other sources. Buying a pet can cost thousands of dollars; adoption costs range from $50 to $375.

How soon is too soon to adopt a new pet? ›

The time to obtain a new pet is when you have worked through your grief sufficiently to be confident that you can look forward to new relationships, rather than backward at your loss. For some people, that might be a matter of days or weeks; for others, it might be months or years.

What is the best common pet to adopt? ›

1) Peacock

The Peacock in Roblox Adopt Me! is a legendary pet released in April 2021 that is currently available for 550 Robux (in-game currency). It is an S-Tier pet with bright colors.

What are the stages of a pet adopt me? ›

These are what each Neon stage stands for in a regular pet.
  • Reborn - Newborn.
  • Twinkle - Junior.
  • Sparkle - Pre-Teen.
  • Flare - Teen.
  • Sunshine - Post-Teen.
  • Luminous - Full Grown.

What is the best age to get a pet? ›

The age of your children is one factor to consider when getting a pet. Generally, since many dog bite injuries happen to young children, it may be safest to wait until your child is older than age 4.

What are two advantages of having a pet? ›

9 benefits of having a pet
  • Pets will help you increase your social interactions. ...
  • Pets help with loneliness. ...
  • Pets can help with your fitness. ...
  • Pets can reduce stress and anxiety. ...
  • Pets can help children learn. ...
  • Pets can help people with disabilities. ...
  • Pets make you happy. ...
  • Pets can help us cope with a crisis.

Why pets are good for your mental health? ›

The companionship of a pet can help to ease your anxiety. boosting self-confidence. Pets can be great listeners, offer unconditional love and won't criticise you. This can help your self-confidence, especially if you feel isolated or misunderstood.

What questions are asked in a cat adoption interview? ›

Screening Questions
  • Do you have other animals in the home? Please describe.
  • Have you ever surrendered an animal to an animal shelter?
  • Do you intend to have the cat declawed?
  • Describe a typical day in your home for the cat(s).

What are two health issues you should check for when adopting a cat? ›

Five common cat health problems for cat owners that every pet owner should know
  • Diarrhea. Diarrhea is a common cat health problem of cats of all ages. ...
  • Ringworm. ...
  • Respiratory infections/ eye issues. ...
  • Inappetence. ...
  • Litter box issues/habits.

What questions do they ask when adopting a cat? ›

7 Questions When Adopting a Cat
  • Is the Cat Litter Trained? ...
  • What is the Cat's Temperament? ...
  • Does the Cat Get Along with Other Animals? ...
  • Why Was the Cat Surrendered? ...
  • What Information Does the Rescue have About the Cat's Background? ...
  • Is the Cat in Good Health? ...
  • Has the Cat Been Vaccinated? ...
  • Final Thoughts.
Jan 24, 2022

Where should a cat sleep on first night? ›

This means that the best place for a kitten to sleep is a secure spot, sheltered from draughts and warm enough is the best set up. It is a good idea to have the kitten close to you for the first few nights. Find a cosy place next to your bed and you can even choose a spot up off the floor if possible.

How long does it take a shelter cat to adjust? ›

Most cats will adjust within one to two weeks. If you have a multiple-animal household, it may take several months for everyone to fully adjust.

Where should cat sleep first night in new home? ›

A secure and comfortable room like the laundry is ideal, or you might even want to consider a pen or large crate so that you can control your kitten's movements at night. Kittens love to be nice and cosy, so make sure there are lots of blankets, and that the bed has reasonably high sides to provide extra warmth.

How long does it take for an adopted cat to trust you? ›

It depends on your cat's personality. With that said, you should see your kitty growing more comfortable around you within a week or two. (You can learn more about what to expect from our article on Moving With Pets: Preparing and Settling Into a New Home.)

How long does it take for a cat to adjust to a new owner? ›

Allow your cat several weeks to adapt. During this period, the cat or kitten should be carefully confined indoors. He needs to get used to you as the provider of love, shelter and food. Be sure that all windows and doors are kept closed and that all screens are secure.

What questions do they ask in a pet adoption interview? ›

Interviewing Callers
  • Get the caller's name, address, phone number and email. ...
  • Do they own or rent their home? ...
  • Does the caller have children? ...
  • Does the caller currently have dogs or other pets? ...
  • If the caller does not currently have dogs, have they had dogs before? ...
  • Do they have a yard?

Is it normal to feel regret after adopting a cat? ›

It's normal — especially for first-timers — to feel a bit overwhelmed. If you're questioning your decision or wondering how to cope with feelings of anxiety, regret, or guilt, please understand that these feelings are quite common and they almost always pass with a bit of time.

How long does it take an adopted cat to settle? ›

This is usually about 4 weeks, but could be longer for some shy and timid cats. Whilst your cat is settling in, they may exhibit behaviours including: Hiding. Not interacting.

How long does it take an adopted cat to get comfortable? ›

Most cats will adjust within one to two weeks. If you have a multiple-animal household, it may take several months for everyone to fully adjust.

How long should you keep a cat in when you adopt? ›

You may be tempted to let your cat outside as soon as possible, but generally it's best to allow at least 2-3 weeks and up to 4-6 weeks after you first take them home. This will give them plenty of time to settle in their new environment.

What should I wear to an interview at an animal shelter? ›

Interview tips at Animal Shelter
  • Casual (t-shirt and jeans)53%
  • They didn't have a dress code19%
  • Business casual (e.g. dress slacks)14%
  • Formal (business suit)8%
  • Special outfit (e.g. protective gear)6%

What should be included in a pet adoption reference? ›

What should be included?
  • Information as to how they know you, including how long they may have known you.
  • Any information about your character.
  • Describe your strengths.
  • Do they recommend that you adopt.
  • Attributes you may have that would be fitting for adopting/parenting a child.
  • Information about your marriage/relationship.

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