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Complete Cat Adoption Guide

Adopting a Cat from a Shelter

Cat shelters and rescues are overflowing with wonderful cats who simply need a home. Unlike dogs, cats in shelters often stay in cages for extended periods, making adoption even more transformative for them. When you adopt a shelter cat, you open a cage door and begin a new chapter for both of you.

🏠
3.2M
Cats enter US shelters yearly
💵
$50-150
Typical adoption fee
💔
530K
Cats euthanized yearly
🐈‍⬛
50%
Cats in shelters are black

💡Expert Tips

Let Cats Choose You

Spend time in the cat room sitting quietly. The cats who approach you are showing interest. Don't try to coax out the ones hiding — they may need a more experienced adopter.

Consider the Overlooked

Black cats are adopted at half the rate of other colors. Senior cats wait months. Shy cats are overlooked for outgoing ones. These cats can be wonderful companions.

Ask About Personality

Staff and volunteers know these cats. Ask about energy level, cuddliness, good with other cats/dogs/kids. Trust their assessments.

Foster-to-Adopt

Many shelters offer fostering first. You see the cat in a home environment before committing. Great for nervous first-time adopters.

✅Pre-Adoption Checklist

Think about what energy level you want
Spend time in the cat room, let cats come to you
Ask staff about the cat's history and temperament
Consider a bonded pair if you can
Complete the adoption application
Pay adoption fee ($50-$150 typically)
Get all medical records
Buy supplies before bringing them home

📅What to Expect: Timeline

Before Visit

Consider what you want: lap cat vs independent, playful vs calm, kitten vs adult.

At Shelter

Multiple visits if possible. Sit with cats. Ask questions. Complete application.

Adoption Day

Get all records. Prepare home with supplies before pickup.

First Weeks

2-2-2 rule. Safe room. Patience. Let them adjust at their own pace.

⚠️Important Considerations

  • •Shelter cats are often stressed - personality emerges at home
  • •Most come spayed/neutered and vaccinated
  • •Adult cats are often overlooked for kittens
  • •Black cats are least likely to be adopted
  • •You're giving a cat a second chance

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are some cats in cages and others in communal rooms?▼
Cats in communal rooms are generally more social and cat-friendly. Caged cats may need alone time, be recovering from medical procedures, new arrivals, or not yet temperament tested. Don't assume caged = unfriendly.
Should I adopt a bonded pair?▼
If you can, yes! Bonded cats are often littermates or former roommates who rely on each other for comfort. Separating them causes significant stress. Together, they adjust better and entertain each other.
The cat I want is FIV+. Should I be concerned?▼
FIV+ cats can live long, healthy lives. FIV is transmitted through deep bite wounds, so it's safe for them to live with non-aggressive cats. They cannot transmit to humans. Many adopters specifically seek FIV+ cats because they're harder to place.
What if my new cat doesn't use the litter box?▼
First, ensure the box is clean, accessible, and in a quiet location. Cats may reject scented litter. Medical issues (UTI) can cause litter box avoidance. Give them time to adjust before worrying — stress causes temporary issues. If it persists, consult your vet.

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