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First neutering and now cat adoption advocacy! I am a firm believer in the adopt, don’t shop mentality.
Working for a cat rehoming charity (have a look at my Volunteer’s View of Cats Protection) I come into contact with a lot of people who have found cats, have to give up their cat, had love ones pass away and leave their cats behind and it’s heartbreaking. There are so many cats that need a home that it infuriates me when I see irresponsible breeding and pet shops profiting from selling these animals so I am going to talk all about cat adoption and advocate for why it’s the best option.
Why You Should Adopt
1.Cheaper
Many charities ask for donations and although will have a minimum recommended amount, will often take smaller fees in order to place cats in good, loving homes as long as you can prove that you can take care of them. Unlike charity shops or private sellers who are looking to make money.
2. Safer
Adopting from a reputable charity or centre gives you some assurance as to the welfare of the cat. They are required to vet check any animal that comes into their care and therefore you will generally know of any issues with the cats ahead of your adoption. Unlike buying from a stranger who could lie or not have kept up with vaccinations. (or commonly, kittens that are taken away from their mothers too soon and have a wealth of issues)
3. Helps More Than One Cat
If you adopt from a shelter, charity or rescue centre you are freeing up a space for the hundreds of cats on the street who will at least be able to have a roof over their head to stay warm and be fed. So, adopting one cat helps at least two.
4. The Cats
Many cats have been abandoned, mistreated or living on the streets and starving. Some won’t even have experienced genuine love and affection so they have a lot more love to give when they find their forever homes and they appreciate it!
5. Helps Destroy Pet Shops
The more people stop buying from pet shops, farms and private buyers, the less of a market there becomes. If everyone decided to adopt, owners wouldn’t attempt to breed their cats and pet shops would be discouraged too!
6. House Trained
Many cats, particularly older ones who have previously lived in houses and been given up will be house trained. Meaning you don’t have to deal with the messy stages with accidents (although some adjustment may be needed.) It’s a lot cleaner than those who need to train their kitten.
7. Healthier Cats
Generally, charities will neuter animals before they are adopted as well as provide any immediate vet care including vaccinations which means you won’t have to pay out for these procedures.
they will be taken care of. Some charities also provide a month or two free pet insurance too!
Things To Consider Before You Do
While I am over here preaching about cat adoption, it isn’t for everyone and although a cat will give you plenty of joy, if you have an uncertain or unstable home, it’s important to think about a few things:
- Time – can you give the cat the time it needs? particularly if it is an indoor one or those with health issues
- Stability – Can you provide a stable home and life?
- Type Of Cat – Some cats are considered more hypoallergenic, others will moult less and some are better with children. Look at specific types of cats that will suit your lifestyle.
- Long-Term – Even an older cat will be around for a few years and those in charities and rescues don’t need to be going through the process again. Be sure you want to adopt a cat and that it is a long-term commitment.
- Your Age – Older cats can be perfect companions for the elderly, however, you need to consider what may happen to your cat if you leave it behind. Some charities run schemes that promise to look after your cat if you pass before they do. (check out the Cats Protection Cat Guardianship Scheme)
The Process Of Cat Adoption
Although it differs from organisations and private fosterers will generally be a bit more relaxed, here are the different stages you will probably go through during your cat adoption journey:
- Look online at available cats or visit your local branch, charity or centre (remember you may need to make an appointment)
- Have an interview or discussion on what you are looking for, what they have available and your current living arrangements and lifestyle etc. This matches the right cat to your needs.
- A home visit. Some organisations will check your home to make sure a cat is suitable. This can put many people off but it aims to eradicate problems such as cats being used for baiting and makes sure cats are going to be in a healthy environment.
- Once approved, pick your cat, fill out the paperwork and make a donation.
- Organise to pick your cat up (usually 24-48 hours)
- Take them home, settle them in and give them plenty of love!
Types Of Cats You Can Adopt
Contrary to popular opinion, you can adopt a variety of different cat types including:
- Indoor
- Outdoor
- Farm cats/mousers
- Pedigree breeds
- Older cats
- Kittens
So you can find the right cat to fit your family.
Where To Look – Organisations To Adopt From
UK:
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US:
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*Search for animal charities in your area at Animal Charities Of America.
Have you adopted a cat and how are they getting on? If you have an animal rescue or charity to add to the list, drop a link in the comments and I will add it to the resources!!
This concludes #CatWeek2017, to see what you have missed over the last 7 days, Cat Week Home Page.
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