Cat Adoption Resources
​

Three Essential Components of Adoption

Bringing Home Your New Cat!
1. Analyze Your Lifestyle
Are you ready to commit to owning a cat for the next 10-20 years? Should you adopt a kitten or an older cat? Do you have other people or animals in your home? Will they get along with the cat, and will the cat get along with them? Is your home going to be the right place for a cat? Each cat has their own unique personality and needs, and it is important to embrace their little quirks!

2. Do your Research and Be Prepared
Did you know that cats are most active at dawn and dusk? And that cats really shouldn't drink milk? It is important you know what to expect before bringing a new cat into your home. While cats are pretty low maintenance companions to have, they still require a few essential things: clean the litter box every day, feed them, and keep them safe. Make sure to get all of your essentials before bringing your cat home. It is best to be already prepared for a cat before completing the adoption process. Look into which litter box would suit an indoor cat, what food is best for them, as well as how to introduce a new cat to a new home.

3. Choose the Right Rescue Group
By choosing to adopt from Friendly and Feral Cat Rescue, you are already on the right track! We make sure our cats are healthy and ready to be adopted when the time is right for them. We provide adopters with up-to-date medical records, which includes spaying and neutering, as well as all required vaccinations and microchipping. Friendly and Feral Cat Rescue is a reputable animal shelter with lots of loving animals waiting for you to meet them!

For more information about adoption, click on the links below.

The First 30 Days
​How to Adopt a Shelter Cat
Introducing Your Cat to Other Pets
Cat Adoption Checklist
Finding a Vet
​
How to Be Prepared Before the First Day

Cats are territorial, and coming into a new home leaves them feeling really uneasy. To make your cat feel more comfortable and not as overwhelmed, designate a small enclosed space just for them. This could be a bathroom or a bedroom, for example. This gives them a space to get comfortable before venturing out into the rest of their new space. Set up a litter box, food bowl, water bowl, and some toys all in the enclosed area. After the cat becomes comfortable with the entire space, these items may be moved. Minimize hiding areas in this space, but do not take them away completely. Your cat needs to feel safe before they start exploring!

The First Day

Bring your cat home in a size appropriate carrier. When you get home, open their carrier and leave it on the floor. Do not force your cat out of it. Your cat will hide, but do not force them out of their hiding spot! Be patient. Your cat needs to adjust to their new environment. Ideally, you would restrict their exposure to the whole family, but naturally, everyone is going to want to see them.
  • Sit on the floor and let them come to you. Don’t force it. Just let them get acquainted on their own time. If they don't approach, leave them alone and try again later. Some cats are particularly frightened, and she may retreat to their hidey hole and not come out when you’re around at all. They may only come out at night when the house is quiet. Give them time.
  • Your newly adopted cat may not eat much or at all at first. It’s best to give your cat the same food they had at the shelter or in their foster home, at least at first. Keeping some things familiar will make them feel more secure. Be sure to change their water frequently and make sure that they are drinking. If your cat hasn’t eaten for a few days, call your vet to ask for advice.

Following Weeks

Your cat may take a week or two to adjust. Every cat is different! You cannot force your cat to open up at your pace. In a cat's world, everything revolves around their schedule. 
  • Within a week of being adopted, take your newly adopted cat for her first wellness visit with a veterinarian. If you have a record of immunizations from the shelter, take it with you.
  • As your cat adjusts, she’ll show signs that she wants to explore outside her safe haven. Make sure other pets or family members won’t startle her while she gradually expands her territory. She may be ready to play, so you can furnish some toys.
​