Cat Adoption Help & 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.
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.
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