Top 7 Tips to Follow When You Adopt a Rescue Cat

Ah, the joys of adopting a rescue cat.

But, it can only be an exciting new addition to your family if you find a cat that is a good match for your household. It’s easy to fall in love with a cat at first sight, but pet ownership is a long-term commitment, so it is critical to find a cat that fits your lifestyle.

If you’re considering adopting a cat, you’ll want to view these to better understand the cat’s personality and needs before making a final decision. Keep on reading for our full breakdown of the seven essential strategies you’ll want to follow before you adopt a cat from the cat rescue.

Observe a Rescue Cat’s Age and Personality

You may use this information to determine whether the cat is a good fit for you. Kittens, for example, are rambunctious and need a lot of care. Choose an adult cat that is already housebroken if you don’t have the time to spend training and playing with them.

Elderly cats demand more of your time and attention because of various health issues that are commonly associated with older cats.

What do you want in a cat? A lap cat or a cat that prefers to be left alone? It would help if you considered the cat’s disposition before adopting it.

The personality of various cat breeds is distinct. Request a recommendation from the shelter or rescue organization for a cat that fits your personality and lifestyle before you adopt.

Look at Your Financial Situation

Even while cats are less expensive on average, owning one is still not inexpensive. To adopt a cat from a shelter, you’ll have to pay an adoption fee of $50 to $100. Fortunately, spaying/neutering and vaccinations are standard procedures for shelter cats, so the cost of caring for the animals is kept to a minimum.

It’s possible that you’ll need to buy a variety of items when you bring home a new feline family member. When renting a home, you may be asked to put down a pet deposit or fee. Fees for items like food, litter, and veterinarian care will be due after that.

It would be best if you planned to spend about $634 per year on your cat. There is no way to account for the cost of pet insurance, which may save you money in the long term if you acquire it while your cat is healthy.

Consider Your Environment and Your Household

Is your house big enough to accommodate a cat? You’ll need a lot of room for your cat’s litter box, a bed, and a feeding station, as well. Cats also need mental stimulation in the form of scratchers and interactive toys. Consider placing these items at various heights if you don’t have a lot of room.

Make an effort to incorporate toys and scratchers into your living environment. As a result, your cat may get bored and engage in destructive behavior, such as clawing the furniture.

How many people are in your household? Make sure your housemates are okay with getting a cat before you acquire one. Every member of the household should also be on board with the idea of obtaining a new pet.

Select a Cat That Is the Right Age for Your Daily Life

Cats are adorable, but they take a lot of early training and effort, as well as constant supervision to ensure they’re using their litter box, not scratching the furniture, or eating plants in their homes. Check your schedule to see whether you have the time to teach a kitten.

Most adult cats are already housetrained, have their routine, and don’t need the extra training that comes with learning everything from scratch with a new kitten.

Take Your Time With the Adoption Process

Slowly wander around the cat room at the rescue shelter to notice how each cat responds to you. Spend a few minutes with the cats that seem friendly and look like they could be interesting to you. Some of them may exhibit an interest in getting to know you better. Give them some time and space, but watch how they respond when they’re touched or taken up.

The staff may also arrange a private room with a cat you’re interested in, so you can witness how the two of you interact. Don’t be afraid to come back a few times before making up your mind.

Make sure to bring your kids to the rescue organization to see the cats you’re interested in if you have any. Observe the relationship between your children and the cat. Raising children in a pet-friendly environment has numerous advantages, but it is not something that you should handle lightly.

It would help if you looked for a feline friend that is tolerant of children and appreciates their attention.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask a Ton of Questions

Ask whatever questions you believe are relevant to your decision-making process. Please inquire about the cat’s behavior, medical history, and any worries the staff has about it, for example.

Rescue organizations are preferable for first-time cat adopters since they are more acquainted with their feline residents and can answer your queries better than shelter personnel. For example, if you’re interested in munchkin cats, you should check out these cats for adoption.

Make an Appointment for a Veterinary Exam

Since most shelters have a limited return policy, you must take your new pet to the vet immediately after adoption.

Your veterinarian will do a thorough evaluation of your pet’s health and recommend any necessary immunizations or exams in the future.

Rescue Cats and the Beauty of Becoming a Feline-Run Home

Bonding with your rescue cat is one of the most beautiful experiences in the world. But, to reach that point, you’ll want to do your research and due diligence in picking the right cat for you and your household. Hopefully, our guide has made it simpler to adopt the right rescue cat by applying these seven tips.

And, if you’re hungry for more treats, head straight to our pets and animals section for all of our additional tips and tricks.