Getting A Cat From A Shelter

June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month! We consider every month to be Adopt A Shelter Cat Month. We’re pleased to see any cat find a nice home, no matter where they come from. However, many cats in shelters have serious struggles in finding new homes. If you’re thinking about getting a new cat, check out your local shelter! This article contains advice from a local Anderson, IN vet on how to find Fluffy.

How Do I Pick a Shelter Cat?

There is truly no right or wrong response here. Some folks have a list of what they’re looking for. You might want your next kitten to be of a specific age, breed, or color, and that is OK. Shelters have many kinds of cats, so whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find Fluffy eventually.

Of course, you could walk into a shelter with a mental list of what you’re looking for only to fall in love with a cat who appears to be the complete opposite. There is nothing wrong with that. It’s crucial that you keep an open mind. It’s always a beautiful moment when folks realize they’ve discovered their pet. There’s definitely a lot to be said for simply following your heart and choosing the kitty who makes you feel the most.

There are a few things to consider. If you have other pets, make sure you choose a feline who will get along with her furry housemates. A shy cat who has always lived alone may feel uncomfortable in a home with three other cats, two dogs, and a pet bird. A feline who forms strong attachments with other cats, on the other hand, may be lonely by herself. Most shelters are fairly good at analyzing the pets who come into their care, so you should be able to find out some of these details.

What Are The Benefits Of Adopting Shelter Cats?

There are several excellent reasons why going to a shelter is the best method to get Fluffy! Here are some of the main ones:

For one thing, you’ll be able to find Your purrfect pet. Shelters house kittens of all forms, sizes, and colors. You’re sure to find a good fit. Plus, you can meet your new feline friend before making a final decision. This might help confirm that you have chosen your ideal pet. (This is also the point at which many individuals realize they’ve definitely found their kitty.)

Saving money is another perk. Adopting from a shelter is definitely less expensive than going through a breeder or pet store.

Finally, you’ll also be helping other animals. This is one of the main reasons why going to a shelter is such a good idea. You’ll be doing your part to aid other homeless cats as well! For starters, the area your new cat leaves unfilled will soon be occupied by another adorable cat. Fluffy’s adoption fees will also benefit the shelter’s other furry wards.

Getting Ready For Fluffy

Moving to a new home is a major thing for cats. Fluffy’s new home may be wonderful, but the transition will be difficult for her. You’ll want to allow your pet time to adjust.

We recommend having everything ready in advance. You might want to go shopping before you find your feline friend. With dogs, you may need to wait a bit to determine Fido’s size. That isn’t an issue for cats. Even if you adopt a kitten, your tiny furball can use full-sized toys, beds, and furniture. You may need to buy Fluffy a kitten-sized litterbox, but they are usually pretty cheap. For kittens, avoid using clay or clumping litter.

Your shopping list should include a scratching post or board, a litterbox and litter, dishes, toys, beds, treats, catnip, and a carrier.

Consider your kitty’s age when shopping.  A kitten will enjoy a variety of interesting toys and activity centers, whilst older cats may prefer comfortable beds.

Food selection will be determined by your pet’s age and overall health. Ask your veterinarian for particular guidance.

Normally, we advocate making dietary adjustments gradually. However, shelters frequently have to feed whatever is on sale or donated, so Fluffy might not be eating any specific foods regularly.

If you have other pets, keep your cat’s belongings in a different area at first. This will provide Fluffy with a space to unwind and settle in.  If Fluffy is going to be the lone pet, choose a peaceful corner.

Bringing Fluffy Home

Gotcha Day is a significant milestone for both you and Fluffy. Don’t rush things! When you arrive home, put the carrier down and let your furry companion come out when she’s ready.

This is when your feline pal’s personality comes into play. While certain cats may instantly begin exploring their new territories, Others may run (literally) for the first hiding place they see. Fluffy may also stay put and emerge slowly.

If you have other pets of your own, take your time making introductions. This should ideally be done in phases over several days. Fluffy values first impressions very highly! Consult your veterinarian for detailed advice on this.

How Can I Keep My Shelter Cat Safe?

Our feline friends are pretty independent. They are also playful, meowing bundles of curiosity and mischief.

Petproofing is quite crucial. That involves addressing anything you don’t want your furball to eat or play with. The list includes small or pointy items, hazardous plants, poisons, and pharmaceuticals. Plastic bags, ties, ropes, and cords are all deadly. Ensure that your doors and windows close securely. Ask your veterinarian for advice on this.

One of the first things you should do is bring Fluffy to the veterinarian. Your feline pal will need a thorough nose-to-tail examination. Many shelter cats have already been fixed, but other places schedule this during the adoption process. Aside from that, you’ll need to get your pet up to date on vaccines and parasite prevention.

This is also an excellent time to obtain specialized information about caring for your kitty companion.

Aside from that, we just want to remind you to keep the new addition to your household safe and sound indoors. Kitties who are permitted to roam confront numerous major risks, including traffic, weather, chemicals, and predators. Also, Fluffy will be unfamiliar with her surroundings and may become disoriented. She could get lost! 

How Do I Bond With A Shelter Cat?

While some cats will instantly think you’re the finest thing ever and want to snuggle you all day, others will take their time warming up. The important thing is to be patient. You will need to earn her trust. That means she needs to be confident that you will not grab or hold her against her will. Avoid focusing too much attention on your pet. We know, that may be hard. However, pushing it may backfire and make her terrified of you.

Talk to your feline friend and offer toys, snacks, and catnip. Making your home secure and enjoyable for your pet will go a long way toward starting that engine. For example, you may put out some pet-safe plants for Fluffy to nibble on. The ASPCA has a fantastic list on their website here. Your feline companion will likely welcome some purrniture, such as a cat tower. Window seats are also quite popular among cats. Don’t worry! With time, love, and good TLC, you’ll have that motor going in no time.

Conclusion: With millions of cats admitted to shelters each year, adopting a kitty from a shelter is an excellent way to give one lucky feline another shot.

Schedule an Appointment at Your Anderson, IN Animal Clinic

Do you need to bring your cat in? Is Fluffy overdue for her exam? Contact us at your Anderson, IN pet hospital today!