Each year during June is considered “kitten season,” and most of these adorable kitties end up in animal shelters. The American Humane celebrates June as Adopt-A-Cat Month to encourage people to adopt kittens and cats in animal shelters. Unfortunately, millions of cats are living in shelters right now. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has considerably decreased the foot traffic, funding, and supplies that covers have made it even harder to find these vulnerable cats their forever homes.
2021 is the 46th year of the American Humane’s “Adopt-A-Cat Month,” and they help you find all the resources you need to add a kitten or cat to your family. It is a sad statistic, but the reality is 70% of cats that go into American shelters are never adopted and are euthanized – according to the ASPCA, that equals 860,000 cats per year. Adopting a cat is saving a life.
Tips for Adopting a Cat
Two are better than one
Worried you won’t have enough time to provide your cat with social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity? Adopt two cats, and they will provide all that and more for each other! They are also less destructive and can share many of the supplies that you buy.
Will you click with your cat?
Shelters can help you find the right cat for you by helping you choose the kitty that is most likely to get along with your personality, high or low maintenance, and a cuddler or more of a loner-based cat your preferences.
Prep the household
Bringing home a pet comes with great responsibility, and educating yourself, and everyone in your household about their needs is essential. It is also necessary to prepare other animals in your home and any children for safe interactions with a cat. Here are some tips for getting your cats or dogs adjusted.
Prep your home for your new cat
If you are bringing home a kitten – see our previous blog post about a new kitten and everything you need to do. Make sure you cat-proof your home – especially for cords and wiring, plants that be dangerous if eaten, and any small items like coins, paper clips, or loose ribbons.
Find a vet before you go
Having a vet take your cat after the adoption is important – especially if they are a kitten. Ensure to save all medical records and proof of immunizations and boosters for the vet to keep on file.
Budget for a cat
Your cat will need a few supplies (especially if they are a kitten) before you bring them home, as well as booster shots and possible medical supplies – here is a complete list of everything your cat may need
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