Adopt a cat from a shelter
Animal shelters bear the consequences of reckless breeding practices, pet owners’ failure to spay and neuter their pets responsibly, and heartbreaking acts of neglect and abuse. Additionally, abandoned pets and strays are being taken in at a rate that often exceeds shelter capacity. Respectable animal shelters deserve our attention and financial support.
For a cat lover, it is beneficial to adopt a pet from a shelter. Shelters offer a wide range of pets for all kinds of people and families. While the animals receive adequate care at the shelter, nothing compares to the everyday comforts of a warm and loving home.
Adopting a cat from a shelter is the best possible way to provide the mutual satisfaction and love that both owner and pet deserve. In addition, cats in shelters have developed individuality that allows a person to more accurately choose one that will best suit their lifestyle. It’s tempting to want to start with a kitten. However, in addition to the unexpected inconvenience, housework, and energy of dealing with a kitten, there’s no guarantee that the best personality will suit your lifestyle or home situation. Contrary to your initial inclination, kittens are not the best choice for small children. A cat that is at least one year old offers the best chance of giving a young child a positive experience with their first pet. Mature cats are much easier to care for and more predictable in their behavior. The shelter staff is genuinely interested in helping you find the right cat for your personality, behavior and home situation and will help you make a wise decision and investment.
Adopting your cat from a shelter is also significantly more economical. Most shelter cats are mixed breeds, with no hereditary health problems often associated with certain full-breed cats. Shelter cats are usually spayed, neutered and vaccinated. Special discounts are often offered for spay or neuter programs if your cat is adopted at a young age. You can also adopt bonded cats or litter mates at a lower cost. This is often a very rewarding experience that improves the cats quality of life as well as the companionship they ultimately enjoy. The cost of adoption can vary. Some shelters ask approximately $100 per cat, but they can be significantly less. In addition to spaying and neutering, the adoption fee from a reputable shelter usually includes distemper vaccinations and testing for both feline AIDS and feline leukemia. The average cost of treating feline AIDS and leukemia is $45-$75 for each disease. Spaying or neutering can run a $45-$90 bill, and vaccinations typically cost $150-$300. Adopting a cat from a shelter not only alleviates the burden of overcrowding that many shelters experience, but is clearly the more cost-effective choice.
If one is insistent on a particular breed, the selection at the shelter includes almost every breed at one time or another. Additionally, there are many organizations that specialize in the rescue and adoption of specific breeds. Most can be found online or through a referral from your local shelter. The shelter staff and volunteers want the best for the cat and will work together to help you find the best possible match.
Shelters are especially needed during the spring and early fall seasons. These are the breeding seasons and shelters are usually overcrowded with kittens in need of homes. If you are an experienced cat owner capable of responsible kitten ownership and committed to the lifelong care of a cat with an uncertain personality and health, a kitten can be a very rewarding and enjoyable experience.
To find an adoption center in your area, check your phone book or contact a local veterinarian; or contact the Humane Association of the United States. Millions of non-adoptable cats are humanely euthanized each year in the United States. By bringing a feline companion into your home, you will save a life and make room for other cats to have a chance to live full lives in a supportive environment.
Remember: owning a pet is a lifelong commitment. Consider the long-term care and costs of the cat and be prepared to accept the difficult times as well as the unforgettable experiences and invaluable companionship your cat will bring back to you.
Finally, support local and national shelters, as well as the many organizations that provide much-needed services and ensure the humane treatment of our precious animal friends.
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