How to Adopt a Cat

Adopting a cat can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. Cats bring warmth, companionship, and a touch of mischief to your life. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or adding to your furry family, this guide will walk you through how to adopt a cat, including costs, timelines, and tips to make the process as smooth as possible.

How to Adopt a Cat

1. Assess Your Readiness

Before you begin, think about your lifestyle and whether it’s a good match for a cat. While many cats are independent they all still require daily care, love, and attention. Make sure you have time to feed, play with, and care for your new companion.

2. Choose the Right Adoption Option

You can adopt from local shelters, rescue organizations, or even through online pet adoption platforms. Each option often provides valuable information about the cat’s personality, health, and history, helping you find the perfect match.

3. Visit Shelters or Browse Online

Take the time to meet cats in person if possible. While shelter behaviour can offer clues about temperament, it’s important not to make snap judgements.

Many cats find shelter environments stressful which can make them seem shy, withdrawn, or even a bit feisty. Don’t overlook the ones hiding in the corner or the swatty ones who seem defensive – these behaviours often fade once they’re in the calm, loving atmosphere of a home.

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Patience and compassion go a long way in discovering a cat’s true nature. Online profiles are also detailed and often include photos, videos, and temperament notes.

4. Complete the Application Process

Shelters will require you to fill out an adoption application – sometimes this is done before making an appointment to meet their cats. Questions typically cover your living situation, previous pet experience, and how you plan to care for the cat. Be honest—this step is designed to ensure a good match.

5. Prepare Your Home

Before bringing your cat home, set up a safe space. Include essentials like a litter box, food and water bowls, scratching posts, and cozy bedding. This will help your new cat feel secure.

6. Transition and Settle In

Once your cat arrives, give them time to adjust. Start them in one room for at least 24 hours and gradually let them explore more of your home – they’ll let you know when they’re ready to see what’s on the other side of that first door. Patience is key as they settle into their new environment as change is scary for most cats. You know this is their new forever home, but it may take time for your cat to realize this too.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Cat?

The cost of adopting a cat varies depending on the adoption source and the cat’s needs. Typically, adoption fees range from $150 to $325^1,2 depending if it is a kitten, adult, or senior cat. These fees help the rescue or shelter recover some of the costs of caring for the cat before they're adopted.

Some shelters even have special programs for senior or medically-challenged cats whereby the adoption fee is waived, you provide a loving home for the cat, and the shelter covers all medical costs for the rest of the cat’s life.

The adoption fee also typically includes some services and supplies, including^1,3:

• Vaccinations

• Flea and parasite treatments

• Spay or neuter surgery

• Microchip implant

• Initial veterinarian examination

• Sample bag of food

• Pet insurance trial

Keep in mind that there are ongoing costs after you bring your cat home. Be sure to budget for food, toys, litter plus annual vet visits. Consider purchasing pet insurance or set aside money each month in a separate account so you can provide the necessary vet care your cat needs as it gets older.

How Long Does It Take to Adopt a Cat?

The timeline for adopting a cat can vary depending on the organization and the process:

1. Initial Research: Browsing cats online or visiting shelters can take a few days to a few weeks.

2. Application Review: Shelters rarely review applications on the spot and almost never do same-day adoptions. Be prepared to wait a few days to a week or so, to hear back after submitting your application⁴. Although you’re excited and anxious for a response, remember that most shelters are 100% run by volunteers and they’re doing their best to respond as quickly as possible.

3. Adoption Finalization: Once approved, you’ll book a time with the shelter to pick up the cat – typically within a week.

Tips for a Successful Adoption

• Be Patient: Cats have unique personalities, and it may take time to find the right match.

• Stay Committed: Remember, adoption is a lifelong commitment. Your cat will depend on you for care and love for years to come.

• Ask for Support: Most shelters and rescues are happy to offer advice and resources to help you and your cat adjust.

By following these steps and preparing thoughtfully, adopting a cat can be a joyful and life-changing experience. Whether it’s the soothing purrs or playful antics, your new feline friend will bring endless happiness to your home.