Hi I'm Caitlin Lewis, community outreach manager for the Humane
Society of Greater Dayton.
Wanting to adopt a cat or kitten, but not sure where to
start or what to expect?
Well we're here to talk about everything you need to think about and
do before, during, and after a cat adoption in order to have a great
experience for you, and to provide a great home for your new pet.
Research is a vital part of pet adoption, so we encourage prospective
adopters to make several visits to their local animal organizations
during the process.
Utilize their websites so you can clearly understand the needs of your
prospective pet before making this important decision.
Before heading to the shelter, you'll want to identify which cat breed would
best fit your lifestyle.
Fewer than 10% of the world's cats, both in and out of
shelters, are pure bred.
The majority, common house cats, have charmed their way into becoming the
number one most popular pet in the United States.
Before heading to the shelter, there are a couple of final considerations
for you and your family.
If yours is a full time working household, it is recommended that you
pass up kittens and adolescents, cats less than 18 months old, in favor of a
more low key adult who's energy needs will be easier to meet.
If you're a novice cat owner, think twice about excessive cats.
Excessively shy, aggressive, or demanding, for they may provide too
great of a challenge for your first experience.
Is coat color or pattern important?
By all means choose a cat who attracts you, but remember that the gorgeous
Calico hiding at the back of her cage may well go into prolonged hiding once
she is released into your home.
A cat that is social and relaxed at the shelter usually has the ease to
meet the stresses that life throws her way.
Consider the whole cat, not just one element.
Your best bet is the friendly, outgoing cat who offers an
outstretched paw through the cage bars, and who nuzzles and purrs when
you hold him in your arms.
This profile is a particularly good choice for
families with young children.
A cat in your life can add warmth, humor, and peace of mind.
A cat can teach your child empathy for others while keeping her secrets.
If you can make the commitment, a cat is waiting to enhance your life in
ways only a kindred spirit can.
Loving pets of all shapes and sizes are waiting in animal shelters, hoping
to find a permanent home.
But there are many misconceptions about shelter pets.
Shelter animals can make wonderful lifelong companions if
only given the chance.
People often think shelters contain only the rejects, pets that have a
health or behavior problem.
This is not true.
Shelters are filled with animals that have been surrendered by their owners
because of divorce, owner illness, allergies, new babies, and
inexperienced owners.
Most shelter pets would like nothing more than a chance at a happy life and
their own family to share it with.
There are so many reasons for adopting from a shelter.
Shelters have all types of patents.
Mixed breeds, pure breeds, young and old.
Regardless of the shape, size or breed, most shelter pets are vet
checked, healthy, and ready for their new homes.
And they'll likely save you money too.
Adoption fees for shelter pets are typically less expensive than those
you would find at a pet store or a breeder.
Initial vet checks, vaccines, deworming, and spay or neuter surgery
is already included as part of the cost.
You also get literature on caring for your new cat or kitten, plus support
and guidance from shelter staff if you have questions.
Pet adoption is an exciting, but also time consuming process.
It's always best to call ahead to the animal shelter and find out what
documents you need to bring with you.
Typical items include picture identification with
your current address.
If you're renting, bring your lease or a letter from your landlord.
It must state that you are permitted to have pets, and how many.
Your landlord's contact information should also be displayed.
If you own your home, you might be requested to
provide proof of ownership.
References.
Have a list of references handy, including their phone numbers, and ask
them for permission before using them as a reference.
If you've had pets before, including a veterinary reference is a good idea.
Cash, debit card, or credit card for paying the adoption fee.
Smaller shelters or rescue organizations sometimes don't accept
credit cards.
Ask before if you're unsure.
Everyone in your family.
Many shelters require that every person in your household meet the pet
you may be adopting.
This is to ensure that everyone gets along and agrees to the adoption.
Once you've introduced a new cat to the family, you want to make sure they
feel at home as quickly as possible.
A cat's ideal refuge is a place where they can go and be with their things.
A soft bed, food and water, a scratching post, and plenty of toys.
Their area should be away from the rest of the house and out of the line
of traffic.
Finding just the right cat or kitten for you or your family is a rewarding
experience.
When that is coupled with bringing them home from a shelter, it is a
double reward.
By doing your homework, and with the little patience, you'll have her home
in no time.
Let's recap.
Do your research.
Identify what type of cat would suit your family and lifestyle.
Consider adopting from a shelter.
And lastly, find out what you'll need to bring to the shelter.
On behalf of Iams, I'm Caitlin Lewis for Howdini.
For more information and offers, check out the website.
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Have you adapted a sheltered pet?
Be sure to share your story below in the comment section.