We Love Cats
Adopt, do not buy
10 Great Reasons to Adopt a Cat from a Shelter
If you’re considering bringing a feline companion into your home, and
wondering where to look, an animal shelter is a great option. There
are so many reasons to adopt from a shelter, but here are 10 of my
favorites.
1. YOU’LL SAVE MORE THAN ONE LIFE BY ADOPTING A CAT
According to the ASPCA, 3.2 million cats can be found in shelters
every year and of these, about 860,000 are euthanized annually.
Adopting a cat not only helps one of these many animals, looking for a
home, but also opens a space for shelters and rescue groups to take in
another cat.
2. IT MAKES GOOD FINANCIAL SENSE TO ADOPT A CAT
For a relatively low fee, you’ll take home a cat that is already
spayed or neutered, up-to-date on vaccines and microchipped. Many
shelters and rescues will also include extras in the adoption fee such
as a cat collar, a bag of food or pet insurance.
3. THE PERSONALITY OF AN ADOPTED CAT IS KNOWN
Cats in many shelters interact with their caretakers and volunteers
every day, and these people really get to know their personalities.
Particularly with adult cats, you can find a companion with the type
of temperament you’re looking for. You could find a playful, active
cat or a calmer feline who prefers cuddling and a quieter environment.
4. IT’S GOOD FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH TO ADOPT A CAT
According to Research Gate, owning a cat, or any pet you adopt from a
shelter, has been shown to have positive effects on humans’ ability to
cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Taking a cat
home from a shelter can improve your sense of happiness and general
well-being.
5. ADOPTING A CAT IS GREAT FOR YOUR HEART!
A recent study found that owning a cat may lead to a reduced risk of
death from cardiovascular disease and stroke2. This is an important
finding considering the AHA/ASA says, “Stroke is the number 3 cause of
death in women and number 4 cause of death in men.
6. CATS IMPROVE CHILDREN’S RESISTANCE TO ASTHMA
According to Clinical & Experimental Allergy, research has found that
early exposure to a cat in the home can actually reduce infants’
sensitization to the allergens cats produce3. As a result, kids have a
reduced chance of developing allergic diseases.
7. THERE’S A WIDE VARIETY OF CATS TO ADOPT
You can find any type of cat you want at a shelter, from kittens to
seniors, short-haired to long-haired, all sizes and colors. In fact,
if you’re looking for a specific breed, such as a Siamese, you can
contact cat-specific rescue groups to find your new friend.
8. A CAT CAN MAKE YOUR OTHER PETS HAPPY
If you have another cat, or a cat-friendly dog, bringing another cat
home from a shelter can help reduce feelings of loneliness during the
day when you’re out. Of course, you will want to ask the shelter to
help you “cat test” your dog, and if you have a cat, expect a period
of adjustment before the new and current cats feel comfortable
together.
9. CATS ARE PERFECT FOR APARTMENT DWELLERS
If you live in an apartment, condo or other small space, a cat can be
an excellent companion because cats don’t require lots of room or
daily walks like a dog. Cats are generally low maintenance and if you
provide them with toys (like cat trees and window rests for
enrichment), they make wonderful roommates.
10. CATS ARE EXCELLENT SENIOR COMPANIONS
Cats, particularly older, calmer cats, can provide loving
companionship to older adults. They’re easy to care for, and you can
find one at a shelter that matches your lifestyle with some helpful
advice from the shelter staff and volunteers.
These are just 10 reasons – there are many more!
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call
your veterinarian – they are your best resource to ensure the health
and well-being of your pets.
😻 List of Cats for adoption 😻
Created by Viktoriia Ushakova