Getting A Cat From A Shelter

June is Adopt A Shelter Cat Month! Of course, every month is Adopt A Shelter Cat Month in our book. We’re happy to see any kitty find a good home, regardless of where it came from. Unfortunately, a lot of cats in shelters have a very hard time finding new homes. If you’re thinking about obtaining a new cat, visit your local shelter! This post includes tips from a local  Ada, MI veterinarian on how to find Fluffy.

What Are the Benefits of Adopting a Shelter Cat?

There are several compelling reasons why going to a shelter is the best way to find Fluffy!

For starters, you’ll be able to find the perfect pet. Shelters hold kittens of various shapes, sizes, and colors. You’re sure to find a kitty that is a good fit. You will also have the opportunity to get to know your potential feline companion before making a final choice. This may help you confirm that you’ve found your ideal pet. (This is also when many kitties start wrapping their humans around their paws.)

Another benefit is saving money. Adopting from a rescue is much cheaper than buying a pet from a breeder or pet store.

Finally, you will be assisting other creatures. This is one of the primary reasons why visiting a shelter is such a fantastic decision. You will be helping other homeless kitties as well! For starters, the space your new cat vacated will soon be replaced by another gorgeous cat. Fluffy’s adoption fees will help the shelter’s other furry wards.

How Do I Choose A Shelter Cat?

There is simply no correct or incorrect response here. Some people have a list of things they want, and that is fine. Of course, you may walk into a shelter with a mental list of what you’re looking for and fall in love with a cat who appears to be the polar opposite. There is nothing wrong with that. There’s a lot to be said for simply following your heart.

There are several factors to consider. If you already have other animals in your home, you ought to pick a feline that will get along well with them. A shy cat who has always lived alone may feel uneasy in an environment with three other cats, two dogs, and a pet bird. A feline who builds strong ties with other cats, on the other hand, may feel lonely on her own. Most shelters are fairly good at analyzing the pets that come into their care, so you should be able to learn some of this information.

Getting Ready for Fluffy

Moving is a big deal for cats. Fluffy’s new home may be great, but the adjustment will be challenging for her. Allow your pet time to adjust.

We recommend that you have everything ready in advance. You might want to shop before finding your cat. With dogs, you may need to wait a while until you determine Fido’s size. This is not an issue for cats. Even if you adopt a kitten, your tiny ball of fur can use full-sized toys, beds, and furniture. You may need to buy Fluffy a kitten-sized litterbox, but they are usually inexpensive. (Note: Avoid using clay or clumping litter with kittens. Baby cats are clumsy, and may accidentally ingest the litter, which is very dangerous.)

Your shopping list should include a scratching post or board, bowls, toys, beds, snacks, catnip, a litterbox and litter, and a carrier. When shopping for Fluffy, keep his or her age in mind. A kitten will appreciate exciting toys and activity centers, whilst senior kitties may prefer cozy beds.

Your pet’s age and overall health should come into play when it comes to choosing food. Normally, we recommend making dietary changes gradually. However, shelters usually have to feed whatever is available for sale or donation, so Fluffy may not be eating any specific food on a regular basis. Ask your veterinarian for specific advice.

If you have other pets, keep your cat’s stuff in a separate location at first. This will give Fluffy some space to relax and settle in. If Fluffy is going to be the only pet, find a quiet spot.

Bringing Fluffy Home Gotcha Day marks a big milestone for you and Fluffy. Don’t rush anything! When you get home, set the carrier down. Just let your feline companion out when she’s ready.

This is where your cat’s personality comes into play.  Fluffy may also stay put and emerge gradually. Or, she may immediately begin investigating her new surroundings.

If you have other pets, be patient about introductions. Ideally, this should be accomplished in stages over the course of several days. Fluffy values initial impressions extremely much! Consult your veterinarian for more information on this.

How Do I Keep My Shelter Cat Safe?

Our feline pals are quite independent. They are also playful, meowing bundles of mischief.

Petproofing is vital. That includes addressing anything you do not want Fluffy to eat or play with. Small or sharp things, hazardous plants, poisons, and medications are all on the list. Plastic bags, ties, ropes, and cords are all dangerous as well. Also, make sure your doors and windows close securely. Consult your veterinarian for advice on this.

Speaking of vets, taking Fluffy to the vet is one of the first things you ought to do. Your feline companion will require a thorough nose-to-tail checkup. Many shelter cats have already been fixed, while other facilities schedule this during the adoption process. If your kitty hasn’t been fixed yet, you’ll want to see to that right away. Microchipping is also important. Aside from that, you’ll need to update your pet’s immunizations and parasite prevention. Don’t be shy about asking questions! This is also an ideal time to learn specialized information on caring for your feline companion.

Aside from that, we’d want to remind you to keep the new addition to your family safe and sound inside. Kitties that are allowed to wander face various serious threats, including traffic, weather, chemicals, and predators. Fluffy may also feel disoriented in an unfamiliar environment, and could get lost.

Bonding With Your New Cat

While some cats will immediately think you’re the best thing ever and want to snuggle with you all day every day, others will take their time warming up. The crucial thing is to remain patient. You will have to earn your kitty’s trust. Fluffy needs to be confident that you won’t grab or hold her against her will. Avoid forcing attention on your pet. We understand that this may be difficult. However, pressing it may backfire, making her fearful of you. Let your furry pal decide when cuddle time starts and stops.

Talk to your cat and offer toys, treats, and catnip. Making your home safe and enjoyable for your furry friend will go a long way toward igniting the engine. For example, you could put out some pet-friendly plants for Fluffy to chew on. The ASPCA has an excellent list here. Your feline companion will probably appreciate some purrniture, such as a cat tower. Window seats are very popular with cats. Do not worry! With time, love, and proper care, you’ll get that motor running in no time!

Make an Appointment at Your Ada, MI Animal Clinic

Do you need to bring your furry friend in? Is Fluffy overdue for her exam? Please contact us at your Ada, MI pet hospital now!