Adopting a cat can be a wonderful experience, especially when you give a home to an adult cat. While kittens are often the first choice for many people, adult cats can make just as loving and loyal companions. When you adopt an adult cat, you not only give them a second chance at a happy life, but you also reap the benefits of their maturity and personality.
One of the biggest benefits of adopting an adult cat is that they often come already trained. Unlike kittens, adult cats have already developed their litter box habits and are less likely to scratch furniture or other household items. In addition, adult cats may have already been spayed or neutered, which can save you time and money. Another advantage is that with an adult cat, you can get a better sense of their personality and temperament, which can help you choose a cat that fits well with your lifestyle.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind when adopting an adult cat. For example, it may take some time for your new cat to adjust to their new environment and bond with you. Additionally, adult cats may have existing medical or behavioural issues that require attention. Nonetheless, with patience and care, adopting an adult cat can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience for both you and your new furry friend.
Why Adopt an Adult Cat
If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, you might be considering a kitten. However, there are many benefits to adopting an adult cat instead. Here are a few reasons why adopting an adult cat might be the right choice for you.
Already Trained
Adult cats are often already litter box trained, which can save you a lot of time and effort. They also tend to be used to living in a home and may already be familiar with things like scratching posts and toys. This means you won’t have to go through the process of training a kitten, which can be time-consuming and frustrating.
Less Destructive
Kittens are notorious for being destructive. They love to play and explore, which often means scratching furniture and climbing curtains. Adult cats, on the other hand, have usually outgrown their destructive tendencies. They may still enjoy playing, but they are less likely to damage your home in the process.
Personality Traits
When you adopt an adult cat, you can often get a sense of their personality right away. Kittens are still developing their personalities, which means you won’t know what you’re getting until they grow up. With an adult cat, you can choose one that matches your lifestyle and personality. For example, if you want a lap cat, you can look for one that enjoys cuddling. If you want a more independent cat, you can look for one that likes to do their own thing.
Overall, adopting an adult cat can be a great choice for many people. They are often already trained, less destructive, and have well developed personalities. If you’re considering adopting a cat, be sure to check out the adult cats available at your local shelter or rescue organization.
Considerations Before Adoption
Before adopting an adult cat, there are a few considerations you should keep in mind. While adopting a cat can be a rewarding experience, it’s important to be aware of any potential health or behavioural issues that your new furry friend may have.
Health History
When adopting an adult cat, it’s important to know their health history. This can include any past medical conditions, surgeries, or vaccinations they have received. Be sure to ask the shelter or previous owner for a copy of their medical records.
Additionally, it’s important to schedule a visit with your veterinarian as soon as possible after adoption. This can help identify any potential health issues that may not have been disclosed by the shelter or previous owner.
Behavioural Issues
Adult cats may come with some behavioural issues that you should be aware of before adoption. Some cats may have litter box issues, while others may be shy or aggressive towards other animals or people.
It’s important to ask the shelter or previous owner about any known behavioural issues and how they have been addressed in the past. It may also be helpful to consult with a professional animal behaviorist to address any issues that may arise after adoption.
In summary, before adopting an adult cat, be sure to obtain their health history and consider any potential behavioural issues they may have. With proper care and attention, adopting an adult cat can be a wonderful and rewarding experience.
The Adoption Process
When you decide to adopt an adult cat, there are a few things to consider before starting the adoption process. In this section, we’ll cover some important factors to keep in mind when choosing the right cat and navigating adoption procedures.
Choosing the Right Cat
Before you start the adoption process, it’s important to take some time to think about what kind of cat would be the best fit for you and your lifestyle. Consider factors such as:
- Age: Do you want a kitten or an adult cat?
- Personality: Do you want a playful and energetic cat or a more relaxed and laid-back one?
- Activity level: Do you have a lot of time to devote to playing with and exercising your cat, or do you need a cat that is content to lounge around with you?
- Compatibility: Do you already have other pets in your home that your new cat will need to get along with?
By taking the time to think about these factors, you can narrow down your search and find a cat that will be a good fit for your home and lifestyle.
Adoption Procedures
Once you’ve decided on the type of cat you want to adopt, it’s time to start the adoption process. The specific procedures may vary depending on the organization you’re adopting from, but in general, the process will involve the following steps:
- Fill out an application: Most adoption organizations will require you to fill out an application that asks for basic information about you and your home. This helps the organization ensure that you’re a good fit for the cat you’re interested in adopting.
- Meet the cat: Once your application has been approved, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the cat you’re interested in adopting. This will give you a chance to see if you and the cat are a good match.
- Home visit: Some organizations may require a home visit to ensure that your home is a safe and suitable environment for the cat.
- Adoption fee: Adoption fees vary depending on the organization, but they typically cover the cost of vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other medical expenses.
By following these procedures, you can ensure that the adoption process goes smoothly and that you find the right cat for your home.
Post Adoption Care
After adopting your adult cat, it’s important to provide them with proper post adoption care to ensure they stay healthy and happy. This includes paying attention to their dietary needs and scheduling routine check ups with your veterinarian.
Dietary Needs
Adult cats have specific dietary needs that should be met to maintain their health. Make sure to provide your cat with high-quality, age appropriate food that is rich in protein and low in carbohydrates. Avoid feeding your cat table scraps or human food, as this can lead to obesity and other health issues.
It’s also important to provide your cat with fresh water at all times. Clean their water bowl regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Routine Check ups
Regular check ups with your veterinarian are crucial for your cat’s health. During these appointments, your vet will perform a physical exam, check for any underlying health issues, and update your cat’s vaccinations.
It’s recommended to schedule a check-up at least once a year. However, if you notice any changes in your cat’s behaviour or health, such as weight loss or lethargy, schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.
In addition to regular check ups, make sure to keep up with your cat’s dental care. Brush their teeth regularly and provide them with dental treats or toys to promote healthy teeth and gums.
By providing your adult cat with proper post adoption care, you can ensure they live a happy and healthy life with you.
Conclusion
Adopting an adult cat can be a wonderful experience for both you and your new furry friend. By choosing to adopt an adult cat, you are providing a loving and safe home for a cat that may have otherwise been overlooked.
As you have learned, there are many benefits to adopting an adult cat. They are often already trained, have established personalities, and are less destructive than kittens. Additionally, you can feel good about giving an adult cat a second chance at finding a forever home.
When considering adopting an adult cat, there are a few things to keep in mind. It is important to take the time to get to know the cat’s personality and history before making a decision. You should also be prepared for any potential health issues that may arise, as adult cats may have a higher risk of certain health problems.