Summer, specifically the month of June, is known as kitten season. While this may sound extremely cute and cuddly, many animal shelters face challenges during this time due to an increased number of cats in need of furever homes. If you aren't already familiar with kitten season, it is the time of year many cats end up in the care of shelters like the ASPCA because most kittens are born in the summer. Therefore, the month of June has been dubbed adopt a (shelter) cat month. So, if you or anyone you know is looking for a new furry friend, now is a great time to consider adopting a shelter cat.
How to Adopt During Adopt a Shelter Cat Month
Deciding to adopt a cat is exciting! If you are considering adopting, you likely have already thought about how a cat would fit into your lifestyle. Simply wanting a cat is not the only factor that determines if having a cat in your life is for you. There are lots of things to take into consideration before adopting a cat. Here’s what you should know:
Your needs
Ensure no one in your household has allergies and that everyone you live with is cat-friendly. You want to do your due diligence before adopting a cat. Adopting and then having to give up a pet is extremely hard on both the owner and the animal.
The size of your home
Visualize your home and where the cat's amenities, such as their litter box, would go. Is your current home sizable to allow enough room for your furry friend to roam around?
The amount of time you have
Think about how often you are home. As restrictions start to get lifted and society begins to exit lockdown, will you give your cat the companionship it needs? Depending on your situation, you could consider getting two cats to mitigate pet loneliness.
The age of cat
Not all cats are the same! Look at why you want a cat to help you decide if a kitten or adult feline would be better suited for your lifestyle. While kittens are cute and playful, they require a lot of attention and have endless energy! Adult cats aren't as needy and can be better with kids!
The cost
Kittens may be on the smaller side in terms of pets, but they still take a big chunk out of your wallet. On average, cats cost around $1,000 a year, so make sure you are prepared and able to afford one.
What are the steps to adopting a cat?
After you've done some preliminary research and have decided if adopting a cat is right for you, here is how you can go about adopting your new feline friend.
1.Prepare
Ask yourself if you have any specific cat needs. For example, will you require a hypoallergenic or no-shed animal? Do you have other animals in your home to consider? Understand your needs while looking, so you know what questions to ask the shelter.
2.Research
Nowadays, most shelters have an online database of the animals available at their location, or you can go in person. Many people prefer the in-person approach so you can meet the cats face-to-face. Nevertheless, taking a preliminary look online definitely won't hurt.
3.Apply for a Cat
Sometimes shelters may have a waiting list for adoptions, in which case getting on the list ASAP can ensure a sooner adoption date. If there isn’t a waiting list, then filling out an application is the next step!
4.Adoption Approval
Now it's time for the good stuff! The shelter should get back to you reasonably quickly with either a waitlist confirmation, clarification questions, or approval! This is exciting, but you still have a few more steps to get done before the cat comes home.
5.Set Up a Vet Appointment for Your Cat
After being in the shelter, a vet may need to check for diseases or other issues such as fleas and infections. This step is critical, especially if you have other pets at home.
6.Preparing Your Home
Depending on the age, health, and breed of cat, you may have some to adjust the current set-up of your home. Kittens, for example, are often best acclimated to a home by first living in a small room, then slowly transitioning them into a larger space. So start to feng shui your home and collect the necessary supplies you need to create a comfortable space for your cat.
7.Show Your New Cat Love
Now that you are all set to bring your new cat home, show them the love they deserve. No matter how nice the shelter may be, it is nothing compared to having a loving, caring family to live with permanently. Be sure to spend quality time bonding with your new best friend.
Prepare for Adopting a Cat with Open Farm
Now that you have your little feline, it's time to start treating them like the king or queen they are! Open Farm's Dry Cat Food, Rustic Blends and Cat Kefir, will do just that! Packed with all the nutrients and wholesome ingredients your new buddy needs!
