Adoption is one of the most effective ways to reduce the number of homeless cats. By adopting a cat from a shelter or rescue group, you’re giving that cat a second chance at life. And, you’re making room for another homeless cat to be taken in and cared for.
There are millions of homeless cats in the United States. Each year, approximately 1.4 million cats are euthanized in shelters because there aren’t enough homes for them all. But, the good news is that more and more people are adopting cats instead of buying them from pet stores or breeders.
When you adopt a cat, you’re not only saving that cat’s life, but you’re also helping to reduce the number of homeless cats overall. So, if you’re thinking about adding a feline friend to your family, here are a few reasons to consider adoption first!
You’re giving the cat a second chance
When you adopt a cat from a shelter, you’re giving an abandoned or homeless animal a second chance at life. Pets in shelters are typically there through no fault of their own; they may have been surrendered by their previous owner due to financial reasons, allergies, divorce, or other life changes. Whatever the reason they ended up in the shelter, they deserve to be loved and cared for in a forever home.
Adopted cats are often already spayed or neutered
When you adopt a cat from a shelter or rescue organization, it will typically already be spayed or neutered. This is important for several reasons. First, it helps to control the pet population and prevent unwanted litter of kittens. Second, it can help your new cat adjust to their new home more easily since it won’t be feeling the urge to mate. Lastly, spayed and neutered cats tend to be less aggressive and spray less than those that haven’t had the procedure.
Clean bill of health
By adopting a cat from an animal shelter or rescue, you not only become the proud owner of your new furry family member, but you’ll also receive valuable insight into their health and well-being. Their current physical condition as well as any potential medical issues that could arise in the future can be discussed with staff, giving adopters peace of mind before bringing their beloved kitty home.
Litter box trained
One worry that many people have about adopting a cat is whether or not they will be litter box trained. The good news is that most shelter and rescue cats are already litter box trained. This is because they have typically been living in a shelter or rescue environment where they have had to use a litter box.
Adopted cats come with unknown histories
When you adopt a cat from a shelter or rescue, it will usually come with an unknown history. This can be both good and bad. The good thing is that you won’t have to worry about whether or not your cat has a history of aggression or violence. The bad thing is that you also won’t know if your cat has any medical conditions that could arise in the future.
Adopting From a shelter is more affordable
One of the biggest benefits of adopting a cat from a shelter or rescue is that it can be cheaper than purchasing a cat from a pet store. This is because shelters and rescues typically have lower adoption fees than pet stores. Additionally, many shelters and rescues include the cost of spaying or neutering in the adoption fee. So, not only will you be saving money by adopting, but you’ll also be helping to reduce the number of unwanted cats in shelters and rescues.
Final thoughts
There are many great reasons to consider adopting a cat from your local shelter instead of buying one from a pet store. Not only are you giving an animal in need of a home a chance at happiness, but you’re also saving money and helping to fight against kitten mills. So next time you’re looking for your new feline friend, make sure to visit your local shelter first!
