Learn how to adopt a cat in the USA with this 7-step guide! Discover the adoption process and some helpful tips to offer a home to a feline companion.
How Do You Adopt a Cat in the USA? Your 7-Step Guide
Whether you are alone, or living with a family, adopting a cat is one of most touching and worthwhile things that can be done in the USA. But first there are a number of steps that must be accomplished smoothly in order to help make this life change as non-traumatic as possible for all parties concerned-you, your dear ones, and your new kitty.
Welcoming a pet into your home means taking up a new responsibility – from the preparation steps of its adoption to its constant care and cohabitating conditions.
However, it doesn’t compare to the joy you’ll get saving an innocent soul destined to stay in the streets. Here, you will get all the information you may need on how to adopt a cat in the USA and some useful tips to make it feather-light. Let’s dive into the article!
Why Adopt a Cat?
Before we get into the meat of this tutorial, let’s explore the “why” before the “how”. Maybe you think you might adopt a stray cat, because your children are begging you to. Or perhaps you’re lonely and could use the companionship of a furry sidekick. Or maybe you have already adopted a dog and want to build your pet community because you are an animal lover after all.
Regardless of the reason, adopting a cat in the USA ensures a caring home for a creature that needs one, and a companion, stress reliever, and endless source of joy for you in return. Stray cats, especially, can be sweet, loving pets and show deep appreciation and love for their new families. And abandoned cats to have rather remarkable qualities as they tend to be quite resilient, and independent, often sharp witted, and capable of far more love than they ever had the opportunity to show you once you prove yourself worthy of their trust.
The Benefits of Adopting a Cat in the USA
Adopting a cat is not only about saving a poor soul’s life and experiencing the joy derived from caring for a furry friend. There are several other pros connected with this action, like:
- You have a wide range of cats to choose from.
- The personality of the cat is more or less known.
- The cat will be probably neutered, microchipped, up-to-date on vaccines, and examined by a vet.
- You help decrease the overpopulation of (stray) cats.
- The cost of adoption is way less than buying a newborn cat from scratch.
- Your health is benefited immensely – living with a cat lowers stress and depression levels, protects from heart and brain diseases, and improves kid’s resistance to asthma.
- You can make happier other, already existing pets in your house, happier.
- Cats in general, are known for absorbing any negative energy existing in your surroundings.
- You set a good example within your family and social circle.
As you can see, adopting a cat in the USA from a shelter or rescue has only good to offer – to you, your cohabitants, and society overall.
However, you have to do it properly. And this is where we come into the scene to help you with our inclusive 7-step guide for the cat adoption process in the USA.
Adopting a Male or Female Cat? Which One to Choose?
Adopting a cat is not an easy task, and one important decision is choosing between a male or female. And all the more so if it’s your first time. A few things to note:
Usually, male cats are bigger and more muscular compared with females. They are often more sociable and build a strong connection with their owner. And while unneutered males may exhibit territorial behaviors, such as spraying, neutering can significantly reduce these tendencies.
Female cats, on the other hand,are smaller in size and more delicate in build and tend to be more independent and reserved. They can still show affection but may prefer a quieter environment and when spayed they lose some behavioral issues.
Which One Should You Choose?
It will vary based on your own preferences and family dynamics. So if you want an active and curious companion, a male cat may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you are more in love with a pet that is more independent and less demanding, a female cat may be the perfect pet for you.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Adopting a Cat in the USA
So, make yourself comfortable, keep your cup of coffee close, grab a pen, and prepare your to-do list.
Image by Freepik
1. Determine If You’re Ready for a Cat
Before adopting, you first have to evaluate both your lifestyle and resources to ensure you can meet a cat’s needs.
Here are some things to consider:
· The Time Commitment
Cats, like all pets, require daily care, including feeding, grooming, and playtime. You won’t have to take them for a walk like dogs need but your presence and nurture should be an everyday task.
· The Financial Responsibility
An extra “family member” comes with costs. Factor in budgeting for food, litter, toys, vet visits, and potential emergencies. If you can’t or don’t want to take the cat with you on trips, you should also consider the fees of an animal hotel.
· The Living Arrangements
Although cats don’t need a lot of room to live, make sure your home is cat-friendly and your lease allows pets in case you’re renting.
2. Research Adoption Options
When the evaluation step is over, proceed to the exploration of the different places where you can adopt a cat. These can be:
- Animal Shelters: Shelters near you usually have lots of cats. Usually, the adoption fee is less, and it covers, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping.
- Rescue Groups: These groups also include the breed- or special-needs-specific rescues, which specialize in placing cats into homes or foster care.
- Online Platforms: For those who are web positive, sites such as like Petfinder and ASPCA let you find adoptable cats, based on location, breed, age and other factors.
3. Visit the Shelter or Rescue
Once you’ve identified a potential cat or fallen in love with one – it can happen, visit the shelter or foster home to meet them in person.
Some things to consider before proceeding to the adoption process:
- The Cat’s Temperament: Observe how the cat interacts with you and others. Can you feel the chemistry? Is the cat showing signs of hostility or extreme fear? Things like that can require more effort if you adopt them.
- The Cat’s Health: Look for signs of good health, such as a shiny coat, clear eyes, and alertness. Discuss with the shelter’s staff about their health and potential health issues.
- Your Compatibility: Ask about the cat’s history and behavior, and inform the foster parents about your needs and abilities. You may like a particular cat but another may be more compatible with you. Choose wisely.
4. Complete the Application Process
Having made your selection, the next step involves initiating the adoption process. So, how to adopt a cat in the USA?
Well, most adoption centers require you to fill out an application. This usually includes:
- Personal Information: Your contact details and living situation.
- Pet Experience: Any details about previous or current pets.
- References: Some shelters may ask you for personal or veterinary references.
- Home Visit: In some cases, a representative may visit your home to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for a cat.
5. Pay the Adoption Fee
Once you fill out the cat adoption application it’s time to pay the relevant fee. Adoption fees can range from $50 to $200, depending on the organization and the cat’s age, breed, or medical history.
These fees typically cover vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other initial veterinary care, that shelters and rescues have already paid for.
6. Prepare Your Home
Before bringing your cat home, make sure you have done the following things, to be prepared and make the whole transition smoother for all.
So, consider:
- Buying the Basic Supplies: Like food, water bowls, a litter box, litter, and a scratching post. A small toy or two can also come in handy.
- Creating a Safe Space: Set up a quiet area where your cat can acclimate. It’s also a good idea to remove any fragile or valuable things from their visual field.
- Secure Cat-Proofing: This includes removing potential hazards, such as toxic plants, dangling cords, and small objects that could be swallowed by them.
7. Bring Your Cat Home
Tata! Finally, the big moment arrives! Your home will never be the same again once your cat passes the doorstep. Your life neither.
So, when you bring your new cat home:
- Give Them Time: Allow your cat to explore at their own pace and be patient.
- Establish Routines and Boundaries: Feed and play with your cat at consistent times to instill trust and build your relationship. Train them to avoid specific behaviors and raise your voice when they cause a mess or any damage.
- Visit the Vet: Schedule a check-up within the first week to ensure your cat’s health, and keep a twice-a-year visit to the vet tempo.
- Love Them: Most importantly, love them. An adopted cat will feel it more deeply and be twice as grateful for it.
Helpful Tips for a Successful Adoption
How to adopt a cat in the USA? Now you have your guide, but some helpful tips will make the whole adoption process easier securing a successive outcome.
- Be Patient: Patience is a virtue. So, keep in mind that it may take days or weeks for your cat to feel comfortable and establish a bond.
- Engage in Play: Use toys to play with your cat and provide mental stimulation.
- Monitor Their Health: Keep an eye out for signs of illness and consult your vet if needed. Avoid feeding them with the food you eat. You can make some exceptions now and then but don’t make it a habit.
FAQs
What is the best age to adopt a cat?
That depends on your preference and lifestyle. Kittens are the cutest, being more playful and energetic but require more training and health monitoring.
Adult cats on the other hand tend to be calmer and already litter-trained.
How can I adopt a cat in the USA of a specific breed?
Well, you can address rescue groups that specialize in specific breeds. You can also search for breed-specific rescues online or on platforms like Petfinder.
Are there any requirements for adopting a cat?
Requirements often vary by shelter. The general rule though includes your identification details, pet history, references, and a stable living situation. Some shelters may even conduct home visits.
Can I return a cat if it doesn’t work out?
Most shelters have a return policy, allowing you to return the cat if it isn’t a good fit. However, they often encourage you to work through initial challenges and give it a second thought.
Key Takeaways
With this guide wondering how to adopt a cat in the USA ceases to be a quiz anymore. And it’s more than a process. In actual fact, it’s a rewarding voyage that enhances your life and the life of your new furry buddy. Knowing exactly which steps you need to take and keeping some practical advice in mind, you can rest assured that nothing will go wrong before, during or after the adoption process.
So, pick the cat that speaks to your soul, adopt it, and make a happy and harmonious start to your life together.
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