The Step-by-Step Guide to Adopting a Cat in the USA

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: 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. Image by Wirestock, Freepik 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: 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: 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: 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