What to Expect When Adopting a Shelter Cat

June is National Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, and there is no better time to open your heart and home to a feline companion. Whether you’re looking for a playful kitten or a loveable senior, adding a cat to your family is a rewarding journey. However, a successful adoption starts long before you sign the paperwork. To ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new arrival, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to feline adoption. 

Finding Your Purr-fect Match 

Not every cat will fit your lifestyle. Before visiting the shelter, consider the following: 

• Energy Levels: Kittens are adorable but require significant time and supervision. Adult or senior cats are often more laid-back and may be a better fit for a busy household. 

• Personality: Are you looking for a lap cat or a more independent spirit? Talk to shelter staff about the cat’s temperament. 

• Long-Haired vs. Short-Haired: Consider the grooming commitment. Long-haired cats require daily brushing to prevent painful matting. 

Questions to Ask the Shelter Before Adoption 

Shelter staff and volunteers often have great insights into their residents. Be sure to ask: 

• How does the cat react to other animals and children? 

• What is their known medical history? Vaccinations, spay/neuter status, any chronic conditions, etc. 

• For older cats, ask why they were surrendered, and if they have any specific dietary needs or established habits. 

• What brand of food have they been eating? Staying consistent initially helps prevent digestive upset. 

Prepping Your Home 

Before the Gotcha Day, prepare a designated safe space for your new friend—a quiet area like a spare bedroom or laundry room where the cat can decompress at their own pace for the first few days. 

• The Essentials: Set up a litter box, food and water bowls, and a sturdy scratching post. Tip: Keep food and water bowls separate, as some cats dislike eating near their water. 

• Safety Check: Remove toxic plants, secure loose wires, and ensure all window screens are tight and secure. 

• Vertical Space: Cats feel safest when they can get high up. Consider a cat tree or a cleared-off shelf. 

Introducing New Family Members 

Slow and steady wins the race. Never drop a new cat into a room with resident pets. 

• Scent Swapping: Rub a towel on the new cat and place it near your resident pet, and vice versa. This introduces them via smell before they ever see each other. 

• Visual Introduction: Use a baby gate or keep the new cat in their safe room while allowing the other pets to sniff under the door. 

• Supervised Interaction: Only allow face-to-face time once both animals seem calm and curious. 

The First Vet Visit 

Even if the shelter provides a clean bill of health, scheduling a wellness exam within the first week of adoption is vital. This visit allows us to establish a health baseline for your new pet, discuss a customized vaccination and parasite prevention schedule, and address any hidden issues, such as minor respiratory infections that are common in shelter environments. 

Tip: The best way to bring your cat to the vet is in a securely fastened, top-loading, hard-shell carrier that’s lined with a familiar blanket.  

Settling in With Your New Pet 

Remember, adoption is a big change for your new pet. Your cat may be overwhelmed, hiding, and eating less in those first few days. This is normal behavior, but it is also important that you’re aware of their demeanor. After a few weeks, your cat should begin to settle in, learn the routine, and show their personality. Then, after a few months, you’ll have a cat that feels comfortable, secure, and bonded with their new family and home.  

Monhagen Veterinary Hospital is Here to Help! 

Bringing home a shelter cat is a beautiful commitment, and we want to help you every step of the way. From that first check-up to lifelong wellness care, our team is ready to support your new family member. Call us today at (845) 342-1091 to schedule your new cat’s first wellness exam.