If you are looking to add a four-legged family member to the mix, a cat can make a great option. When it comes to how to adopt a cat, Rescue Vets shares what to plan for during the adoption process. Our goal is to prepare potential owners, make sound matches between pets and potential families, and make the whole process as easy as possible.
Adopting a Cat from The Rescue Vets
First things first: take a look at our available pets and find a cat you’d be interested in adopting. When you find a cat you’d like to adopt, you can move forward with these steps:
Step 1: Application
Start the process of adopting a cat from The Rescue Vets by filling out our online application!
- Read our adoption process page, then check the box at the bottom of the page confirming that you’ve read all the fine print.
- Click the “Apply Now” button, which will open up an online application in a new browser window.
- Fill out the application, and make sure to click the “Submit” button to send us your adoption application!
Step 2: Meet and Greet
After your Rescue Vets adoption application has been approved, it’s time to visit your potential kitty to see if it’s the right fit. We’ll schedule a meet and greet with you at our shelter, and we ask that all members of your household come along for the meet and greet to interact with the cat you’re considering. We may also conduct a home visit if necessary, prior to finalizing any adoption.
Step 3: Sign the Adoption Contract and Bring Kitty Home!
If the adoption seems like the right decision, it will be time to make it official. An adoption contract will be signed, applicable fees will be paid, and then you’re ready to take your newest family member home! With the steps above, you may be wondering, how long does it take to adopt a cat? The timeframe can vary depending on how the application and meet-and-greet processes go. Necessary steps will need to be handled, such as contacting your references and processing your application. Rescues that require a home visit will also need to be scheduled and completed before you can bring a cat home. It’s important to remember, though, that these steps are put in place to help protect both animals and adopters.
How Long Does it Take to Adopt a Cat?
With the steps above, you may be wondering, “How long does it take to adopt a cat?” The timeframe can depend on the shelter you’re adopting from. Necessary steps will need to be handled, such as contacting references and processing your application. Rescues that require a home visit will also need to schedule and complete that process before you can bring a pet home. All in all, time can range between a couple of hours to a few days. It’s important to remember, though, that these steps are put in place to help protect both animals and adopters.
Should You Adopt a Cat?
When considering adopting a cat, you need to know more than how to adopt a cat; you need to know if it’s a good idea to begin with. While they’re adorable, cats require work, time, and money, just like any other pet. Take the following into account when deciding if a cat is the right pet for you:
- Time Commitment: While cats are generally more low-maintenance than dogs, they still need to be fed, have their litter boxes cleaned, be brushed, and played with. Some cats are more sociable than others and will want more of your time and attention, or could even benefit from another cat friend. It’s important to be realistic about the time you have when considering adopting a cat from a shelter.
- Space: Litter boxes take up space, and ideally, you should have one for each cat you have plus one extra. Cats also like vertical spaces, and furniture like cat trees or scratching posts can give them appropriate places to take out some of their natural urges.
- Environment: While you need to take a dog out, keeping a cat indoors will provide the safest environment for your pet. Keeping your cat indoors helps your pet avoid toxins, other animals, getting lost or otherwise injured.
- Budget: Cats can live for decades, and will require food, toys, litter, and veterinary care that whole time. Make sure to factor in their long-term needs into your regular budget.
- Future: As previously mentioned, cats can have a long lifespan. They could join you in college and be there while you raise your kids. Keep in mind any future desires or plans, and make sure a cat fits that vision.
Start the Adoption Process With Rescue Vets!
We strive to make adopting a cat from our shelter a joyful experience for you and your pet. From ensuring you’re paired with the right animal to giving tips on how to care for your cat, you’ll find a dedicated team here to help you at The Rescue Vets!