Requirements to Adopt a Cat or Kitten
Cats and kittens make wonderful pets, providing companionship, showing your children how to care for animals, and help you save a life. However, there are also some requirements that many animal shelters have before you can adopt a cat from their facility.
Fill Out Application and Have a Cooling-Off Period
The first step to adopting a cat, after you have chosen it from the shelter, is to fill out the application. Be truthful on the application, even if you have never owned a cat before. After turning it in, the shelter will take about a day or so to process it. During this time, they refer to it as cooling off. It ensures you have thought about it and are still serious about adopting a cat. They don't want anyone to rush into the choice, then later regret it and have to return the cat to the shelter. The cooling off period helps prevent that. Be honest with them if you have decided now is not a good time.
You Must Be Able to Keep the Cat Indoors
Another requirement for many shelters is that you are adopting a cat or kitten that will be kept indoors. Many of them do not allow people to adopt pets that will be outside pets. If you don't want a cat in your house, you should not adopt one. It is not safe for cats to be outside at all times due to the various dangers, especially at night when certain wild animals come out. You may also need to show that your property is safe for a cat to roam when they do go outdoors.
You Need to Have a Stable Environment
The shelter may also ask you where you live and how long you have lived there. They need to know this is a stable, long-term home, and not a temporary situation. They don't want the cat to be stressed by someone who is constantly moving around. You should be in your home at least a few months, and have no plans on moving soon. You also want to show that your landlord allows the adoption if you are a renter so you don't end up having to bring the cat back to the shelter.
The Shelter Might Prohibit Adoptions With Young Children or Other Pets
While cats and kittens often get along with young children, the age of your children might determine whether or not you are eligible for a cat adoption. Some shelters have rules about children under a certain age and having a cat in the home. They might also ask what other pets you have to ensure the cat will be safe and happy in your home.
Contact you local animal shelter for more information about cat adoption.