7 Reasons You Should Adopt a Shelter Cat

Photo featuring three new rescue kittens from the Lady Luck Animal Rescue!

It's Adopt a Shelter Pet Day! We want to do our part and help bring awareness to the thousands of cats that are waiting for (and needing) adoption from the shelters! Adopt, Don't Shop!

If you are thinking of opening your home to a new feline friend, consider going to your local shelters or rescue first. It's hard to narrow it down to just 7 reasons why adopting is a wonderful idea, but if we were to extoll on the benefits of adopting an animal, we'd be here all day!

While adoptions have been higher thanks to the pandemic in 2020, shelters are still being inundated with kittens and cats in need. Especially being in the midst of kitten season, shelters are flooded with homeless cats in search of their forever home.  They have just as much love to give!  Here are seven reasons you should consider adopting a shelter cat! 

1. You're saving a life.

According to the ASPCA, 3.2 million cats can be found in shelters every year and of these, hundreds of thousands of them are euthanized. When you adopt, you not only give a loving animal a second chance at their happily ever after, but you also open a space for shelters and rescue groups to take in and rescue another cat 

2. It's economical and helps break the cycle of pet overpopulation.

For a relatively low fee, you’ll take home a cat that is already spayed or neutered, up-to-date on vaccines and microchipped. Many shelters and rescues will also include extras in the adoption fee such as a cat collar, a bag of food or pet insurance. 

Depending on the animal, you may also save on housebreaking and training expenses  - especially when it comes to cats!

3. There are fewer unknowns.

When it comes to adopting a shelter cat, you'll tend to know a lot more about their personality thanks to their caretakers and volunteers spending time with them every day. Especially with adult cats, you can find a cat with the type of temperament you're looking for. Whether you prefer a more active, playful cat or a more reserved kitty who prefers a calmer environment for lots of cuddling, a shelter can help find you the purrfect companion.

4. Adult cats tend to be more low maintenance.

While kittens are tons of fun, they also require a lot of work! If you have a busy schedule but still want a companion to share your home with, an older cat might be a better fit. Adult and senior cats already know how things work: they're litter box trained, they've learned their manners, and you know what you're in for. While more independent and mature, adult cats still need just as much TLC as kittens!

5. You can help bust myths.

Surprisingly, there are a lot of myths surrounding many adult cats in shelters. Some people believed they're "damaged goods" who might be feral, or broken in some way. The truth is the vast majority of animals that end up in the shelter is that they're healthy and well-adjusted, often surrendered by their previous owners. They just need to find the right homes to truly flourish. 

When you adopt a shelter kitty, you can encourage others to do the same and discuss your positive experiences to help debunk some adoption myths. 

6. They're good for your mental health. 

Studies have shown that owning a cat (or any pet) has been shown to positively affect a person's ability to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Cats are purrfect companions for people who might not have the energy or physical ability to care for a dog, but still want a furry friend to keep them company. 

7. You get the pick of the litter (literally!)

Shelter cats come in all shapes, sizes, colors, personalities, and breeds. You have a wider variety of cats to choose from to help ensure you find the best fit for you! You can find a pet that matches your personality and lifestyle.

If you're interested in a specific breed of cat, like a Maine Coon or Siamese, many purebred cats actually end up at shelters. There are even certain rescues that specialize in rescuing cats of certain breeds. 

Interested in adopting a cat? Check out your local shelters or rescues. Or come visit our friends at the Good Luck Cat Cafe in Wilton Manors, Florida!