Adopting a rescue cat is an extremely rewarding thing to do. Not only will you gain a new feline friend you will also be providing a much-needed home for the animal that may have been the victim of cruelty. By adopting a rescue cat, you will also be supporting the charity and volunteers that help so many of these poor kitties.
Do find out as much as you can about your new pet's history. The shelter will, hopefully, be able to provide you with important information about the cat’s previous home. They may also know whether the cat was kept outdoors or indoors, about their health and whether they have been neutered or spayed. Often these cats are abandoned or are stray cats so information about their past will be unavailable. However, the centre should be able to provide you with general observations they have noted while the cat was in their care.
Do adopt a black cat. Black cats and kittens are often the last to be adopted due to the fact that their colourful friends are more popular. However, black cats are just as beautiful, interesting and affectionate as any other cat.
Do give a donation to the shelter. Some rescue centres do not ask for anything when you come to collect your cat. If this is the case, a donation, whether big or small, would be appreciated and will help provide care for other homeless animals.
Do buy the essential kit to welcome your new cat. Buy some toys, blankets or a bed, cat food, treats, litter tray and litter. It is also worth buying some medication for pet fleas and worming, just in case.
Don’t force your new cat out of hiding places. If your new cat arrives and runs straight under the sofa or bed, don’t force it out by moving the furniture. The cat will come out when it is ready and feels safe. You could try speaking gently to the cat to make it feel safe.
Do try and collect your cat at the weekend or take time off work. Coming from their temporary home to their new home will be a very scary experience for your new furry friend. Being there with them for the first couple of days will provide them with some comfort and will allow you and your family to bond with it.
Don’t make loud noises when your cat arrives. The cat will be very alarmed at being in unfamiliar territory so try your best to make their new environment calm and welcoming.
Do make a home garden for your new cat to enjoy until they are ready to venture outside.
Do prepare your young children for the cat’s arrival. Let your children know that your new family cat has had a hard background, and they need to be cared for. Avoid young children pulling at the cat’s tail or jumping on them as this can hurt and alarm them.
Don’t introduce your new cat to other pets too fast. If you have any other pets in your household, approach their meeting with your new cat in a careful manner. Try allowing them to spend a few minutes with each other in the same room and gradually increase their time together.
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