June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month! Of course, we consider every month to be Adopt A Shelter Cat Month. We’re pleased to see any kitty find a loving home, no matter where they come from. However, many cats in shelters have a very hard time finding new homes. If you’re considering getting a new feline buddy, check out your local shelter! This article contains advice from a local Gaithersburg, MD vet on adopting Fluffy.

How Do I Choose a Shelter Cat?

There are no right or wrong answers here. Some folks have a list of what they’re looking for. You might want your next kitten to be of a specific age, breed, or color, and that is purrfectly OK. Shelters have many kinds of kitties. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find Fluffy eventually.

There is also much to be said for simply following your heart and picking the feline that stirs your emotions the most. Although you may enter a shelter with a mental list of what you want, you may find yourself falling in love with a furball that appears to be the complete opposite of what you had in mind. There is nothing wrong with that. It’s always a lovely moment when folks realize they’ve discovered their pet. 

There are several things to keep in mind, though. If you have other pets, choose a feline who will get along with her furry housemates. A shy cat who has always lived alone may feel uncomfortable in a home with three other felines, two puppies, and a parrot. On the other hand, a feline who bonds well with other cats may feel lonely on her own. Most shelters are fairly good at analyzing the pets who come into their care, so you should be able to find out some of these details about Fluffy’s purrsonality.

What Are the Advantages of Adopting a Shelter Cat?

There are great reasons why getting Fluffy from a shelter is the best thing to do. Here are some of the main ones:

For one thing, it’s a great way to find your perfect pet. Shelters house kittens of all forms, sizes, and colors. You’re sure to find a good fit. You also get to spend time with your new buddy. Most of the time, you can meet Fluffy before making a final decision.  (This is also the point at which many individuals realize they’ve discovered their cat.)

Saving money is another benefit. Adopting from a shelter is definitely less expensive than going through a breeder or pet store!

Last but not least, you’ll be helping other animals: This is one of the main reasons why going through a shelter is such a good idea. The spot your new cat leaves will soon be occupied by another adorable cat. Fluffy’s adoption fees will also benefit the shelter’s other furry wards.

How Can I Help a Shelter Cat Feel at Home?

Moving to a new home is a major thing for cats. Fluffy’s new home may be wonderful, but the transition will be difficult for her. You’ll want to allow your pet time to adjust.

We recommend having everything ready in advance. You might want to go shopping before you find your kitty. When it comes to dogs, you may need to wait to determine Fido’s size. That isn’t an issue for cats. Even if you adopt a kitten, your little one will be able to use full-sized toys, beds, and furniture. You may need to pick up a kitten litterbox for little Fluffy, but they are rather inexpensive.

Your shopping list should include the following items:

• Scratching post or board
• Dishes
• Toys
• Beds
• Treats
• Catnip 
• Carrier

Consider your feline buddy’s age when shopping. A kitten will enjoy a variety of interesting toys and activity centers, whilst a senior may prefer comfortable beds.

Your pet’s age and overall health will play a role when it comes to choosing food. Ask your Gaithersburg, MD veterinarian for specific guidance.

Normally, we advocate making adjustments gradually. However, shelters frequently have to feed whatever is on sale or donated, so Fluffy may not be eating any specific brands regularly.

If you have other pets, keep your cat’s belongings in a different area at first. This will provide Fluffy with a space to unwind and settle. If Fluffy is going to be the lone pet, choose a peaceful corner.

Gotcha Day is very exciting, and is a significant milestone for both you and Fluffy. Don’t rush things! When you arrive home, allow your feline friend to emerge from her carrier at her own pace.

This is when your kitty’s personality comes into play. Some felines may instantly begin exploring their new territories. Others may run (literally) for the first hiding place they see, or they may stay put and emerge slowly.

Don’t force attention on your furball. That may backfire and make her afraid of you.

If you have other pets, take your time making introductions. This should ideally be done in phases over several days. Fluffy takes first impressions very seriously! Consult your veterinarian for detailed advice on this.

How Do I Bond With A Shelter Cat?

While some kitties will instantly think you’re the most wonderful thing ever and want to snuggle you all day, others will take their time warming up. The important thing is to be patient. Don’t force attention on your feline pal. You will need to earn her trust. That means Fluffy needs to be confident that you will not grab or hold her against her will.

Talk to your kitty companion and offer toys, snacks, and catnip. Making your home secure and enjoyable for your pet will help get that engine started. For example, you may put out some pet-safe plants for Fluffy to nibble on. The ASPCA has a fantastic list on their website here. Your feline companion will likely welcome some purrniture, such as a cat tower. Window seats are also quite popular among cats.

How Can I Keep A Shelter Kitty Healthy?

Going to the vet with Fluffy is one of the first things you should do. Your feline pal will need a thorough nose-to-tail examination. Many shelter cats have already been fixed, but other places schedule this during the adoption process. Aside from that, you’ll need to get your pet up to date on vaccines and parasite prevention. Our Vet Wellness and Pet Vaccinations services are designed to give your new feline friend the best start in their new home. We offer comprehensive check-ups, necessary vaccinations, and personalized health plans to ensure your cat stays healthy and happy.

This is also an excellent time to get specialized info about caring for your feline companion.

How Can I Keep My New Shelter Cat Safe?

Our feline friends are pretty independent. They are also adorable, meowing bundles of curiosity and mischief.

Petproofing is quite crucial. That involves addressing anything you don’t want your furry friend  to eat or play with. The list includes small or pointy items, hazardous plants, poisons, and pharmaceuticals. Plastic bags, ties, ropes, and cords are all deadly. Ensure that your doors and windows close securely. Ask your Gaithersburg, MD veterinarian for advice on this.

Aside from that, we just want to remind you to keep your new pet safe and sound indoors. Kitties who are permitted to roam face numerous threats, including traffic, weather, chemicals, and predators. Furthermore, Fluffy will be unfamiliar with her surroundings and may become disoriented. She could easily get lost! While we’re on the topic of pet safety, if you have both cats and dogs, you might also be interested in our article about Pool Safety For Pups. It’s important to ensure all your pets are safe in and around your home.

Conclusion: With millions of cats admitted to shelters each year, adopting a kitty from a shelter is a wonderful way to give one lucky feline another shot.

Schedule an Appointment at Your Gaithersburg, MD Animal Clinic

Do you need to bring your cat in? Is Fluffy overdue for her exam? Contact your Gaithersburg, MD pet hospital today!