Instructions
Investigate the rescue shelters in your local area. You can find them in the yellow pages, doing a search online using your town name in the search, or speak to a local veterinarian to find out where your local animal shelters and breed specific rescue shelters are.
Discuss with your family what kind of cat you would like to adopt. Kittens are the usual favorites, no matter the breed, but don't forget older cats. They can often be as playful as kittens, and they have lots of love to give to the right family.
Determine if you will keep the adopted cat indoors or if it will be allowed outside. Many cat shelters require that you declare your intentions about what the cat will be allowed to do. Some rescue shelters will not allow an adoption to go through if the cat will be allowed outside.
Visit with the cat you are interested in adopting. Cat rescue shelters often have a play room, or quiet room where families and their prospective cat can get to know each other. Sit quietly and let the cat come to you. Speak softly and don't force any interaction.
Watch for friendliness, or signs of fear or aggression in the cat. A friendly cat will come to you readily, purr, play with you or rub up against you. A cat that is afraid will cower in the corner, avoiding you. An aggressive cat may hiss, growl or scratch you.
Inquire about any health issues or history that you should know about, and if the cat can be with children or other animals.
Bring a cat carrier with you to the cat rescue shelter. Once you have had a successful visit, paid the fee and finished all of your paperwork, you can bring your new pet home safely in the carrier.
How to Adopt a Cat From a Rescue Shelter
Adopting a cat from a rescue shelter is a great way to find a new pet for your home. You can look at local animal shelters or at breed specific rescue shelters. Either way, the process is easy if you follow these simple guidelines for adopting a cat from a rescue shelter.