How Old Do You Have to Be to Adopt a Cat?

With so many homeless kitties out there, would-be pet owners are often surprised at the stringent requirements enforced by animal shelters. It's frustrating to get turned down when you want to help by bringing a lonely feline home, but keep in mind that these requirements exist to protect the animals.

  1. Age and Identification

    • While there are no laws forcing animal adoption centers to screen prospective pet parents, many shelters require you to be at least 18 years old. The Animal Humane Society, ASPCA and PAWS Chicago are among the many organizations that enforce this rule. You also need to prove your age and identity through photo identification, so make sure you bring a valid driver's license or state card with you. Some agencies also require you to prove your residence with a copy of recent utility bills or a similar document. It's a good idea to talk with a shelter representative to make sure you have all the things you need before heading out to adopt.

    Interview and Application

    • You don't have to put on a suit and tie, but expect to fill out an application and sit down for an interview before bringing your new pet home. Most adoption agencies require you to give detailed information about your living situation, including the status of your home, other pets and family or roommates. The application may even get a little personal, asking about your financial situation and daily schedule. Leaving questions blank can raise a red flag for the reviewer, so be as detailed as possible. If the shelter approves your application, expect to have a little chat with a shelter representative. They aren't trying to invade your privacy, but they do want to make sure their cats will be taken care of in their new home.

    Residence Requirements

    • The goal of the interview and application process is to ensure the cats are going to permanent homes. If you rent your home or apartment, the shelter will ask you to bring written or verbal approval from your landlord. Many shelters don't adopt cats out to be outdoor exterminators. While a low rodent population is a perk of cat ownership, they want kitties to go into homes, not sheds or barns. Some shelters have a separate space for semi-feral cats and may be willing to allow you to adopt one of these animals as an outdoor companion under certain conditions.

    Responsibilities of Pet Ownership

    • After looking through a three-page application, you may be scratching your head at the complexity of cat adoption. The rules and requirements aren't there to vex you, even though it may seem that way. Caring for a cat requires money for vet bills, food and toys. You also need to prove that you can provide a permanent and safe home for the kitty so that he doesn't end up back at the shelter in a few years. Taking an animal into your home is a big responsibility. If your application for adoption was refused, don't be afraid to try again when your circumstances have changed. There will always be plenty of great cats available for adoption.