Are you considering getting a new kitty? If so, please consider going to find Fluffy in a shelter. This is a great way to find your new feline friend! A local Towns County, GA vet offers some advice on adopting Fluffy from a shelter in this article.
How Do I Choose a Shelter Cat?
There is truly no right or wrong response here. Some folks have a list of what they’re looking for. You may want your next kitty to be of a specific age, breed, or color. That’s purrfectly fine! Shelters have many kinds of cats, so whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find Fluffy eventually.
Of course, you could walk into a shelter with a mental list of what you’re looking for only to fall in love with a cat who appears to be the complete opposite. There is nothing wrong with that, either! There’s definitely a lot to be said for simply following your heart.
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 cats, two dogs, 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 what type of home a particular kitty is best suited for.
What Are the Advantages of Adopting a Shelter Cat?
There are several excellent reasons why going to a shelter is the best method to get Fluffy! Here are some of the main ones:
- Find Your Purrfect Pet: Shelters house kittens of all forms, sizes, and colors. You’re sure to find a good fit!
- Spend Time With Your New Buddy: Most of the time, you can meet Fluffy before making a final decision. This might help confirm that you have chosen the correct pet. (This is also the point at which many individuals realize they’ve discovered their cat.)
- Save Money: Adopting from a shelter is definitely less expensive than going through a breeder or pet store.
- Help Other Animals: This is one of the main reasons why going through a shelter is such a good idea. You will also be assisting other homeless cats! For starters, the area your new cat leaves unfilled 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 choose your cat.
Your shopping list should include the following items:
- Litterbox
- Litter (Note: for kittens, avoid using clay or clumping litter.)
- Scratching post or board.
- Dishes
- Toys
- Bed
- Treats
- Catnip
- Carrier
Consider your kitty’s age when shopping. A kitten will enjoy a variety of interesting toys and activity centers, whilst a senior may prefer comfortable beds.
Your kitty will also need food, of course. What type you get should be determined by your pet’s age and health. Ask your Towns County, GA veterinarian for advice on this.
Bringing Fluffy Home
If you have other pets, put your cat’s belongings in a different area at first. A spare room is a great choice. This will provide Fluffy with a space to unwind and settle in.
Don’t rush when you arrive home. Put the carrier down and let your cat come out when she’s ready.
This is when your cat’s personality comes into play. Some cats may instantly begin exploring their new territories. Others may stay put and only emerge slowly.
If you have other pets, take your time making introductions. This should ideally be done in phases over several days. Ask your veterinarian for detailed advice on this.
How Can I Keep My Shelter Cat Safe?
Our feline friends are pretty independent. They are also wandering around, meowing bundles of curiosity and mischief.
Petproofing is crucial. That involves addressing anything you don’t want your pet 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. Also, make sure that your doors and windows close securely. Ask your veterinarian for advice on this.
We also recommend that you keep your new pet safe and sound indoors. Kitties who are permitted to roam face major risks, including traffic, weather, chemicals, and predators. Plus, Fluffy will be unfamiliar with her surroundings and could easily get lost.
How Do I Form A Bond With A Shelter Cat?
Some cats may immediately decide that you’re the best thing since canned tuna 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 Fluffy. You will need to earn her trust. That means she needs to be confident that you will not grab or hold her against her will.
Talk to your furry companion and offer toys, snacks, and catnip. Playing with her and letting her snuggle up with you if she likes will also help get that motor going.
How Can I Keep A Shelter Cat Healthy?
One of the first things you should do is bring Fluffy to the veterinarian. Your cat 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.
This is also an excellent time to get specific information about caring for your kitty companion.
Conclusion: With millions of cats admitted to shelters each year, adopting a kitty from a shelter is an excellent way to give one lucky feeling another shot.
Schedule an Appointment at Your Towns County, GA Animal Clinic
Do you need to bring your cat in? Is Fluffy overdue for her exam? Contact your Towns County, GA pet hospital today!
