How to Choose a Cat from a Shelter

It has been shown that owning a pet, like a cat, reduces stress and blood pressure levels in their owners.  Bringing a new cat or kitten into your home can be an exciting time, but it is important to consider the decision carefully.  To ensure that both you, your family, and your new cat have a healthy, happy life, be sure to choose the right cat for your lifestyle and your family environment.

The basics are common sense – You must be ready to commit to a long-term investment, as some cats can live up to 20 years.  Be sure that you are ready to give your furry family member a forever home.

If you have a lot of time to dedicate to your new pet, a kitten might be your best choice.  They are full of energy and need a lot of time and attention.   They will need interactive playtime and some training.

An adult cat will still need love and attention, but will not need quite so much time for dedicated playtime or training.

Seriously consider adopting an older cat.  They have usually already been trained to live in households with children and/or other pets.  Sadly, most of them will be overlooked in favor of cute kittens, but these older pets are still capable of giving you love and companionship.

Once you have chosen a shelter or rescue organization, keep these tips and suggestions in mind:

• Bring a cat carrier with you for bringing your new friend home.
• Take a quick walk-through in the kennel and observe the behaviors and attitudes of the cats and kittens.
• Go back through and take more time to look at the cats that caught your attention during the first pass. Cats who come up to the door or front of the cage to try to smell you and show an interest are the more social and are good candidates. Try to waken the sleeping cats to observe their appearance and behavior.

When you have selected several cats to examine more thoroughly, ask the attendant if they can be released to you, one by one, for a quick physical check.

While holding the cat or kitten, examine its eyes. They should be bright and clear, with no discharge.
Check the cat’s nose, which should be clean and slightly moist, and with no discharge.
Listen to the cat’s breathing for any signs of congestion, sneezing, or coughing.  These could signal an indication of Kennel Cough (Bordatella).

Look in her ears, which should be clean.  Dirty ears can be signs of ear mites.

The cat’s fur should be clean and shiny, with no evidence of fleas. Look in the armpits and belly for signs of fleas.
Check the cat’s bottom. It should be clean and free of any signs of diarrhea or worms.

If you can spend a few minutes in a quiet place with each cat, this will usually tell you what kind of personality it has.  They should all be interested in meeting you, and do give them some time to warm up to you.

See how the cat reacts to being petted, and if she tries to bite or swat at you, this may not be the right choice.
Pick up the cat, and if she enjoys being held this might be a perfect lap cat.  If she becomes frantic and claws to be put down, this is definitely not a lap cat.

If you have children, bring them on the shelter visit to see how the cats interact with them.  This is important in choosing a cat that is patient around children, and is interested in being around them.

Ask the shelter if a veterinarian visit is included or available with adoptions.  If you have other pets in your household, it is a good idea to have the cat checked by a vet before you bring her home.

*Important:  Ask lots of questions!  Ask how long the cat has been there, the reason for its surrender, medical history (veterinary records), its normal behaviors, and anything else that is a concern.

Take your time with your decision, and remember that you are making this choice for you, your family, and for your new pet.

Cheri