Refer to This Checklist Before Adopting Your Furry Feline

The month of June marks Adopt-a-Cat Month. In recognition of this, the Animal Coalition of Delaware County (ACDC) has offered tips–in conjunction with the American Humane Association, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), CATalyst Council and Petfinder–to navigate your way through adopting a cat.

“During June, shelters and rescues are literally bursting at the seams with kittens of all ages and their mothers, in addition to a wide variety or adult cats-all in need of new permanent homes”, said ACDC’s cat Director Kim Butler.

“But as much as we want to find homes for everyone as quickly as possible, we also want to be sure that potential adopters have done their homework, and that they know what it takes to be a responsible pet owner," added Ann Pohl, ACDC’s adoption processing coordinator.

T0p 10 Checklist For Adopting a Cat

1. If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two. Cats require exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction. Two cats can provide this for each other. Plus, they’ll provide more benefits to you. Cats’ purring has been shown to soothe humans as well as themselves–and they have an uncanny ability to just make you smile.

2. Find a cat whose personality meshes with yours. Just as we each have our own personality, so do cats. In general, cats with long hair and round heads and bodies are more easygoing than lean cats with narrow heads and short hair, who are typically more active. Adoption counselors can offer advice to help you match the individual cat’s personality with your own.

3. Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption. You’ll want to take any medical records you received from the adoption center on your first visit. “Regular veterinary care is critically important to the health and well-being of your cat,” says Dr. Larry Kornegay, president of the AVMA. “Getting your new cat to a veterinarian early will help make sure there are no underlying illnesses or injuries, and your veterinarian can work with you to develop a plan to help your new pet live the happiest, healthiest, longest life possible.”

4. Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before your new pet comes home. Visiting the shelter or animal control facility should be a family affair. When adopting a new cat with existing pets at home, discuss with the adoption facility how to make a proper introduction.

5. Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat. Understand any pet is a responsibility and there’s a cost associated with that. A cat adopted from a shelter is a bargain; many facilities will have already provided spaying or neutering, initial vaccines, and a microchip for permanent identification. Plus, shelters and rescue groups are there to offer guidance and assistance as you acclimate your new family member.

6. Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives. Be prepared so your new cat can start feeling at home right away. Your cat will need a litter box, cat litter, food and water bowls, food, scratching posts, safe and stimulating toys, a cushy bed, a brush for grooming, a toothbrush and nail clippers.

7. Cat-proof your home. A new cat will quickly teach you not to leave things lying out. Food left on the kitchen counter will serve to teach your new friend to jump on counters for a possible lunch. Get rid of loose items your cat might chew on, watch to ensure the kitten isn’t chewing on electric cords, and pick up random items like paper clips (which kittens may swallow).

8. Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family. It can take several weeks for a cat to relax in a new environment. It’s a great idea to keep the new addition secluded in a single room (with a litter box, food and water, toys and the cat carrier left out and open with bedding inside) until the cat is used to the new surroundings; this is particularly important if you have other pets. If you’ve adopted a kitten, socialization is very important. But remember: take it slow.

9. Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan. You probably have a plan in place for getting your family to safety in case of an emergency. Adjust this plan to include your pets. Add phone numbers for your veterinarian and closest 24-hour animal hospital to your “in case of emergency” call list, and be sure to have a several-day supply of your pet’s food and medications on hand.

10. If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process. Though well-meaning, the surprise kitty gift doesn’t allow for a “get-to know-one-another” period. Remember, adopting a cat isn’t like purchasing a household appliance or a piece of jewelry– this is a real living, breathing, and emotional being.

To learn more about ACDC's mission or if you're interested adoptnig a cat, call 610-876-1479 or visit them at www.acdc.ws. You can also pay a visit to the organization’s Adoption Center located at the PetSmart in the Marple Crossings Shopping Center at 400 S. State Road in Springfield.