Here’s the situation: You need a new friend (doesn’t everyone?), and the Animal Humane Society (9785 Hudson Rd.) has a surplus of them.
June just happens to be Adopt-a-Cat Month, and it’s a time of the year when more and more cats are coming through the doors of the Animal Humane Society, which takes in nearly 20,000 felines each year. Unfortunately, the number of cats far surpasses the number of homes looking to adopt them. That’s where you come in.
The adoption fee for adult cats (1 or older) at the Animal Humane Society is only $50 (includes spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, microchipping and more). If you decide to adopt two cats (since your friend would love a companion when you’re not around), the second adoption fee will be waived.
Cat adoption isn’t to be taken lightly. You have a lot of decisions to consider first. These tips are provided by the Animal Humane Society to help you assess your needs:
Cat or Kitten? While kittens are adorable and playful, they can be a handful! Are you prepared to handle the work involved in raising a kitten, like litter-box training and supervising to keep them out of trouble? Adult cats are usually calmer and may require less training and attention. Also consider that cats can live 15-20 years. If you’re looking for a long-term commitment, a kitten may be the right choice for you. If you aren’t prepared to commit to having a pet for that long, choosing an older cat may be best.
Do you have children? A kitten may not be the best choice for a family with very young children. Kittens are fragile and can be harmed if a child is rough with them. Consider getting a bigger, adult cat if there are small children in your home.
Shorthaired or longhaired? How much time do you have to commit to grooming your cat? Longhaired cats require more frequent grooming sessions to prevent matting. If you don’t have time to regularly groom your cat, you may prefer a shorthaired variety.
Personality preferences? Each cat’s personality is different. Some are laid back and mellow while others are playful and full of energy. Some like to be held, brushed, and petted, while others would prefer to be left alone. If you are looking for specific qualities, an adult cat may be the best choice for you because their personalities are already developed.
Other pets in the home? If you already have a pet in the home, it’s important to carefully consider whether or not your new pet will get along with your current pet. At Animal Humane Society, we can help you identify which cats have lived with other cats or dogs in their previous home, which may make an introduction more successful.
Find more information on cat or pet adoption at the Animal Humane Society’s website or by calling the Woodbury location at 651.730.6008.
