Lifestyle
Where and how to adopt a cat
You’ve decided to adopt a cat, but where do you start? Where can you adopt your future companion?
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You have thought it through carefully and decided to adopt a cat? What wonderful news! A beautiful, long adventure awaits you. What steps should you take? Here are a few tips to guide you.
Where can you adopt your cat?
Today, you can adopt your cat either from a private individual or from a professional, such as a breeder, pet store, animal welfare organisation, or shelter. Your decision will often depend on the type of cat you are looking for and the reasons that led you to adopt.
There is no fixed rule; the most important thing is to find the companion who melts your heart.
Adopting a cat for free from a private individual
It is perfectly possible to adopt a kitten or an adult cat from a private individual.
Adopting a cat from a shelter or animal welfare organisation
Today, the number of abandoned or stray cats continues to rise, and animal welfare organisations are overwhelmed. Choosing to adopt a kitten or adult cat from a shelter means giving them a second chance and the possibility of a happy life. It also frees up a place in the shelter for another cat in need.
If you fall in love with a cat from a shelter or organisation, you may need to sign an adoption contract. Organisations usually ask for certain supporting documents, such as an ID card and proof of address. Adoption fees are lower than breeder fees because they usually only cover veterinary costs that have already been paid. When you adopt a cat through an organisation
, you are guaranteed to welcome an animal that is identified, spayed or neutered, and vaccinated.
Adopting a cat from a breeder
If you want to adopt a purebred kitten, you should turn to a breeder.
Purebred cats are known not only for their physical appearance but also for specific personality traits. For example, Birmans are known for being very calm, while Siamese cats are lively and very “talkative.” You should also be aware that buying a purebred cat will be much more expensive than adopting a cat from a shelter.
Adopting a cat from a pet store
In many countries, the sale of animals in pet stores is increasingly restricted to discourage impulse purchases. Adopting a pet is a responsible decision that deserves careful thought.
In addition, it is harder to verify good breeding conditions, especially respect for animal welfare, in a pet store than in a family-run breeding environment. It is also more difficult to assess the cat’s personality or ensure proper behavioural development.
What steps and obligations are involved when adopting a cat?
Whether your future cat is given to you or sold to you, certain obligations apply. Their purpose is to protect and guarantee the health and well-being of your animal. Some formalities must be completed by you, while others must be handled by the organisation or person transferring the cat to you.
Looking for a vet?
Your vet plays a big role in your pet’s health. Enter your location and get a list of vets near you.
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