Cat Adoption FAQ
Every cat is different, so finding the right match is about more than just choosing the one you like the look of. We always aim to match each cat or kitten with a home that suits their individual needs.
Things to think about include:
Age
Kittens are full of energy and need lots of time, play and supervision. Their personalities are still developing, so their temperament may change as they grow.
Adult cats often have a more established personality, which can make it easier to understand what sort of home they will suit. If you are looking for a specific temperament, such as a calm, confident or affectionate cat, an adult cat may be the better match.
Temperament
Some cats are bold and confident, while others are shy and need a calm, patient person to help them feel safe.
Your home and routine
We will ask about your household, work pattern, children, other pets and whether you can offer outdoor access if this is something the cat needs.
Individual requirements
Some cats need a garden, some are better suited to indoor life, and some may need a quieter home with someone who understands they will need time to adjust.
Where we can, we avoid placing cats or kittens into homes where they would be the only cat with no outdoor access, as this is not always the best setup for their wellbeing.
Adopting from Rescue Kitties means giving a cat or kitten a fresh start and a safe, loving home.
Our cats are:
- Vet checked
- Vaccinated
- Microchipped
- Neutered if they are over 20 weeks old
We take time to understand both the cat and the adopter, so we can make the best possible match. Some cats will come with more background information than others, especially if they have previously lived in a home.
Our team is also here to offer advice and support while your new cat settles in. Adoption also helps reduce the number of unwanted cats and kittens, and gives rescue cats the chance they deserve instead of supporting breeding.
Before your new cat or kitten arrives, it helps to have everything ready so they can settle in calmly.
You will need:
Food and water bowls
Food and water should be kept in separate places, as many cats prefer not to drink next to their food.
Suitable food
We will let you know what your cat or kitten is currently eating so any changes can be made gradually.
Beds and hiding places
Cats like choice. A cosy bed, a quiet hiding space or a higher spot can all help them feel secure.
Litter trays
We recommend having more than one litter tray, placed away from food, water and sleeping areas.
Scratching posts or cat trees
Scratching is natural behaviour, so providing somewhere suitable helps protect your furniture and keeps your cat happy.
Toys and enrichment
Toys are especially important while your cat is settling indoors, as they help prevent boredom and build confidence.
A secure cat carrier
You will need this for bringing your cat home and for future vet visits.
A quiet start
Try to keep things calm for the first few days. Too many visitors or too much noise can be overwhelming for a newly adopted cat.
This depends on the individual cat. Some cats are suited to indoor living, while others need safe outdoor access to be happy.
Indoor cats
Indoor cats need plenty of stimulation, toys, scratching posts, climbing spaces and interaction to stop them becoming bored or frustrated.
Outdoor cats
Cats with outdoor access can enjoy exploring and exercising naturally, but outdoor life does come with risks such as roads, getting lost, injuries or fights with other cats.
Whether your cat is indoor or outdoor, regular flea, worm and vaccination treatments are important.
Since June 2024, it has been a legal requirement in England for pet cats to be microchipped. Microchipping gives your cat permanent identification and greatly improves the chance of them being returned home if they ever go missing. Unlike collars or tags, a microchip cannot easily fall off or be removed.
Owners who do not follow the law may face a fine of up to £500.
