If there is one silver lining to the current pandemic, it is that animal shelters are finding it hard to offer up as many cats and dogs for adoption as they typically do. There has been a run on many animal shelters and pets adopted out of these facilities are finding new homes at a record pace.
But, as life slowly gets back to a semblance of normal, there is a good possibility that the record setting shelter adoptions could subside. If you’re considering bringing a feline companion into your home, and wondering where to look, an animal shelter is a great option. There are so many reasons to adopt from a shelter.
1. Saves Multiple Lives
Approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters each year according to the ASPCA. By adopting a cat, versus purchasing one from a retail store or a breeder, it allows for an additional opening at an animal shelter for another pet to be adopted, thus saving 2 lives. And with cats being great therapy animals, one could argue they may save a third life by easing mental stress and providing companionship, especially during these trying times.
2. Helps with Overpopulation
History tells us that there are simply not enough families each year that are willing to accommodate all the pets born in a given year. By adopting a cat or a dog you will help with our pet overpopulation problem. Per ASPCA statistics, each year approximately 1.5 million shelter animals have to be euthanized because a home cannot be found for them. About 57% of these statistics are cats.
3. It makes good financial sense to adopt a cat
For a relatively low fee, you’ll take home a cat that is already spayed or neutered, up-to-date on vaccines and microchipped. Many shelters and rescues will also include extras in the adoption fee such as a cat collar, a bag of food or pet insurance.
4. The personality of an adopted cat is known
Cats in many shelters interact with their caretakers and volunteers every day, and these people really get to know their personalities. Particularly with adult cats, you can find a companion with the type of temperament you’re looking for. You could find a playful, active cat or a calmer feline who prefers cuddling and a quieter environment.
5.Cats keep you young
According to Harvard, mental stimulation keeps your mind fit and helps stave off cognitive decline – keeping you young for longer.3 Cats love to play and will enjoy chasing a toy, looking for something you hide, and gently "wrestling" with your hand- all great mentally stimulating acts for pet and owner.
6.Cats can keep you active
Many cats enjoy charging around the home and climbing up their scratching posts or trees and fences if you have the outdoor space for them. They encourage you to get up and about yourself, which has a range of health benefits, both physical and mental.
7. Lifetime Resource
When a cat is adopted from a shelter, the owner automatically enjoys a lifetime resource of information, guidance, healthcare, and expertise from shelter employees and volunteers. This can be a great help going forward when trying to figure out proper care for an adopted animal.
8. Makes Other Pets Happy
Bringing home a cat from the shelter can reduce the sense of loneliness for other pets when you are gone, especially if you have another cat or a dog that enjoys cats. You can check with shelter personnel about “cat testing” your dog before adoption. If you already have a cat it may take a little adjustment time for the two cats to get used to each other.
