Before You Adopt a Pet
Can you make a lifetime commitment to a cat or kitten? Cats can live into their twenties. It is important to be committed to providing a lifelong home before you adopt. Thousands of animals die in shelters every day because someone did not make this commitment to them.

Do you have the financial resources to care for a cat or kitten? In addition to their basic needs (food, shelter, litter, scratching post, etc.), even healthy cats require at least one regular vet visit each year. It is also important to be prepared for potential medical emergencies and chronic conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and cancer.

Do you have the time to commit to a cat or kitten? While most cats have a fairly independent nature, they really do not like to be left alone for extended periods of time. Cats and kittens need attention, love, social interaction, and your time. If you travel frequently or you regularly are gone for extended periods during the day, perhaps you should wait to adopt until you have more time to spend with your new companion.

Are you thinking of adopting a cat or kitten for your children? If so, your children should be able to understand how to be respectful of any animals in the home. Children should not pull an animal's tail, chase them, hit them, carry them around, or force themselves on an animal that wants to be left alone. It's also important to remember that an animal's care and well-being are always the responsibility of the adults in the home.

Are you prepared for an adjustment period after you adopt a new cat or kitten? Change can be difficult for most cats, and while you will probably be excited about bringing your new companion, he or she will likely be frightened and unsure about what is happening to them. If you have other animals in your home, they may also feel unsettled by this new addition to your family. The initial adjustment period can take anywhere from two to eight weeks, and the most important things that you can provide for your companions are patience, reassurance, love, and a calm environment.

More About Adoption

Additional information about adopting a cat through RMACA.

Success Story
"They liked to play with crumpled balls of newspaper, they liked to play catch with a wire cat toy, and they liked to chase each other around my mom’s room. But, they also liked to be hugged and petted; plus, they liked to climb on the back of our shoulders." more >

View adoptable cats
Adoptable Cats: Photos and descriptions of cats currently in need of a safe and loving home.

Get in Touch
303-202-3516
2600 West 2nd Avenue
Unit 8
Denver, CO 80219
rescue@rmaca.org
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