Adopting a cat is an exciting and life-changing experience, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or adding another feline to your family, knowing what to expect before bringing a cat home can make the transition smoother for both you and your new furry friend.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the first steps to adopting a cat, from deciding if you’re ready to welcoming them into their new home.
Are You Ready to Adopt a Cat?
Before taking the leap, it’s important to ask yourself: Am I truly ready for a cat?
🐾 Cats live long lives – On average, cats live 15–20 years, so adoption is a long-term commitment.
🐾 Financial responsibility – The cost of cat ownership includes:
- Food & treats 🥩 ($20–$50/month)
- Litter & supplies 🚽 ($15–$30/month)
- Vet visits & vaccines 💉 ($100–$300/year)
- Emergency medical care 🏥 (unexpected costs)
🐾 Time & attention – While cats are independent, they still need daily interaction, playtime, and care. If you’re always traveling or too busy, consider whether you can provide them with a stable, loving home.
If you feel ready and committed, let’s move to the next step—choosing the right cat for you!
Choosing the Right Cat for You
Not all cats have the same personality! Some important factors to consider before adopting are:
Kitten vs. Adult Cat: Which is Better?
🐱 Kittens:
✔️ Cute & playful but need a lot of training
✔️ Require more supervision (litter box training, scratching habits)
✔️ High energy—expect zoomies at 3 AM!
🐱 Adult Cats:
✔️ Usually already litter-trained
✔️ Calmer and more predictable personality
✔️ Easier to integrate into a home with kids or other pets
If you’re a first-time cat owner, adopting an adult cat might be easier than dealing with kitten chaos!
Shelter vs. Breeder: Where Should You Adopt From?
🏡 Shelter & Rescue Cats (Best Option!)
✔️ Saves a life—many shelter cats need loving homes!
✔️ More affordable than buying from a breeder
✔️ Often come spayed/neutered & vaccinated
🏆 Breeders (For Specific Breeds Only)
✔️ If you want a particular breed, ethical breeders are an option
✔️ Ensure the breeder follows responsible breeding practices
💡 Best Tip: Visit local animal shelters first! You might find your perfect match waiting for a home.
Personality & Lifestyle Match
Some cat breeds are independent and calm, while others are playful and needy. Here are a few general personality traits:
🐾 Laid-back & affectionate: Ragdolls, British Shorthairs, Scottish Folds
🐾 Playful & energetic: Bengals, Abyssinians, Siamese
🐾 Independent & low-maintenance: Russian Blues, Persians, American Shorthairs
Not sure about breeds? Mixed-breed cats (aka “domestic shorthair” or “domestic longhair”) are just as loving and often have fewer health issues!
Preparing Your Home for a New Cat
Before bringing your new cat home, set up a safe and welcoming environment.
Essential Supplies Checklist
✔️ Litter box & litter – One box per cat, plus one extra!
✔️ Food & water bowls – Stainless steel or ceramic is best.
✔️ High-quality cat food – Wet food, dry food, or a mix.
✔️ Scratching post – Prevents furniture scratching!
✔️ Cozy cat bed – Some cats prefer cardboard boxes, too!
✔️ Toys & enrichment – Wand toys, balls, and puzzle feeders.
✔️ Carrier for vet visits – Essential for safe transport.
Cat-Proof Your Home
🚫 Remove toxic plants (like lilies, aloe, or pothos)
🚫 Hide electrical cords & small objects cats can chew on
🚫 Secure trash cans & food storage
Setting up your home in advance makes the transition less stressful for your new cat!
The Adoption Process: What to Expect
Once you’ve found your ideal cat, here’s what the typical process of adopting a cat looks like:
📍 Visit the Shelter or Rescue – Spend time with different cats to see who you connect with.
📄 Complete an Adoption Application – Shelters may ask about your home environment, experience with pets, and lifestyle.
💰 Adoption Fees & Paperwork – Fees cover spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping.
🏠 Prepare for the First Few Days – The transition home can be overwhelming for a cat—give them space and time to adjust.
Bringing Your Cat Home: The First Few Days
🐾 Let them explore at their own pace – Don’t force interaction right away.
🐾 Start in a single room – Set up their essentials in a quiet space before introducing them to the whole house.
🐾 Be patient & gentle – Some cats hide for the first few days. Let them come to you!
🐾 Schedule a vet visit – A checkup within the first week is ideal to ensure they’re healthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Adopting a Cat
❌ Rushing introductions with other pets – Introduce slowly over several days or weeks.
❌ Changing their food too quickly – Sudden diet changes can cause stomach upset. Transition gradually over 7–10 days.
❌ Overwhelming them with attention – Give them space and time to feel comfortable.
❌ Not providing a scratching post – Without one, your furniture will suffer!
FAQs
Q: How much time does a new cat need to adjust?
Most cats take 1–2 weeks to fully adjust, but some may need a month or more to feel completely at home.
Q: Should I adopt one cat or two?
If you’re away from home a lot, two cats can keep each other company! However, it depends on your lifestyle and budget.
Q: What’s the best food for a newly adopted cat?
Start with the same food they were eating at the shelter and gradually transition to a high-quality diet.
Also Read - Why Does My Cat Meow at Night? Causes & Solutions
Final Thoughts
Adopting a cat is an exciting journey, but proper preparation is key to making it a success! By choosing the right cat, setting up your home, and understanding their needs, you’re giving them the best start in their new forever home.
🐾 Have you adopted a cat before? Share your experience in the comments! 🐾
