Adopting a cat for the first time? Check animal rescues! Ask questions about the cat before you adopt. And use this first-timer cat adoption list.
First-time cat owners should consider the cost and needs of cats before adopting.
Many people believe cats are easier than dogs.
They are not easier to take care of. Just different.
Grab my cat adoption ebook to see if you’re ready to adopt a cat!
Adopting a cat for the first time tips:
- Cat adoption animal rescues
- Questions to ask before you adopt
- How to introduce yourself to a cat for the first time
- Adopting a cat for the first time tips
- Cat proof home ideas
- Cat supplies checklist
- Choosing a cat guardian
- How to find a cat sitter
Check out these adopting a cat for the first time tips today or pin the image below to your Cat Adoption board on Pinterest.
Disclaimer: You (and only you) are responsible for your cat. I earn a commission through affiliate links below. No additional cost to you.
1. Cat adoption animal rescues
First, make sure you go to an animal rescue or shelter that has a no-kill policy.
Unfortunately, many animals are euthanized daily because they can’t find homes. It is better to support a no-kill facility.
There are millions of people that want a pet in their homes. There’s no reason that homeless pets should be euthanized.
You can use the No Kill Network to find a no-kill shelter by zip code.
RescueMe.org is another good resource to find pets that need new homes. Pet parents and animal shelters post on this site.
I understand that all cats deserve a good home, including those at facilities that euthanize. However, it is more ideal to support shelters that do not euthanize.
2. Questions to ask before you adopt
The animal shelter will ask you a bunch of questions to see if you qualify for cat adoption. This is a good thing.
Animal shelters want to make sure that adopted cats stay in the home forever.
It’s heartbreaking for animals to go back and forth. All animals deserve a loving, forever home.
You can ask questions specific to your situation during the interview.
Some questions might include:
- Is the cat socialized? Cat socialization is crucial at a young age. If young kittens are not socialized properly, they can become feral. Feral cats are seriously threatened by humans and take much longer to warm up to them.
- Does the cat have a medical history? If you are in the position to adopt a special needs cat, please do. Special needs kitties are typically left behind simply because people can’t afford/don’t feel like doing the work. If the cat needs medicine, the shelter and your vet can teach you the best tips and tricks for administering. Don’t let special needs deter you. However, knowing special needs in advance is helpful. You’ll also want to know if the cat is spayed or neutered, current on vaccines, and if he has a microchip. Most shelters take care of this.
- How is the cat with people? You want to know how the cat acts around strangers, volunteers, workers, and any other people before you adopt. Cats are territorial, and new environments stress them out easily. Your newly adopted cat will take some time to adjust to your home. Knowing how the cat acts with people before bringing him home will help you better understand the cat’s behavior.
- Has the cat been around children? If so, how was the interaction? If you have kids at home it’s important to know how the cat interacts with them. Cats can learn to be tolerable, however, small children are annoying. Sometimes children pull on tails or hit cats. This is not intentional, but cats don’t know this.
- How is the cat around other animals? Perhaps you have a dog at home or plan to adopt more pets. Again, cats are territorial. Wild cats are also solitary animals, and domesticated cats are the same. They typically don’t get along with other animals right away. You’ll need to take it slow and introduce them properly.
- Has the cat ever had a messy altercation? This could be with other cats or humans. You want to know your cat’s battle history before bringing him home.
- Does the cat get overstimulated? Some cats get overstimulated during petting, brushing, or playing. They may swipe or nip when overstimulated. This is normal behavior for some cats. However, if you don’t know this before bringing the cat home, you might think your new cat hates you.
- How did the cat end up at the shelter? Knowing your cat’s previous history can help you and the cat adjust after adoption. If the cat has a sad history, you’ll know to be extra cautious and patient with him.
- Do you suggest adopting a friend? I mentioned above that cats are solitary animals. However, if introduced properly, cats can become loving siblings. Sometimes you will see a bonded pair at shelters. This means that the pair will not be adopted out separately. The pair are so bonded that it is better they continue living together.
- Can we spend time with the cat in the shelter? Ask if you can spend some time with the cat at the shelter first. This will allow you both to gauge if it’s the right fit. The shelter will be happy that you are dedicated to finding the right match.
- Do you have a grace period trial run? Some shelters offer the option to take the cat in for a trial run. However, you should know that cats take some time to warm up. It could take a few days or it could take a few weeks.
- Ask questions specific to your lifestyle. For example, if you travel a lot, ask the shelter for a pet sitter recommendation. If you are new to sharing your home with pets, ask the shelter for a veterinarian recommendation.
3. How to introduce yourself to a cat for the first time
Cats are sensitive creatures that like to do things their way.
So it’s important to introduce yourself properly when you meet a cat for the first time.
People often assume that cats are like dogs. Some cats are like dogs, but the vast majority are not.
I always explain the difference between cats and dogs like this: dogs work to earn our trust. But with cats, we have to work to earn theirs.
This is so true and crucial to understanding if you are completely new to cats.
Cats will remember the interaction and associate you with it. So you must introduce yourself properly from the beginning.
- First, do not approach the cat. Remember, we have to work to earn their trust. Let the cat come to you when he’s ready.
- Crouch down to get to the cat’s level. This is much less intimidating than standing. If the cat starts making his way toward you, offer up a loosely closed fist.
- Cats know their way around by scents so he will want to sniff you first.
- Don’t go for petting right away. Let the cat sniff and inspect you. If you get a nudge on your hand, lightly pet the top of the cat’s head. Don’t go beyond that just yet.
- Cats communicate with body language so be sure to watch out for signals. For example, if you notice the cat quickly turn his head, pull your hand back. You should watch his tail and fur as well.
If the cat continues to rub on you, this means he is comfortable with you. He’s marking you with his scent which means he sees you as his territory.
4. Adopting a cat for the first time tips
The animal shelter should be happy to answer all of your questions. These questions show that you care about making this work.
Make sure the whole family is there. Your new pet is everyone’s responsibility.
Also, if you are new to cats, the shelter should explain dos and don’ts. Again, they want you to be a forever home.
Bring a notepad and pen with you to your interview. Take notes so you can make the right decision.
Hopefully, you will meet a few different cats before adopting one for the first time.
Taking notes will help you and your family stay organized and choose the right companion.
Your family can also volunteer at the shelter. This is a great way for you to get to know the cats.
Cats are smart, and sometimes, they can put on a show. They know why you are there.
In my personal and professional experience with hundreds of cats, they typically show their true colors once they are comfortable with you. Again, this can take several weeks.
You’ll be able to see the real characteristics and traits of the cats if you spend regular time volunteering at the shelter.
And you’ll most likely bond with someone. This will help you make the right decision.
Need a centralized place to keep track of everything related to your cat? Grab my Cat Care Binder Bundle!
5. Cat proof home ideas
If you’re serious about cat adoption, you need to cat-proof your home before you bring the cat home.
The shelter will ask you about your home and some even require a home visit before you adopt. So it’s better to be prepared.
Cats are curious creatures. Your new cat might spend some time under the bed. But, once he’s comfortable, he will inspect and snoop around.
You should go room-by-room and inspect it as if you are a toddler. Inch around your home and remove anything dangerous to a baby.
Prepare a way to close off the kitchen. Cats are notorious for jumping on the counters.
Wild cats climb and perch so they can watch over their territory. This instinct is ingrained in domesticated cats. Even if they have lived indoors their whole lives.
All medications should be in a locked bottle behind a closed door. Cats sniff around and eat random things.
Food should never be left out. Even if you think your cat won’t go for it.
Many human foods and other products are toxic to cats. Don’t take any chances.
6. Cat supplies checklist
Now that your home is completely safe for your new animal friend, there are some supplies you need to keep your cat happy.
I mentioned above, domesticated cats have instincts ingrained in them.
We have to think about their wild ancestors when choosing the right cat supplies.
Cat food
Unfortunately, most commercial cat food is not healthy. However, you should continue to feed whatever the cat eats at the shelter.
You can transition to better-quality cat food after a few months.
Cat litter
A stainless steel box is more sanitary than plastic. You’ll also want to use a metal or ceramic litter scoop. Buy on Chewy and Amazon.
Unscented, naturally clumping cat litter is best. I’ve tried 11 different types of clumping cat litter. Unfortunately, none of them are perfect.
Currently, I’m using walnut litter. You can buy it on Chewy, Only Natural Pet, Pets Warehouse, and Amazon. You’ll also need a large double-layer litter mat. Buy on Chewy, Only Natural Pet, and Amazon.
Cat toys
Cats prefer toys made with natural materials like wool, hemp, fur, and cotton.
These materials attract cats right away. I’ve found that the best cat toys are on Etsy.
Cat furniture
Cats need places to climb, perch, scratch, and rest.
Best cat furniture:
These are just the main essentials that you need. You can check out my best cat products list for more.
7. Choosing a cat guardian
By now you will have a happy cat at home. You’re stocked up on enrichment essentials, and your cat has acclimated well to his new home.
Have you thought about a cat guardian?
This guardian should be someone you trust with the care of your cat.
Your cat’s guardian will care for the cat if you cannot. Same as a guardian for your human child.
Working as a pet care provider has taught me the importance of over-preparing.
I’m sure you won’t need to rehome your cat. However, life is unpredictable.
Plus, wouldn’t you want your beloved cat to go to someone you love and trust?
Confirm this with your guardian and provide all care instructions including vet info. You should also give your guardian’s information to your cat’s vet.
Leave your guardian’s contact information in an obvious place in your home. For example, hang the information, along with your vet’s information, on the refrigerator.
8. How to find a cat sitter
Cat boarding and cat hotels are not recommended.
Cats are territorial and prefer to stay in their home. This is more comfortable and less stressful for them.
I worked as a pet sitter for 3 years before starting my online business. So I know from experience what cats prefer.
You can search for a local cat sitter on Meowtel. All sitters are background-checked, insured, and subject to a rigorous application process. You can read reviews and experiences for each sitter.
If you need a dog sitter, you can download the Wag! app to find an insured and background-checked walker in your local area. New clients can get a $5 credit using code: JESSICA9860.
Final thoughts on adopting a cat for the first time
Cat adoption saves lives, but only if you are prepared. It’s important to prepare before you adopt a cat.
That way, the cat finds his forever home.
Many people want pets, but they don’t realize the responsibility that comes with them.
Cats require different maintenance than dogs. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need attention.
Provide daily enrichment and mental stimulation for a happy cat.
Need a centralized place to keep track of everything related to your cat? Grab my Cat Care Binder Bundle!
