Thinking of adopting a new feline friend in 2024?

Adopting a cat from a rescue centre can be a wholesome way to introduce a new feline friend to your family. To help this process run smoothly, the team at Estcourt Vets have put together advice on what you should be asking rescue centres during the adoption process.

Please remember, adopting a cat is a big responsibility that should not be taken on lightly. Estcourt Vets urges owners to do plenty of research on cat care before making any big decisions.

The team at Estcourt Vets are happy to answer any questions you may have about caring for a cat, just contact our team on 01380 723687.

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What should I ask the rescue centre when adopting a cat?

Before heading to a rescue/rehoming centre, it’s important you sit down and gather some ideas as to what type of cat would be most suitable for your family. Research different breeds and their typical characteristics, as well as if there are any that are predisposed to certain medical conditions. Estcourt Vets also recommends discussing your needs with the rescue centre staff. They know each of the cats in their care and want to ensure that they go to the correct home. Opening the discussion will help both you and the centre to match the perfect cat to your family.

1. Background information

Estcourt Vets recommends asking what is known about the cat’s history and how they ended up at the rescue centre. This will give you valuable insight into their past experiences and whether they could have any behavioural or medical issues. It could also identify whether the cat is used to other cats, pets, or children.

2. Assessments for health and wellbeing

One of the benefits of rehoming a cat from a rescue centre is the fact they will have a full assessment done prior to any adoption process. This assessment will cover things like their behaviour and any potential or underlying health conditions that may need treating. This information will help you and your family make an informed decision when choosing your new cat.

3. Medical conditions and preventative care

Estcourt Vets wants to urge new cat owners to research the benefits of vaccinations and neutering. Most rescue centres will have policies in place to protect the animals, which typically include having them neutered and vaccinated prior to rehoming. However, by understanding why this happens, it shows that you understand the practical side of pet ownership.

4. Training

Make sure you ask the rescue centre about your chosen cat’s training. Whether they are house trained and are happy being groomed and petted will make a big difference to the start of your journey together.

5. Special considerations for your chosen cat

Does your chosen feline require a certain type of living environment? Do they seem frightened of loud noises? Are they purely a house cat or do they need to roam?

Understanding what the cat needs before you go through the adoption process will help you to understand if your feline friend is the right fit for your home and family.

When it comes to rehoming cats, our knowledgeable team of cat vets are happy to advise you about how to care for your cat once you get them home, as well as what veterinary care they will need at this stage of their life. Contact us on 01380 723687 and don’t forget to register your new cat with Estcourt Vets – we can’t wait to meet them!

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