Adopting a Rescue Cat: A Purrfect Option

Are you considering adopting a kitty? Getting a rescue cat may be an excellent choice. Many of our feline patients have been rescued. While these cute furballs may have seen difficulty and misery in the past, many now live the luxurious pet lifestyle, resting, exploring any boxes their people bring home, and enjoying kitty luxuries like toys and catnip. Giving a rescued furball a second chance at life is a great way to find a new furry companion. It can also be extremely rewarding! This article features a local Exeter, CA veterinarian talking about rescued cats.

Are Rescued Kitties Affectionate?

Many people believe that their rescued cats are more loving and cuddly than other felines. While we lack concrete proof on the matter, this makes sense. Cats have very good memories and recognize when someone has helped them. Fluffy is known to adore her saviors and frequently demonstrates her appreciation with snuggles, meows, and purring. (She might also thank you by following you into the bathroom and dumping dead mice on your doorway, but that’s purr for the course.)

What Is the First Thing You Should Do When Adopting A Cat?

A trip to the pet store is really important. Your feline overlord will require toys, bowls, a litterbox, litter, a scratching post, a carrier, and at least one comfortable bed. (We also recommend getting Fluffy a cat tower. However, this doesn’t have to happen right away.)

The next thing to do is contact your veterinarian. Your feline buddy will need a complete nose-to-tail exam. You will also need to catch Fluffy up on any immunizations or parasite control medications she needs. If your pet has not yet been spayed or neutered, this should be scheduled as well. Do not forget about the microchip! 

Aside from scheduling that appointment, petproofing is a must. Kittens are really playful! Unfortunately, that cute, playful streak might backfire. You will need to cope with any potential hazards. The list contains small/sharp objects, ropes and strings, wires and cords, plastic bags and ties, poisonous plants, poisons, and pharmaceuticals. We also recommend making sure that your screens close securely. Ask your Exeter, CA vet for more information. 

What Should I Do If I Discover a Cat in Need of Help?

If you come across a wounded or sick cat, we recommend that you take Fluffy to your veterinarian immediately. If the furball is in really bad shape, that may entail visiting an emergency clinic. However, if it is after hours and/or the cat does not appear to require immediate emergency care, you may bring her home first. Set up your feline companion in a quiet, comfortable area with bedding, food, drink, and a litterbox, then bring her in the following day. If you decide to take the furball home, keep her away from other pets and children until your Exeter, CA veterinarian gives you the all-clear.

What Is The Cat Distribution System?

The Universal Cat Distribution System is occasionally used to connect cats with their formally allocated owners. This explains why kitties can show up unexpectedly in people’s lives. For example, Fluffy may unexpectedly appear on someone’s doorstep, at their place of employment, or even on the side of the road. If a cute furball materializes unexpectedly in your life, it could be your cat!

Of course, this is not a mandate. If you find a cat out on her own, you are not required to keep her. You can still help Fluffy out, though!

How Do You Form An Emotional Bond With A Rescued Cat?

Rule number one? Never force attention on Fluffy. Before they can build bonds with humans, our feline companions must feel secure. This could take two minutes, two months, or two years; cats are unpredictable.

Here are some tips:

• Chat with your feline buddy. Use a pleasant tone!
• Play with Fluffy. Holding a laser pointer or wand toy is an excellent method to start that little engine.
• If your kitty adores being petted, give her the attention she craves.
• Hold out your hand to Fluffy. If she approaches, allow her to smell your hand before gently touching her ears or forehead.
• Snacks can be quite useful here. Just stay with the safe options. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
• Provide Fluffy with kitty comfort items including beds, boxes, cat towers, scratching posts, snacks, and catnip.
• Give her some privacy. If your cat appears scared, offer her plenty of comfortable hiding places. Kitty condos are nice, but Fluffy can be content with a box or a paper grocery bag with the handles cut off.

For additional information, please contact your Exeter, CA veterinarian.

What Are Some Tips for Adopting a Rescued Cat?

Our next tip would be to keep Fluffy safe and sound indoors. She’s much better off staying in! 

Give Fluffy a peaceful place to settle in. This is especially critical if you own additional pets. Keep your pets separate until your veterinarian gives you the go-ahead.

Consider getting two rescues, especially if you don’t currently have pets. If you adopt both furballs simultaneously, neither will feel territorial. Fluffy and Mittens will be able to share numerous items, including toys and furnishings, saving you from having to double your spending. Of course, adopting any type of animal is a lifelong commitment. There are several factors to consider before adopting a rescued cat.

Consider the remainder of your household. This includes other pets, children, and any roommates you may have, as well as your schedule and financial situation. Make sure you’re prepared, willing, and able to care for Fluffy for the rest of her natural life.

Open your heart. Don’t be surprised if your heart melts the first time Fluffy cuddles with you or starts purring after you pet her. Adopting a rescued kitty can be a great way to find your feline buddy!

What Are Some Statistics About Rescued Cats?

Nobody knows exactly how many homeless cats there are in the United States, although estimates range from 60 million to 100 million. Unfortunately, those numbers appear to be rising.

Each year, many of these cats end up in shelters. However, this does not always result in a happy ending for them. Almost 3.4 million cats are brought to shelters every year, with approximately 1.3 million adopted. Unfortunately, almost 1.4 million are euthanized.

Do Rescued Cats Have Problems?

There is no single, universal answer to this question. Our feline companions are all distinctly unique! Some cats who have been rescued go into their new homes without missing a beat, quickly curl up on the couch, and act as if they have always lived there. Others will feel very scared and unsettled in a new place. 

Many of our feline pals have a hard time adjusting to major life changes. Be patient and give your new pal time to acclimate. Time, love, and patience can help a fearful little furball turn into a loving, cuddly purrball!

Book an Appointment At Our Exeter, CA Animal Hospital

Are you thinking of adopting a rescued cat? Have you got any questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact your Exeter, CA pet hospital today! We are always willing to help.