Adopt An Older Cat
When thinking about adopting a cat, most people automatically go for kittens: they're small, cute, fun to play with, funny to watch, and generally adorable. However, there are many advantages to adopting an older cat. Here we list a few of the plus points of adult cats, and share a lovely story of two adults getting a new lease on life in a new home.
The Adult Advantage
- An adult cat's personality has already developed, so you'll know if he or she is a good fit for your family.
- An adult cat may very well already know basic household etiquette (like not attacking your feet at night). In particular, senior cats are often already litter trained and are less likely to "forget" where the box is.
- An adult cat won't grow any larger--well, as long as it doesn't eat too much!--so you'll know exactly how much cat you're getting.
- Adult cats are often content to just relax in your company, unlike
younger cats, who may get into mischief because they're bored. Adult cats also make great napping partners!
- Adult cats have often already been taught that scratching posts (not furniture) are for scratching and toys (not hands or feet) are for biting.
- Adult cats are harder to find homes for, and generally the older the cat, the harder it is to rehome. When you adopt a senior cat, you're truly saving a life.
A New Home for Polly and Tilley
Polly and Tilley came to Cats Protection when their previous owner became too ill to be able to care for them. After his previous cat sadly had to be euthanised due to cancer, Arnoud van Vliet wanted to give a new cat a chance to claim the territory in his house. He got in touch with Cats Protection, and Polly and Tilley made such a great impression with their friendly behaviour, that in the end it was not one but two new cats. These two ladies now have a whole house and patio for their enjoyment. They have settled in very quickly, both doing their thing within a few hours after arrival. Polly loves the patio (see the picture) and has claimed the guest bed, and is very talkative. She's also very open to visitors, happily welcoming them, whereas Tilley is much more cautious and quiet, loves sleeping everywhere (see picture) including on lap or chest of her new owner, and is in love with food, and will have to watch her figure...