I often mention how I didn’t realize I was a cat person until I had my Siamese-cross Racer. But after experiencing her love and affection (not to mention her fierce independence), I can’t imagine anything more satisfying than having kitty love in my life.
There are many things that get better with age, and a feline friend is one of them! If you’re thinking about adopting a kitten or know someone who is, ask that they consider a senior cat instead. Sure, kittens are cute, but adult cats have a great deal going for them. Read and share this list of why adopting a senior cat might be right for you!
- Senior cats are some of the hardest to find homes for — so by adopting a senior cat you’re literally saving a life! This is a great life lesson to instill in your little ones.
- A senior cat’s personality has already developed, so you’ll know right away from your first encounter if he or she is a good fit for your family.
- A senior cat won’t grow any larger, so you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for. Plus, you won’t have to upgrade to a larger cat house or litter box as they continue to grow.
- A senior cat may be house-trained with basic etiquette and not attack feet, bite hands or use the couch and carpet as a scratching post.
- Senior cats are often already litter trained and are less likely to “forget” where the box is. To help keep cats happy about their litter box, no matter what their age, use a quality cat litter like Arm & Hammer Slide. It traps odours for 7 days, and is dust-free with a soft texture that’s easy on paws. What’s best is the patented EZ Clean technology means the used litter slides right out! No more scrubbing or scraping the bottom of the box!
- Senior cats are often content to just relax in your company, unlike younger cats, who may get into mischief because they’re bored.
Did you Know? On Friday the 13th, it’s good to remember that senior cats aren’t the only ones that tend to be forgotten – black cats are too. The superstitions that surround black cats have a real impact on them finding a forever home. Remember, the idea that black cats bring bad luck is nothing but a myth, so don’t let that stand in your way of welcoming a deserving cat into your family.
To adopt a senior or black cat or learn more about cat adoption, visit your local SPCA or find your nearest animal shelter by searching online. Do you have experience adopting a senior cat or black cat? I’d love to hear about your feline!
Allie f says
This is such wise advice!
Stephanie LaPlante says
I love senior cats. I find they’re a lot more affectionate than younger cats. I have 8 rescues ranging from 4 to 17 years old.
Cristina R. says
Ha what great timing for this post. We have been talking about the possibility of adopting a cat again and had not thought of looking into an older cat. You have great reasons and suggestions.
Angelehm says
I have had a few cats in my life and they were each unique , Vampirella , Moxie, Smokey,Patches,General, Mr.Missy… Now I have my three 12 year old min pin /terriers who were adopted together as pups. We just lost our 14 year old doodle American Eskimo X Mishka also adopted. Older pets are usually house and leash trained.
Kay says
We had to give our cats away after my first son was born and we discovered he was allergic. =( He also loves cats.
Guppy says
I don’t think I’d ever adopt a senior cat as we both would be too set in our ways lol! But I’m totally pro cat adoption and have done it a few times – even a gorgeous all black one!
SHIRLEY says
Cats are awesome animals. My cats name was Kit Kat.
Janet M says
I am not in the position to get a cat now, but thanks for the advice if I should change.
Beth E says
I miss having a cat. Our son is severely allergic. But not to dogs (go figure) so we rescued a senior chihuahua.
LisaM says
We have two lovely cats – one a purebred and one a rescue and they’re both awesome.
Carole D says
I’m scare of cats, I’m always scare they will jump at me. They are cute though.
Elizabeth Matthiesen says
It is so important to do your research before adopting an animal, some good pointers in this post. 🙂
jan says
Achoo. Young or old that is what cats make me do. I appreciate those that can take them in.
angie andrews says
We adopted our cat at age 4 and he has been great. Kittens are cute, but are a lot of work and for me right now I don’t have the time to train a kitten
kathy downey says
A wonderful post thanks for sharing we have so many adult cats in shelters all over Canada needing homes
Rosanne Robinson says
Great info for everyone interested in adopting cats, I’m allergic to them.
Wanda Tracey says
We have a cat in our life right now and she is funny,fun, and inquisitive. She definitely has her own kind of personality and she walks with a definite swag!
nicolthepickle says
I think I’d prefer an adult cat.
tamara m says
we have a senior black cat who is a true member of our family! we did not adopt him from a shelter, but did rescue him as a kitten and he’s had a place in our home ever since! a family member found a box of kittens abandoned in the trees at the back of a grocery store parking lot, and we brought one of the furry little guys home. almost 15 years later he is still the friendliest, most perfect cat! love to the senior animals who need homes!
nicky says
Thanks for the tips! I’ve never had a cat, so I enjoy visiting friends who have one.
Pam says
I feel so sad for those black cats that I see at the Humane society, I wish I could adopt them all.
ruth moreira-lozon says
I am terribly allergic to cats. However, I do think adopting is the way to go when it comes to getting a pet. Often these animals have so much love to give!
Jeannie says
Great tips! I think senior pets all need a loving home until the end too!