June is the perfect time to open your heart and home to a new feline friend as we celebrate Adopt a Cat Month. Initiated by the American Humane Association in 1974, this month aligns with the peak of “kitten season,” when shelters are overwhelmed with an influx of kittens. By choosing to adopt during this time, you gain a loving companion and help alleviate the strain on overcrowded shelters.
The Benefits of Having a Feline Companion
Research has shown that owning a cat can benefit your mental and physical well-being. Cats are known to reduce stress levels and lower blood pressure. The simple act of stroking a cat can release endorphins and decrease the production of cortisol, a stress hormone. Having a cat in your home can create a calming environment and provide a sense of relaxation.
Furthermore, cats are excellent companions, especially for individuals living alone or needing emotional support. Cats are known to be highly intuitive and can sense when their owners are feeling down or anxious. Their soothing presence can provide comfort during difficult times.
Cats are naturally clean animals known for their grooming habits. If they are not litterbox trained, it is fairly easy to teach them, making them ideal pets for individuals living in apartments or those with busy lifestyles.
Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained using positive reinforcement, which involves rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or play. Clicker training has become a popular technique for training cats to sit, high-five, come when called, and so forth. It is a great way to interact with your cat.
How to Prepare for Adopting a Cat
Before bringing a cat into your home, it’s essential to ensure you are fully prepared. Here are some essential steps to take to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend:
- Create a Safe Space: Set up a designated area in your home where your cat can feel safe and secure. Use a spare room or a quiet corner of your house. Please provide them with a comfortable bed, food and water bowls, a litter box, a scratching post, and toys.
- Stock Up on Supplies Before bringing your cat home, ensure you have all the necessary supplies such as litter, a litter box, food and water bowls, high-quality cat food, toys, scratching posts, and a carrier for trips to the vet.
- Cat-Proof Your Home: Cats are curious creatures and can get into mischief if given the opportunity. Take the time to cat-proof your home by securing loose wires, blocking access to hazardous areas, and removing toxic plants or substances. See our blog, Common Indoor and Outdoor Pet Poisons. Even if you are familiar with common pet poisons, reviewing the lists is a good idea.
- Schedule a Vet Visit: Once you bring your new cat home, schedule a visit to Hammond Veterinary Hospital. We can thoroughly examine your cat, update vaccinations if necessary, and provide you with important information on its health and care.
- Introduce Gradually: If you have other pets in your home, gradually introducing them to your new cat is essential. Being patient with slow introductions reduces potential conflicts and gives your new cat time to adjust to their new surroundings.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition for you and your new feline companion.
Here are some links for more information on bringing a new cat home:
Introducing Your Cat to a New Cat
Everything you need to know before you adopt a cat!
How to Introduce a Dog to a Cat
Selecting the Right Cat for Your Family
When adopting a cat, finding the right fit for your family and lifestyle is essential. Cats have different personalities and energy levels, so taking the time to understand their needs and preferences is crucial. Here are a few factors to consider when looking for the perfect cat:
- Age: Kittens are adorable, but they require a lot of time and attention. An adult or senior cat may be better if you have a busy schedule or prefer a more independent cat. Older cats are often overlooked in shelters but can make excellent companions.
- Compatibility: If you have other pets or children, finding a cat that will get along with them is essential. Some cats tolerate other animals and children, while others prefer a more solitary lifestyle.
- Health: Consider any potential health issues that a cat may have. Some cats require special diets or medications, so ensure you have what they need to provide the necessary care.
- Bonded Cats:Adopting a bonded pair of cats is beneficial as it ensures they have constant companionship, reducing loneliness and stress during transitions to a new home. Their pre-existing bond simplifies the introduction process and enhances their emotional well-being, leading to better socialization and fewer behavioral issues. Additionally, you save two lives, providing a harmonious and fulfilling environment for the cats and yourself.
Considering these factors, you can find a cat or cats that will fit seamlessly into your family and bring you joy for years to come.
Finding Your Feline Soulmate
You can check your area’s local shelters and rescue organizations to find your feline soulmate. If you need help figuring out where to start, PetFinder.com is a site that connects to various rescue organizations. They have detailed search options to help you find the cat you are looking for. You can search for your city or county. Here are some of the search options you can select:
- Breed
- Age
- Gender
- Good with cats, or dogs, or children
- Behavior
Hammond Veterinary Hospital’s Wellness Partnership Program
Preventative medicine reduces health risks and maintains your pet’s well-being. We understand rising costs can impact pet health care, so we are pleased to offer our Partnership Wellness Program. We offer annual membership for $99 per pet, which includes two complimentary exams. As a member, you’ll receive a 15% discount on all preventative health services (including vaccinations, heartworm and parasite testing, and dental) and a 10-15% discount on preventative prescriptions, products, and pet food. Visit our website to learn more about how our Wellness Partnership Program can help you with your newly adopted kitty.
Embrace Adopt a Cat Month: Give a Cat Their Forever Home
We encourage you to embrace the opportunity to give a cat their “furrever” home during Adopt a Cat month and experience the unconditional love and joy they bring. Partner with Hammond Veterinary Hospital to ensure your new furry companion stays healthy and happy through our Wellness Partnership Program.
Warm regards,
Dr. Jeff Hammond & Team
Hammond Veterinary Hospital