June is all about National Adopt A Cat Month!

June is all about  National Adopt A Cat Month! 

Perhaps you have one or two already or one recently passed away. Have you been considering adopting a new cat? If so, this month is the right time to do it.  The warm months bring on more kittens and this happens to be the busiest time for new kittens which makes the shelters busier than usual.  Get ready for a new kitty to keep you busy! If you’re not ready, you can still help out. 

Adding a New Cat to Your Home- 

• If you have had a cat in the past then you know what to expect and are really excited to get a new family member and start new memories.  Preparing your home for a new cat is important so they can acclimate quickly and with less stress.  Having a comfy bed, new litter pan, fresh toys and scratch pad are just the beginning.  Talking to your vet is a good idea as it could be a bit of a wait to get in for an appointment. Proper planning is important for both you and the new kitty.
  

• What if you have never had a cat before?   Your lifestyle can impact your new furry friend's life greatly so please think about this before you bring home a new cat.  Do you work from home? Hybrid?  In the office all day?  Travel for work? Student?  All of these scenarios can affect your cats stress level and even personality which can lead to potential issues.  If you don’t feel that you can give your cat the proper time and attention for a long happy life then please pass on the idea but don’t feel bad about it. 
  

• Do you already have another cat or pet?  Really think about how an additional animal can affect your current pet.  Bringing in a kitten with a senior cat isn’t fair for either and can really cause severe stress for that senior kitty. While you may think that they would like the company, the odds are they are content with the way things have been for years.
  

How else you can help if you can’t or don’t want to adopt a new cat- 

• Volunteering at a local animal shelter is a fun way to spend time with a variety of pets and give back to your community. Seeing all ages and personalities with different needs can help the pets waiting for a new home while giving you new experience. 
  

• Fostering a cat or two or some kittens is another way to see if you are really ready to take the next step.  Some shelters need a foster for short term, maybe only a weekend, while others need long term, while a cat finds a new home. Some shelters may need help for an ill kitty or even hospice care for end of life and spending the final time with them.  Fostering can give you insight into personalities and what you like or don’t like. 
  

• Donating goods or Supporting on social media can be a lifeline for a shelter. From bringing in kitty litter or food to sharing a post for a cat looking for a new home, these simple task can really make a difference to any shelter or charity.
  
  Good Luck with your new cat if you decide to adopt this month. Perhaps this month isn't the right time but your new furry friend can be adopted any month so don't feel pressure in June.   If you decide you aren't ready or can't have a cat, have fun with the alternative options and knowing you're helping them out!